Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) is a modular
construction method that enhances productivity and on-site safety
through the integration of
innovative technologies (Housing
and Development Board, 2024). The PPVC method utilizes volumetric modules that are prefabricated and prefinished with fixtures and fittings in an off-site factory before
being sent to the project site for assembly. This allows off-site module
manufacturing and on-site construction activities to proceed simultaneously. According to Building and Construction Authority
(2024), this approach has the potential to increase productivity by up to 40%, delivering significant reduction in both manpower and construction time.
By streamlining workflows and reducing dependence on traditional on-site
construction methods, PPVC is able to accelerate project delivery timelines and also lower overall project costs. In
addition to enhancing productivity, PPVC markedly
improves on-site safety
by shifting most of the construction
activities to a controlled factory
environment, reducing the number
of workers required at the
project site, thereby lowering the risk of accidents and enhancing overall
safety (Building and Construction Authority, 2024). This ensures that companies
are able to avoid legal complications and associated penalties that may arise
due to a breach of safety.
With its revolutionary features, the PPVC method outperforms traditional techniques
through its ability to enhance productivity and safety on-site, demonstrating
its excellence as an efficient
and risk-averse construction method.
First of all, PPVC enhances productivity by reducing construction time through streamlining work processes. For example, according to Chougule et al. (2023),
the use of modular technology
expedites the design process by up to 15% in comparison to conventional methods
as it leverages standardized module designs that are accessible through modular
libraries. Additionally, on-site construction activities occur together with
off-site manufacturing of the modules, which can decrease the time by 50% (Chougule et al., 2023). This
means that efficiency can be achieved because PPVC eliminates many of the
linear workflows inherent in traditional construction. Standardising designs reduces the need for collaboration with architects
and designers to come up with a design, which can be a time-consuming process. It is clear that PPVC is able to enhance productivity by providing a more efficient workflow, making it a better
alternative to conventional methods.*
In addition to enhancing productivity, PPVC improves the safety of workers on-site.
This is supported by Jaillon and Poon (2008), who found that workers’
safety has improved when the risks involved with working at height are eliminated and
shifted to controlled factory environments. In comparison to the
industry figures, case studies reveal a substantial decrease in accident
rates, with a 63% reduction, averaging 22 accidents
per 1000 workers (Jaillon and Poon, 2008). PPVC also minimizes on-site construction noise and
dust levels, creating a healthier and safer environment for workers. In fact, accident rates have been reduced because PPVC removes the need for high-risk on-site
activities, which diminishes the exposure of workers to dangerous situations. Additionally, the reduction of on-site
noise and dust levels creates
a more conducive and safer working environment for the workers,
reducing distractions and potential hazards. It is clear that PPVC enhances the overall safety
of workers on-site
by providing a safer working environment, considerably reducing the risks associated with traditional
construction methods.
Although PPVC offers
significant benefits in terms of productivity and safety on-site,
the transportation of the modules may pose challenges to organisations. Hwang et al. (2018) state that the delivery
of PPVC modules to construction sites typically requires the use of oversized heavy vehicles, which can slow down urban traffic and potentially
damage road infrastructure because of their bulky frame and weight. Hence,
local transportation authorities implement
traffic rules to strictly regulate
the movement of such vehicles. In Singapore, trips
involving oversized heavy vehicles must receive clearance three working
days in advance,
and the vehicles
must adhere to
the designated routes (OneMotoring, 2024). This shows
the importance of proper planning and consideration in the transportation of PPVC modules.
If transportation logistics are not thoroughly checked,
companies may encounter
issues such as vehicles being unable
to pass through areas with overhead bridges. Additionally, companies may face
legal complications with local authorities if they fail to obtain necessary
permits, ultimately hindering overall productivity and affecting project
schedules. Nevertheless, while there
are some limitations to the transport routes and the requirement for necessary
vehicle permits, early planning and collaboration with local authorities can
facilitate smoother transportation and minimise
disruptions without compromising overall productivity.
In conclusion, the use of PPVC is beneficial to the construction
industry, allowing companies to improve
their productivity and safety on-site
in ways that conventional
construction methods cannot
match. By leveraging these advantages, PPVC would be able to allow companies to achieve
faster project completion, positioning it as a revolutionary solution for the
future of construction.
References
*Building and Construction Authority. (2024, July 1). Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC).
https://www1.bca.gov.sg/buildsg/productivity/design-for-manufacturing-and-
assembly-dfma/prefabricated-prefinished-volumetric-construction-ppvc
Building and Construction Authority. (n.d.). Design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA):
Prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction. https://www1.bca.gov.sg/docs/default-source/docs-corp-
buildsg/ppvc_guidebook.pdf?sfvrsn=1a7b4580_2
Chougule, A.B., & Chothe,
O. (2023). Review
of time and cost analysis
for prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction (PPVC). In: Hau, K.K., Gupta, A.K.,
Chaudhary, S., Gupta,
T. (Eds.), Recent Advances in Structural
Engineering and Construction Management: Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering, 277, 937-949. Springer,
Singapore. https://doi-org.singaporetech.remotexs.co/10.1007/978-981-19-4040-8_76
Housing & Development Board. (2024, January 18). Prefabricated
Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC).
https://www.hdb.gov.sg/about-us/research-and- innovation/construction-productivity/prefabrication-technology
Hwang, B.G., Shan, M., & Looi, K.Y. (2018). Key constraints and mitigation strategies for prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction. Journal of Cleaner Production, 183, 183-193.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.02.136
Jaillon, L., & Poon, C. S. (2008).
Sustainable construction aspects
of using prefabrication in dense urban environment:
a Hong Kong case study. Construction
Management and Economics, 26(9),
953–966. https://doi.org/10.1080/01446190802259043
OneMotoring. (2024, November 29). Commercial vehicles. https://onemotoring.lta.gov.sg/content/onemotoring/home/driving/commercial-
vehicles.html#exceed_dimension
