Real-time Pro-Active Safety in Construction

The primary goal of RT-269 was to demonstrate how existing technology can be used to record and warn construction personnel of the presence of hazards in real-time. Various devices were evaluated that warn construction personnel of the presence of potential hazards in real time. Other devices were evaluated that record location, proximity, and trajectory data of construction resources (i.e., workers, equipment, and materials) in real time. Field tests were done to evaluate application to construction operations and to assess worker receptiveness to the use of the technology using survey and interview techniques.

The research and field tests concluded that the personal and equipment protection devices were both effective at alerting personnel of the danger of close proximity to heavy equipment (improving situational awareness). The 3D visualization tracking technology was effective to monitor the locations of workers, equipment, and materials. Workers were generally receptive to wearing of the technology and acknowledge its potential to prevent incidents.

Additional research is recommended into several areas including factors that affect signal propagation and transmission, and worker reaction/acceptance of the devices.