Robotic vest in UK first

A robotic vest is being trialled by Willmott Dixon at its Cardiff West Community High School development. The trial will be the first time the vest has been used in the UK.

Willmott Dixon teamed up with robotics firm, Ekso Bionics, to trial the high tech exoskeleton vest which will help protect supply chain partners working on the new school development in Cardiff.

Willmott Dixon is the first company in the construction industry to trial ‘EksoVest’ – an upper body exoskeleton vest that supports a worker’s arms during heavy lifting. The vest – which costs £5,650- has been funded by Eureka, Willmott Dixon’s central research and development fund.

The Cardiff site was chosen to trial the newly developed technology due to the range of technical activities required to complete the build.

Neal Stephens, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon Wales and South West, says: “We’re thrilled to be the first construction company in the UK to trial the EksoVest. The wellbeing of our people and supply chain is always our number one priority.

“The EksoVest technology should lead operatives to feel less exerted, meaning improved wellbeing and productivity.  This investment not only demonstrates to our supply chain the importance we place on health and safety, but we hope the development of the Eureka fund also shows Willmott Dixon’s enthusiasm for technology and innovation within the construction industry.”

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