Automation in construction requires safe control
The construction industry is undergoing a rapid transformation. More and more processes are being automated: from repetitive operations to robot-driven tasks and AI-assisted decision-making. Automation offers significant advantages in terms of speed, precision and efficiency. But at the same time, it brings with it a new layer of complexity – especially in terms of safety.
When automated systems fail, there can be major consequences: think damage to equipment, the environment or even human lives. This is why implementing safe control systems is not an afterthought, but a fundamental part of any construction automation project. A well-designed system automatically intervenes when deviations occur, drastically reducing the likelihood of incidents.
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Why secure control is indispensable in building automation
Automation systems are taking over an increasing amount of tasks from human teams. Yet they cannot operate without supervision. Safety-oriented control continuously monitors the process and intervenes when limits are exceeded.
Consider machines that overheat, overload or emit potentially harmful substances. Without adequate control mechanisms, these situations can escalate. Safety control ensures that systems automatically shut down or slow down when risks are detected. In many cases, it can even respond to staff proximity by temporarily shutting down processes to prevent human injury.
These systems are composed of multiple components, including sensors that monitor temperatures or movements, controllers that interpret anomalies, safety interlocks and emergency stops. Redundancy – the use of backups – ensures that even in the event of a failure, safety remains guaranteed. These types of components and processes are an integral part of our approach to developing reliable industrial control .
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What makes a security system truly reliable?
A good safety system is not an off-the-shelf solution, but customization. Each construction site, application or installation has unique risks. Therefore, an effective design always starts with a thorough risk analysis. Based on that, customized solutions are developed, tailored to the process conditions and legal requirements.
Essential components include SIL- or PL-certified sensors and controllers, smart interlocks and physical or digital emergency stop devices. Moreover, continuous inspection and maintenance is crucial: a safety system is only effective as long as it is functioning correctly. At Gerbin Control, we therefore support not only design and implementation, but also structural monitoring of critical systems.
A recent project in modular construction demonstrated this crystal clear. By integrating safety control with redundant sensor technology and automatic reset protection, the contractor was able to reduce the number of unplanned stops by 40%. At the same time, the confidence of shift supervisors increased as they gained real-time visibility into risks – without manual intervention.
The benefits of secure automation in construction
Developing safe automation systems not only provides greater peace of mind on the shop floor, but also tangible benefits to the construction process. For example, companies comply with applicable laws and regulations more quickly and easily, the risk of downtime is reduced, and investments in machinery remain better protected.
In addition, a reliable system contributes to a safe working environment. Fewer incidents means fewer injuries, less reputational damage and greater productivity. It also enables companies to embrace new technologies with confidence – because security is well embedded in the system design from the beginning.
Contact our experienced innovator
Cees Brasser
With more than 26 years of experience at the helm of Gerbin Control, Cees Brasser is your expert on panel construction for the machinery sector. Discover how his knowledge and insight can take your project to new heights. Get in touch now!
Building safe automation together
The construction industry is getting smarter, faster and more complex. This is precisely why it is essential that safety be the foundation of any automated process. At Gerbin Control, we design custom solutions that unite technology and safety. Not as an extra option, but as a starting point.
Want to know how we can support you in developing or upgrading secure operating systems? Get in touch – we’d love to help think about a solution that fits your project and environment.
