Building Information Modeling (BIM) emerged as a transformative force in the late 1990s and early 2000s, reshaping the way the construction industry approaches building design, construction and management. However, Hilti Group has recognised BIM not only as a tool for improving efficiency and sustainability but also as a critical enhancer of safety for both infrastructure and the individuals who build and occupy it.
The role of BIM is to facilitate superior collaboration and communication among all project stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, contractors, and owners, thus mitigating traditional gaps that may lead to inefficiencies and errors. That is why, when it comes to construction technologies, Hilti is leveraging BIM to deliver innovative solutions across design, engineering, prefabrication and installation processes – helping to maximise productivity, reduce costs and notably help enhance safety across all aspects of construction.
Safety of the building: Engineered fire protection
Fire safety is a concern in construction, essential not only for compliance with standards but also for the assurance of long-term building integrity and occupant safety. Hilti utilises BIM technology to enhance fire safety measures from the initial design phase, helping to ensure that optimal fire containment strategies are embedded in the building blueprint.
Hilti’s comprehensive fire protection approach includes:
- Firestop products: Advanced solutions specifically engineered to seal openings and joints in fire-rated walls and floors, helping to prevent the spread of fire, smoke and harmful gases.
- Firestop software: Applications that support specifiers and contractors in the selection, specification and documentation of firestop solutions, working to ensure compliance with all applicable codes and standards.
- Firestop services: Hilti extends its expertise beyond products by offering firestop engineering training, product training, and engineering judgements by certified personnel, to ensure that fire safety systems can be used in a particular situation.
By integrating these components through BIM, Hilti ensures that its firestop solutions are consistent, code compliant and fully traceable. BIM also facilitates better coordination with other trades, while optimising firestop installation to minimise waste and reduce both installation time and ongoing maintenance costs.
Optimising MEP support systems
The safety and functionality of Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) systems are crucial for any building’s operation, but the design, engineering and installation of MEP supports can be fraught with challenges due to the complexity of the systems involved. Hilti’s BIM-centric approach not only streamlines these processes but also enhances the safety of the workers tasked with the MEP systems installation.
By leveraging BIM, Hilti can design and engineer MEP supports with precision, which are then prefabricated in a controlled environment. This reduces the need for complex, risky tasks at the construction site, such as welding; working at heights to install ductwork; operating heavy machinery in tight spaces; and manual lifting and alignment of large components.
Utilising robotics for tasks such as overhead drilling, based on detailed digital designs, also significantly lowers the risk of accidents. For instance, the Jaibot – Hilti’s semi-autonomous construction robot – removes the need for workers to perform hazardous tasks, such as working at heights and handling heavy machinery. The Jaibot also includes an embedded vacuum system that controls dust and reduces exposure, providing an important health benefit for workers.
To add to this, Hilti’s impact wrenches are fitted with adaptive torque modules, which help ensure precise torque application and compliance with approvals, automating installation and documentation.
Extended applications of BIM in safety management
BIM’s capabilities extend beyond design and installation to encompass safety management throughout the lifecycle of a building. By creating detailed digital representations, BIM enables project managers to simulate and analyse potential safety issues before they become real problems on-site. This proactive approach not only helps in identifying risks but also in developing strategies to mitigate them effectively.
For instance, BIM allows for the virtual testing of emergency response strategies, enhancing building evacuation plans and safety protocols. This kind of simulation helps to ensure that buildings are not only safe to construct but also safe to inhabit and maintain over time.
Committed to training and support
To fully realise the benefits of BIM, Hilti provides comprehensive training and ongoing support to its customers. The company’s experts are not just versed in BIM technology, they are also skilled in its application to real world construction challenges. Additionally, Hilti offers regular workshops, webinars and on-site training sessions to ensure that all stakeholders can effectively utilise BIM technologies, helping to enhance safety and efficiency.
“Today, Building Information Modeling is seen as a significant technological advancement, supporting the transformation of the construction industry,” states Hilti. “That is why at Hilti we are dedicated to further incorporating BIM into our products, services and collaborations with customers. Our approach aims to contribute to a safer and more efficient construction environment. By strategically utilising BIM, we strive to provide innovative solutions that focus on enhancing the safety of buildings and supporting the professionals involved in their construction.”
Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.
Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.
