Anyone who works on a construction site every day knows the feeling: working overhead for hours on end, standing bent over for long periods while installing pipes, or lifting heavy loads. By the end of the workday, tired shoulders and a strained back take their toll. The Dutch technology company Skelex develops passive exoskeletons that support the body during this type of work.
The exoskeletons operate without batteries, motors, or software. A spring absorbs the force of gravity and reuses that energy during natural movements. This preserves freedom of movement while noticeably reducing the strain on the arms and back. That makes these devices suitable for a wide range of tasks, from installing systems to handling heavy materials.
Physical strain in the industry is a major issue: the absence of a single skilled worker can quickly cost a construction company tens of thousands of euros.
“At Skelex, our mission is to make work safer, easier, and smarter,” says Frank, director for Benelux. “Our technology reduces muscle strain, so that professionals can continue to do their jobs every day while staying healthy.”
Research confirms these findings. According to TNO, muscle tension in the shoulders of plasterers and ceiling installers decreased significantly, by about 30 percent. In the Netherlands alone, some 300 plasterers are already working with exoskeletons.
Skelex offers different models for specific working heights: the 360 FRONT provides support for tasks performed in front of the body, such as lifting and assembling; the 360 UP is designed for work above shoulder height; and the Edge relieves strain on the lower back when bending or leaning forward.
At BouwBeurs 2027, Skelex will showcase its exoskeletons so that visitors can experience firsthand how they work. According to the company, the trade show is a great opportunity to demonstrate the technology to professionals and employers who deal with physical strain.
Employers can identify ergonomic risks in the workplace in advance using the ErgoScan analysis, available through the ErgoScan AI app. Enter the code “SKELEX” when using the app.
You’ll find Skelex in Hall 9, Booth D057
