Construction robotics: a systematic review of robot types, applications and human robot collaborations

Robotics in construction is increasingly recognised not only for enhancing productivity and efficiency, but also for its potential to reduce occupational safety and health risks by distancing workers from hazardous tasks. Despite these clear advantages, the industry still lags manufacturing in the widespread deployment of robotic systems. To understand how robots can be effectively deployed in real world construction settings, this review identifies three critical dimensions that shape integration: (i) robot types, (ii) task applications, and (iii) human robot collaboration (HRC) roles. Four research questions are formulated to guide the analysis, focusing on current technology use, suitability across task domains, collaboration patterns, and future deployment challenges. A total of 375 papers published between 2023 and 2025 were systematically analysised using the PRISMA method. Based on this corpus, we develop an integrated two-dimensional taxonomy that links robot classifications by function with construction task applications across lifecycle phases. The review reveals that most robots are concentrated in structural construction tasks, while planning, maintenance, and demolition phases remain underexplored. It also revealed that operator-led workflows dominate current practice, reflecting limited autonomy and readiness for full automation. These findings provide both researchers and practitioners with a structured foundation for modelling human robot workflows, designing OSH sensitive deployment strategies, and supporting more effective simulation environments. At a theoretical level, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of HRC in construction’s highly variable, unstructured settings, offering insights essential to achieving more scalable, integrated, and human-centric robotics in the built environment.