Abstract
The application of tactile-based wearable devices to assist in navigation for people with low sight/low memory has demonstrated the feasibility of using such devices as a means of communication. Accordingly, a previous study in construction research investigated various parameters of tactile signals to develop a communicable system for potential application in construction hazard communication. However, the nature of construction limits the application of such devices to the body of construction workers, and it is important to understand sensor design parameters for improved communication, which has not been given significant attention yet. Therefore, this study aims to determine key design factors such as the number of motors, spacing between sensors and the layout of a tactile sensory system to be used for communicating construction hazards to workers. For this purpose, this study focused on identifying the number of motors based on extensive literature and the problem of construction safety as to hazard communication, determining the arrangement that allowed for effective delivery and perception of information with minimum effort. The researchers conducted two experimental studies: First, to determine the minimum spacing between vibration motors that allows for the identification of each individual motor with high accuracy; and second, to determine the layout of motors that is suitable for effective communication of multiple types of information. More importantly, the tactile-sensor configuration identified from this study allows the workers to learn the signal patterns easily in order to identify multiple types of information related to hazards. Using such a communication system on construction sites will assist in transmitting hazard-related information to workers, and thus, protect the lives of workers. Such wearable technologies enable the detection of individual-level hazards and prevent worker fatalities and severe injuries.
Highlights
The researchers first configured the ten vibration motors for both layouts using a minimum spacing of 2.5 inches
The reported construction worker fatalities and severe injuries indicate that construction sites are highly hazardous
In order to improve the hazard perception capability of construction workers, this study used a tactile-based system that allows workers to use the sense of touch on their backs to get warnings
Summary
The Bureau of Labor Statistics records indicate an increasing trend in worker fatalities since. Among the total worker fatalities in the US, the construction industry alone contributes to almost 20% of fatalities in private industry [2]. 60% of such fatalities in 2017 resulted from falls, strikes by objects, and electrocutions, as well as workers being caught in between objects (e.g., equipment); these are known as the fatal four in construction [2]. Transportation accidents accounted for 40% of the total worker fatalities in the same year [1]. These statistics indicate that fatal accidents are common in workplaces, and the passive safety measures adopted during construction are insufficient to prevent the consequences of such accidents.
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