Abstract
A proximity warning system to detect the presence of a worker/workers and to warn heavy equipment operators is highly needed to prevent collision accidents at construction sites. In this paper, we developed a robust construction safety system (RCSS), which can activate warning devices and automatically halt heavy equipment, simultaneously, to prevent possible collision accidents. The proximity detection of this proposed system mainly relies on ultra-wideband (UWB) sensing technologies, which enable instantaneous and simultaneous alarms on (a) a worker’s personal safety (personal protection unit (PPU)) device and (b) hazard area device (zone alert unit (ZAU)). This system also communicates with electronic control sensors (ECSs) installed on the heavy equipment to stop its maneuvering. Moreover, the RCSS has been interfaced with a global positioning system communication unit (GCU) to acquire real-time information of construction site resources and warning events. This enables effective management of construction site resources using an online user interface. The performance and effectiveness of the RCSS have been validated at laboratory scale as well as at real field (construction site and steel factory). Conclusively, the RCSS can significantly enhance construction site safety by pro-actively preventing collision of a worker/workers with heavy equipment.
Highlights
Occupational injuries occurring in the construction sector are a global issue, and the construction industry is a hazardous sector in which occupational accidents frequently occur [1]
For the prevention of collision accidents at construction sites, a pro-active proximity warning system to detect the presence of worker/workers, performing their duties in the close vicinity of heavy equipment, and to warn the operator is highly needed
Proximity sensing technologies include ultrasound, radar, cameras, RFID, UWB, and GPS were used in the research
Summary
Occupational injuries occurring in the construction sector are a global issue, and the construction industry is a hazardous sector in which occupational accidents frequently occur [1]. The dynamic nature and simultaneous involvement of many resources in work zones leads to work zone complexity [3]. Such conditions can lead to collision accidents, incurring the risk of personal injuries. Among the several types of industrial accidents, collision accidents are the major cause of fatalities [4,5]. NOISH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) has identified the common factors responsible for industrial collision accidents [6]. The most significant cause of collision accidents in work zones is the limited visibility or associated blind zone of heavy vehicles [7]. There should be an active proximity detection and warning system to ensure the safety of workers from collisions
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