Automatic creation of personalised virtual construction safety training using digital twins

Abstract

The construction industry faces persistent safety challenges, with many occupational accidents and fatalities. Virtual safety training methods often fall short in terms of realism. This article introduces a pioneering approach that exploits digital twins to create Virtual Training Environments (VTEs) tailored for construction safety. The Digital Twin for Construction Safety (DTCS) framework seamlessly integrates Building Information Modelling (BIM) models, schedules, resources, and hazard data into a prototype using the game engine Unity. It enables the generation of VTEs with minimal user interaction, empowering safety trainers to define personalised scenarios based on specific project parameters and training requirements tailored to the trainees’ needs. The evaluation of this approach through three distinct real-world projects and a case study with six trainees demonstrates its efficacy. Results indicate the DTCS framework’s ability to efficiently create VTEs independently of the project once a BIM model is available. Moreover, the framework provides meaningful feedback to the trainee by evaluating the performance using run-time data collection. The collected data promises use for several applications, but future research must validate its effectiveness. Beyond training, the study highlights the utility of VTEs in improving safety design and hazard mitigation strategies through data-driven insights.