The project team has nicknamed the dog ‘Dave’ at Heathrow where Mace is refurbishing and updating mechanical and electrical services on a luggage and cargo transport tunnel.

Dave is a robot developed by Boston Dynamics equipped with a Trimble X7 scanner to provide 3D laser scans during work on the 1960’s tunnel.

The robot dog allows the project team to safely retrieve data from the building site which is then used alongside 3D models and augmented reality to track accuracy and progress on the construction work.

Dave is increasing safety by reducing trips, slips and accidents in hazardous, dark, or slippery locations. It is also improving efficiency on site as the scans taken by the robot are fast and accurate.

Mace will look to extend the technology across other major construction projects around the UK.

 Mark Reynolds, Group Chairman and Chief Executive said: “The introduction of our new robot colleague, Dave, at Heathrow is a fantastic demonstration of the future of our industry.

“Robots will never replace people in construction – but this pilot shows how they have the potential to drive greater efficiency, capture records digitally and improve safety and delivery.

“Passengers at Heathrow may never notice the difference – but hopefully they’ll be pleased to know Dave is working round the clock to make sure the airport runs as smoothly as possible in the future.

“The introduction of new technology is helping us collect important as-built data, whilst keeping our people safe in difficult locations, allowing them to focus on planning and delivering our projects more effectively.”