Additional Final Draft Reader Response

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