Published July 10, 2023
From wearable technology to drones to virtual reality, many of the most talked about technologies of the day are finding their way onto jobsites to promote and improve safety. Here are some that are leading the way:
Safety Management Software
Construction safety management software brings all aspects of a safety program into one place for improved control over incident reporting; safety training compliance; safety inspection planning and follow-up; assessment and mitigation of jobsite risk; and documentation of certifications and other safety paperwork for workers and subcontractors.
Wearable Technology
Old safety standbys like hard hats, vests and safety glasses are being reengineered with high-tech gadgetry to help construction workers monitor their health, detect hazardous situations and avoid accidents.
While features vary by make and model, smart helmets can track vital signs; detect fatigue; provide warnings of moving hazards; monitor carbon monoxide levels; and detect falls and send emergency alerts.
Safety glasses and visored helmets can now provide augmented reality—such as hands-free display of building plans and guided work instructions.
Smart vests can be equipped with vital sign monitoring, LED lighting for improved visibility, sensors to detect high voltage and pull cords to summon emergency help.
Drones
Drones make site inspections safer by reducing falls and other hazards inherent in walking a job site. They also can be used to monitor as heavy materials are being moved or unloaded, and to maintain visual contact with workers in remote or especially hazardous work areas.
Drones can be used to build three-dimensional simulations of the jobsite so workers can be informed and trained about changing conditions over the course of construction.
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality
When used with wearable technology, Augmented Reality (AR) places a virtual image in front of whatever the wearer is looking at. Familiar examples include the head-up displays in fighter jets and the smartphone game Pokémon Go.
In construction, AR is being used to superimpose plans, safety instructions and other critical information in a worker’s field of view—allowing access to important information without interrupting work processes.
Virtual Reality (VR) has become the foundational technology for next-generation construction safety training programs. According to one such provider, Pixo, “VR construction training … has been proven to be extremely effective and meets OSHA safety requirements for the construction industry.”
Safety Apps
With just about everybody on the jobsite carrying their own smartphone, mobile apps are an obvious way to put safety in everyone’s hands.
Industrial Maintenance & Plant Operations magazine points to the Stay Safe app for tracking workers’ physical location and providing fast response in emergencies. It includes a panic button and an active “man down” feature if it senses a worker is in trouble.
Other apps in this space include iAuditor (audits/inspections); Safety Meeting App (OSHA documentation); and FieldLens (jobsite collaboration).
Machine Automation
Letting machines take over dangerous jobs from humans is hardly a groundbreaking concept, but it’s expanding in the construction fields.
Remote racking devices allow electricians to rack circuit breakers while safely outside the arc flash zone.
TyBOT replaces people in the back-breaking work of tying rebar.
The Hadrian X bricklaying robot can lay 200 bricks an hour, while SAM is a mason’s helper that supports its human partner by lifting bricks and applying mortar. Both devices are marketed for improved productivity, but they also help prevent repetitive strains and other injuries related to masonry.
Other examples include Canvas for finishing drywall; and MULE, from the same company as SAM, which provides lift-assist for all kinds of heavy objects.
Internet of Things (IoT)
Sensors that turn everyday items into internet-connected devices are now in use at construction sites for a variety of purposes, including:
- Environmental monitoring for temperature, humidity, air quality and noise levels—to reduce exposure to hazardous conditions and identify areas that require mitigation.
- Monitoring heavy equipment like bulldozers and front-end loaders to ensure they are being operated within safety guidelines.
- Controlling access to ensure that only authorized and properly trained personnel can get into restricted areas of a jobsite, such as elevated work platforms and electrical distribution panels.
- Securing building supplies from damage, toppling and theft.
Gear up for Safety
Best Supply carries a full line of safety gear and PPE. Contact us here with your safety concerns and we’ll help with the products to keep your team safe and productive.