As we continue to make significant progress in technology it always comes at cost, particularly when implemented in the workplace.
The latest threat to the human workforce comes in the form of SAM, short for Semi-Automated Mason, which is theoretically capable of laying 3000 bricks per day, thus reducing construction work by by at least 500%.
Developed and now in use across the United States Of America, SAM is making its way to the United Kingdom and it could potentially put thousands of people out of work.
According to Futurism SAM can work about 500% faster than humans, which will greatly reduce labour costs.
Zero Hedge reports that SAM’s 3000 bricks per day ability means construction/building companies will only have to pay 4.5 cents (3p) per brick.
It cost seven times the amount with a manual workforce when considering a work force’s $15 (£10.85) hourly rate – plus benefits – as each worker lays 500 bricks.
Despite SAM’s unique capabilities it still needs a human operator, a builder needs to feed the machine bricks on its conveyor belt, which has to be picked up by SAM’s robotic arm smeared with mortar, and fixed onto a wall. Another worker is required to clean up any excess mortar left by SAM.
The quick and efficient work provided by SAM has created demand in the construction industry and has seen the model integrated into construction sites across America. Developers, Construction Robotics, are now in final negotiations to bring SAM over to the UK.
While various construction companies are eager to add SAM to their inventory it does place countless construction jobs at risk. Naturally, its introduction has been met with reluctance and resistance.
PixabayMany workers have pointed out there are many other complications of a construction site which machines cannot hope to comprehend yet.
While this is a setback in adding automated machines into workplaces it is by no means a no long-term obstacle.
SAM has proven that with the advancements made in technology any complications presented on a building site could soon be solved by a machine.
