Singapore Scales Up Robotics and Smart Tech in BTO Construction to Boost Productivity

SINGAPORE: The Republic is set to deploy robotics, automation, and standardised components across more Build-To-Order (BTO) construction sites from 2027, as the government pushes to accelerate housing delivery while addressing persistent labour constraints in the sector.

Speaking at the HDB Awards Ceremony on 25 September, National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat outlined a suite of measures aimed at lifting construction productivity. These include the wider deployment of screeding robots, smart hoists, and a new catalogue of precast components designed to cut project man-hours by up to 20 per cent.

“As we build more and build faster, we must also build smarter,” Chee said. “What matters is not how sophisticated the technology is, but whether it can help to solve practical problems on our worksites.”

What smart construction technologies are being trialled in Singapore?

The Housing and Development Board (HDB) has been piloting screeding robots that use laser-guided systems to level and smooth floors before tiles or vinyl are laid. This replaces conventional methods where workers manually set up level pegs, a labour-intensive process.

Two robots have been deployed across 80 flats in two BTO projects in Bukit Merah and Ghim Moh. From 2027, they will be trialled in at least four more projects to assess performance under varying site conditions, after which HDB will evaluate the potential for wider deployment.

Another innovation is the smart hoist, a temporary external lifting system that operates like a lift with floor-by-floor buttons. Equipped with sensors to detect obstructions and cameras to verify workers are wearing appropriate safety gear, the system allows a single worker to supervise up to three hoists. A conventional hoist requires a dedicated operator to manually steer it using a joystick.

“While this may sound like a relatively simple improvement, the manpower savings add up across many blocks and projects, leading to a sizeable overall increase in productivity,” Chee noted.

Smart hoists are expected to be used at roughly half of BTO sites tendered from 2027. Chee has instructed HDB to work towards deploying these technologies across all new BTO projects.

How is HDB standardising components to save time and costs?

On 28 September, HDB will launch a catalogue of precast components featuring detailed specifications and drawings for 17 standard items, including staircases and household shelters. This reduces the need for contractors to develop designs from scratch for every project, potentially saving up to 20 per cent in project man-hours.

While the catalogue provides greater consistency, HDB said consultants retain flexibility to design distinctive BTO projects. Variations remain available for components such as facades, bathroom units, columns, and beams.

The standardisation also strengthens supply resilience, as contractors can procure components from a wider range of suppliers.

What other productivity measures are being introduced?

Under the shortened time for completion scheme introduced in 2023, contractors tendering for selected BTO projects commit to completing them three months earlier. As part of the tender, they propose construction methods and technologies to improve productivity.

Around 10 projects currently fall under this scheme. One solution being implemented is the inloader, a heavy-duty transport vehicle with a hydraulic jack for loading and unloading precast components, reducing reliance on cranes.

HDB is also piloting an excavator for earthworks in Tengah that uses satellite positioning and digital terrain models for greater precision.

Which projects received recognition at the HDB Awards?

Thirty projects received awards for achievements in design, construction, engineering, and landscape. Two design consultants, LOOK Architects and 3PA, were recognised for innovative designs in the new estates of Berlayar and Mount Pleasant respectively. HDB noted that both firms thoughtfully integrated nature and heritage into their projects.

The design of Berlayar Residences drew on the Southern Ridges and waterfront, while Mount Pleasant Crest incorporated elements from the former Old Police Academy.

What does this mean for Singapore's construction sector?

The push towards automation and standardisation reflects a broader regional trend in which governments are leveraging technology to address structural labour shortages. For Singapore, the stakes are particularly high given the scale of its public housing programme and the government's commitment to reducing waiting times for new flats.

By embedding productivity gains into the construction process, HDB aims to deliver homes faster without compromising quality or safety. The approach aligns with Singapore's wider economic strategy of using technology to offset demographic constraints, a model that other ASEAN states with rapid urbanisation may find instructive.

As Chee put it, the goal is not technological sophistication for its own sake, but practical solutions that deliver measurable results on the ground. The coming years will show whether these innovations can scale effectively across the island-state's ambitious housing pipeline.