How to get wireless internet on a construction job site
Getting secure and affordable connectivity for your remote or temporary construction site is easier than you think.
There’re a few things every job site needs: a qualified crew, up-to-date equipment and more recently, the internet. On today’s construction sites, connectivity is just as important as a power drill or backhoe. All projects require at least some network access for communications, compliance recording and project management. Like nearly every industry, construction and building are becoming more digitized and reliant on the internet for daily activities. However, unlike other business types, a job site poses unique challenges: it can be remote, impossible to secure a wired connection and is almost always temporary.
Why connectivity on job sites is a challenge
The industry is generally project-based but most assets such as vehicles, equipment and tools can be easily transferred between locations. Because the options for connectivity can vary between areas, it can be difficult for a company to find a standardized method of securing on-site internet. Unfortunately, this leads some to rely on unsecure or unreliable methods like public Wi-Fi or smartphone hotspots. Project sites need connectivity, but just as in the head office, it needs to be the right option.
Who needs Wi-Fi? Connectivity on the job
Nearly every on-site worker is equipped with a smartphone today, regardless of their role. One of the primary benefits is the facilitation of easy communication. Updates about safety issues, weather changes and schedules can be relayed to an entire crew without delay. Similarly, reports and inspections can be completed and filed on a device, helping to ensure any infractions are fixed more quickly. Perhaps most importantly, connectivity is needed in the mobile office trailer.
This temporary space is a critical part of any site, often serving as portable headquarters for the project. It’s also a hub for the communication of critical issues regarding safety, compliance, scheduling and more. Providing connectivity to this space in particular is crucial for any project.
Why not all connectivity options are created equal
Like any tool on a job site, not every available internet connection is a good fit. Often, a network is the last priority for a project manager leading to a scramble for connectivity at the last minute. Some rely on public
Wi-Fi, which can be unreliable and unsecure for sending confidential site documents. Others utilize their smartphones for a Wi-Fi hotspot. This connection can be slow and drain a device’s available data.
An easy solution for job sites
Construction locations have three main challenges when it comes to online connectivity: they’re temporary, sometimes remote or rural and unable to support a wired connection like other traditional business internet options. In recent years, more job sites are turning to a Wi-Fi option specifically designed for the industry and others like it. Wireless Business Internet allows locations to gain the high-speed connection required, with the flexibility and consideration needed for an active construction site.
How does it work?
1. A Rogers specialist will professionally install a small antenna on-site, attached to the roof of the mobile trailer for example, quickly and with minimal disruption to the operation.
2. The team can easily connect all devices including laptops, tablets and smartphones.
3. With an included static IP, staff can connect to the company VPN and enjoy a secure and fast connection.
Can Wi-Fi help tackle budget overruns and schedule delays?
While connectivity may be an afterthought for some site supervisors, budgets and schedules are always at the forefront. The average construction project takes 20% longer than projected to complete and runs up to 80% over budget. Though the factors contributing to those delays vary, a consistent challenge across the industry is communication. With up to hundreds of staff across a single site, it can be near-impossible to keep on top of delays, errors and changes. Having a consistent method of communication across on-site personnel, head office, regulation reporters and more can help ensure everyone is up-to-date on the latest news.