From English classes to painting robots: Behind an award-winning HDB BTO project

Hi-Tek Construction's MacPherson Weave BTO project aimed to improve worker welfare and resident satisfaction. The company provided English lessons for migrant workers from 7pm to 9pm, addressing language barriers that hindered communication with supervisors and managers. This initiative aimed to build confidence among workers, both at work and in their daily lives.

Beyond the workforce, Hi-Tek Construction prioritized resident support. Almost half of the MacPherson Weave residents submitted letters of compliments after moving in, praising the company's customer relations officers for helping with defect lists, offering renovation tips, and advising on tile and fitting care.

To ensure quality workmanship, Hi-Tek Construction had its own quality assurance and quality control team. Materials like tiles and sanitary fittings were stored under cover to minimize damage or discolouration.

Innovation was also a key factor at MacPherson Weave. Painting robots were used to spray rooms automatically, guided by laser scans. This technology increased productivity and safety by reducing the need for multiple workers to perform the task, thus minimizing exposure to noise and paint fumes.

Hi-Tek also introduced a mobile phone safekeeping initiative to minimize distractions and reduce safety non-compliances. The practice has since been made mandatory for all new HDB projects. The construction site's location posed challenges, including proximity to MacPherson MRT station and the Paya Lebar Air Base flight zone. Crane operations required coordination with the Republic of Singapore Air Force and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore.

Despite these obstacles, Hi-Tek Construction successfully navigated the constraints while maintaining high standards in quality and safety.