Progress and Prospects: Building Information Modelling (BIM) in Malaysia's Construction Industry

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a combined approach of technologies and processes that revolutionizes how buildings are designed, constructed, and managed virtually, enhancing collaboration. As the leading digital tool in construction, BIM is critical in improving workplace safety by identifying hazards and risks, thus elevating project safety standards. The study investigates the influence of BIM on safety and health in Malaysia's construction sector, focusing on its adoption by local firms and identifying specific health and safety issues related to its use. Data from the Department of Safety and Health (DOSH) and interviews with industry professionals informed our analysis. A quantitative methodology was adopted to pursue empirical investigation, wherein surveys were disseminated among contractors, consultants, and project managers. Data analyzed using SPSS revealed a significant increase in BIM usage in Malaysia's construction industry, rising from 13% to 48% among public and private sector respondents. This highlights a growing appreciation for BIM's benefits in construction. BIM is a crucial risk management tool in construction, notably reducing fatal accidents by enabling spatial clash detection, hazard anticipation, and implementing fall protection strategies. It also offers detailed parametric data for a building's entire lifecycle. Despite its effectiveness in large projects, BIM still faces challenges in broader adoption. High operational costs and time investment deter its implementation. Small to medium-sized enterprises often overlook BIM's long-term benefits, perceiving it as a cost rather than an asset. Barriers also include a lack of expertise, awareness, and stakeholder collaboration.