The government says it's injected HK$2.2 billion into the Construction Innovation and Technology Fund (CITF) to promote innovative construction methods and technologies.

It said as of the end of March, the fund had assisted some 1,330 companies, offering funding grants of about HK$1.68 billion.

News.gov.hk interviewed a representative from a local engineering equipment firm to explore how the funding was helping to improve site safety and construction efficiency.

The engineering equipment firm recently acquired a welding robot, primarily for connecting foundation piles.

Project Manager Ken Lai highlighted that the robot not only enhanced worker safety but also accelerated construction times.

“Traditional welders must work close to the workpieces, exposing them to harmful light and gases,” Lai explained.

“By using welding robots, operators can control them from a safe distance, effectively reducing health risks.”

Lai said such construction robots could help address this current manpower shortage.

“Our operators can control at least two robots simultaneously, significantly enhancing construction efficiency. This allows us to maintain high productivity levels even with a reduced workforce.”

Besides its welding robot, the company has acquired a painting robot, a transportation robot and a cutting robot. For these four purchases, it was granted funding in excess of US$3.3 million via the Construction Innovation and Technology Fund.

“Our robots have received up to 80 percent funding assistance from the CITF, which encourages us to explore more applications for construction robots and drive innovation in the industry,” said Lai.

Established in 2018, the CITF has channelled US$2.2 billion in government funding towards promoting innovative construction methods and technologies.

Its objectives include enhancing productivity, improving construction quality, increasing site safety and boosting environmental performance.

The Construction Industry Council advises the government on the fund’s operations and participates in funding approvals.

Its Executive Director Albert Cheng said over 60 percent of applications for funding fell in the categories of building information modelling and advanced construction technologies.