How technology is improving health and safety in the construction industry
In this article, we discuss how technology is playing a big role in improving the health and safety of the construction industry worked. Know what new innovations it has brought and how it has made life better.
Construction sites are one industry in particular where incidents can occur almost regularly, however, this does not need to be the case. Safety needs to be at the forefront of people's minds to improve the health of workers and give them peace of mind when turning up to work. Advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence, drones, induction apps and wearable devices are becoming more widely available helping to improve health and safety in the construction industry.
Over the years technology has been greatly improved and is present in everyone's day to day life. Although technology at times may have a negative reputation, within a range of applications it does more good than harm, especially in terms of health and safety on building sites.Health and safety improvements
Artificial intelligence assists with decision making
Artificial intelligence is growing in popularity in a range of different fields including within the construction industry, it helps to inform decision-makers to improve aspects of safety. Whether that be through planning, project lifecycle or site management. AI uses software to analyse a job site for any safety violations or risks present, as well as look at previous projects and seek out more efficient and cost-effective solutions. AI is much quicker at predicting outcomes and drawing insights than any human, hence its rising position within many industries. Helping to keep workers safe by putting actions in place to prevent issues from arising. Wearable devices
One of the most widely used pieces of technology to improve health and safety is wearable devices. These have been influenced by the likes of heart monitors and fitness trackers and are now being incorporated into workers clothing and accessories. Wearable devices include:
Sensors can be installed into these devices to help to detect any hazards or dangerous gases, monitor a workers heart rate or temperature for symptoms of exhaustion. This helps to reduce any injuries or issues from arising. This sort of technology can be connected to a workers phone, highlighting how it is quick to implement and how it's cost-effective. Drones
Originally used for military purposes, drones are becoming more widely used in a range of areas, including for health and safety in the construction industry. They can capture video footage that a person can view in real-time. Drones can fly up to a high level and are revolutionising how inspections are conducted. They can fly and scan whole areas, even multi-story buildings, to monitor work quality as well as fit into small spaces, avoiding the need for a worker to risk their safety.
Workers can control the drone remotely, therefore increasing the safety of workers as they can stay on the ground or away from potentially dangerous sites until risks are assessed. Drones are highly flexible in their usage, being utilised in a range of different applications. These systems are also being trialled to transport equipment and tools across sites to reduce workers having to constantly lift heavy equipment. They can also have sensors attached to them to alert workers about harmful chemical leaks. Instead of replacing people, these are used to assist workers, boost productivity and improve safety.
The use of technology and its possibilities are limitless for both businesses and in people's personal lives. Within the construction industry, it is particularly important in helping to improve health and safety. With more systems becoming more widely available and implemented in businesses, this will help to reduce the risk of injuries, increase productivity and boost employee satisfaction.