DEWA tests wearable exoskeletons to benefit construction staff

Exoskeletons will be used by those performing manual tasks in order to protect their health and safety and boost productivity DEWA tests wearable exoskeletons to benefit construction staff.

The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is testing wearable robotic exoskeletons, developed by SuitX – an American firm specialised in bio-technology and exoskeletons for medical and professional use.

DEWA intends to use exoskeletons for staff performing manual tasks such as manufacturing, construction, assembly, wiring, loading and unloading, automotive workshops, among others.

The initiative aims to protect staff and workers, boost productivity, and enhance accuracy, which is in line with DEWA’s commitment to enhance the health and safety of its staff with the latest technologies and tools to help them perform fieldwork efficiently.

Commenting on the initiative, the managing director and chief executive officer of DEWA, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, said: “Our wise leadership attaches great importance to the health and safety of Dubai Government employees and society members. At DEWA, the health and safety of our employees are our top priority. Therefore, we provide a healthy work environment according to the highest standards using the latest global technologies.

“DEWA’s initiative to test wearable robotic exoskeletons supports our strategy to adopt Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies such as AI and robotics. This supports the Dubai 10x initiative, which mandates the Government of Dubai to be a global leader that is 10 years ahead of all other cities through government innovation and the reformation of traditional work mechanisms.”

Al Tayer also pointed out that using this technology in fieldwork supports DEWA’s vision to become a globally leading sustainable innovative corporation.