The virtual TOP inspection session in progress at JTC semiconSpace (Picture: JTC)
SINGAPORE (EDGEPROP) - Two industrial projects have successfully undergone virtual temporary occupation permit (TOP) inspections piloted by JTC and the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). The virtual inspections were conducted for JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul in April 2021 and JTC semiconSpace in Tampines Wafer Park in September 2022. The projects subsequently received their TOP in May 2021 and October 2022 respectively.
Instead of a conventional physical TOP inspection, the BCA inspector and project team conducted the inspection process virtually using 3D data compiled through 360-degree photo captures and laser scanning technology.
JTC Logistics Hub @ Gul (Picture: JTC)
JTC Corporation says the virtual process can reduce the time and manpower required for inspections by up to 30% for both the project team and inspection officers. Following the pilot inspections, JTC and BCA have been working together to develop virtual TOP guidelines for JTC projects, which are expected to pave the way for an industry framework for wider adoption.
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“BCA is developing a set of technical guidelines for virtual TOP requirements for the industry, learning from the experience of the pilot trials with JTC and other stakeholders. We will share the details when ready,” says Darren Lim, group director of audit and inspection at BCA.
JTC semiconSpace (Picture: JTC)
Tan Chee Kiat, group director, engineering, JTC, says JTC is continually working on digitalising its construction processes. "We are excited that the virtual TOP pilot is successful and look forward to implementing it to all JTC projects," he adds.
In addition to TOP inspections, JTC states it implements virtual technology in construction site management. 360-degree reality capture solutions are used for coordination, progress tracking, documentation and reporting by site teams across various periods. Initial trials indicate potential man-hour savings and productivity gains of up to 50% across the construction value chain.
To capture savings and proliferate the use of reality capture technologies in the industry, JTC has launched a tender to use such technologies at all JTC-managed projects.
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