Abstract

ALUMBUGU, Polycarp; SHAKANTU, Winston; TSADO, Abel  and  OLA-AWO, Wasiu. Efficient utilisation of automation in construction materials-handling processes. Acta structilia (Online) [online]. 2022, vol.29, n.2, pp.33-57. ISSN 2415-0487.  http://dx.doi.org/10.18820/24150487/as29i2.2.

There is a limited understanding of automation in construction materials-handling processes utilised by manufacturing firms in Nigeria. This article evaluates the level of utilisation of automation in construction materials-handling operations by manufacturing firms in North-Central Nigeria, to improve operational efficiency and reduce operating costs. Using a case study research design, quantitative data (observation guide with measurements) were collected from 32 purposively selected construction-material manufacturers. A total of 72 customers' orders were observed and recorded to be representative of deliveries from the sampled (n=32) manufacturers' warehouses to other terminals. The descriptive method of data analysis was employed using percentages and results presented in a form of bar charts. The study reveals low-level utilisation of automation in the combined processes of order picking, storage, loading, and offloading of material. These imply increasing material costs and causing a delay in delivery. The article concludes by providing construction-material manufacturers with areas that require automation to optimise material-handling operations. A recommendation is made for further study to explore why automation is not utilised despite its advantage.

Keywords : Automation; construction materials; efficiency; material handling.

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