Australia’s economic growth and development has been largely dependent upon the construction industry being (and staying) strong. It is fascinating to try and understand the way in which the construction industry works and to apply certain analyses to better understand how the construction industry functions. A major way in which it is possible to analyse the construction data is to look at the machinery used. As an example, crane indexes are a way for us to look at the scale and location of projects. It’s interesting to note, for example, that of the cranes in Melbourne, 85% of the cranes are being put to use in residential developments - including student accommodation.
Crane use is growing
There has been a boom in the number of tower cranes being used in Melbourne’s commercial construction industry since October 2015. This is indicative of the growth that exists in the overall construction industry - particularly in Melbourne, but it also points towards a growing number of smaller tower cranes which have been produced specifically to target this growing sector. Much of the growth that is occurring in Melbourne is based around areas like Doncaster, Box Hill and Whitehorse - with the northside getting a look in as well; Brunswick East is flourishing as a suburb of interest and construction is pushing ahead to keep up with demand for residencies.
You can’t stop progress
The use of tower cranes is increasing, and two of the most recent development projects include projects at Fisherman’s Bend and Footscray’s Joseph Road Precinct. The way in which cranes have played a role in enhancing and furthering the construction industry is huge, and it must be said that advances in technology and safety have really helped to bring cranes into the forefront. The importance of crane safety is tantamount to the success, and there have been a number of innovations which have made cranes and the construction industry safer. Let’s take a look at a couple.
- Better technology = safer sites. Where once you had to measure distances with a tape measure, you can now use station instruments to accurately measure practically anything.
- Advances in technology = less people. There used to be around 1,500 people on a worksite during the 1940s, but now you’ll be lucky to find 150 people thanks to technology and labour saving devices.
- Praise be to OSHA. While the construction industry is still potentially dangerous, the enforcement of rules and regulations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have made things a lot safer.
Technology and safety are hugely important on building sites nowadays. Contact us today to find out about how we can work with you on your next project.
