Site Inspection Research Articles

Geospatial-based Mining Geometry Analysis to Improve Operational Efficiency of PT AMM Jobsite Mifa Bersaudara (2024)

Coal mining activities require the establishment of good and correct mine geometry to support effective and safe operations. However, many companies face challenges in ensuring that the geometry formed conforms to set standards. This research highlights the limited use of UAV technology in mine geometry optimization. This research aims to analyze geometry shaping at mine sites using geospatial data and raise awareness of the importance of good geometry in mining. The methods used include a combination of geographic information systems (GIS) and aerial surveys with UAVs. The mine geometry information was presented in map form to improve understanding of the geometry formation at each mine site. The results showed a 14% increase in geometry achievement, from 67% to 81%, after the application of the geospatial-based mine geometry information map. This reflects a significant increase in the formation of geometry in accordance with applicable rules. This finding shows the great potential of utilizing geospatial methods in the mining industry to improve the achievement of good geometry. In addition, this research can improve mine safety, the effectiveness of mine site inspections, and more organized repair planning, thus providing practical benefits to PT AMM's operations.

The River Ythan Navigation, Aberdeenshire

The River Ythan in Aberdeenshire is the only natural inland waterway in northern Scotland. It was navigable for about 10km from Newburgh, the port for Ellon since 1276, to the Meadow of Waterton, the landing place for Ellon. The peak of fluvial traffic was in the late 18th to early 20th centuries during the agricultural improvements for the import of manure fertiliser, bones, guano and coal, and the export of grain. Cargos were brought by coasters for 2.5km upriver to Newburgh where they were transhipped into lighters, which were sailed, poled or towed by a tug upriver to Meadow of Waterton. This article describes the harbour works, now largely demolished, by means of site inspections made from 1984 to 1986 and describes the history of this little-known example of fluvial transport, and the history of Newburgh as a coastal port. The Newburgh Quay at Culterty was built in 1842 by Mr Robert Black, a local shipowner, and is well preserved although the original buildings have been replaced by modern houses. The nearby Inches Pier was built by The Aberdeen Lime Company sometime between 1842 and 1866 on a small tidal islet. There was a long wooden pier to the low tide mark in the river channel, and a short causeway to the shore on the north side of the Foveran Burn. The pier was abandoned in c 1923 after the company’s coaster sank, and there are scant remains now. Docks were built at Meadow of Waterton probably in 1842 by Mitchell & Rae, agricultural and coal merchants, fertiliser manufacturers and shipowners (1840–1977). They consisted of two docks perpendicular to the river with warehouses. The East Dock was 30–49m long and 9m wide, and the West Dock was 61m long and 9m wide. The docks fell into disuse in 1924 and were infilled in the 1970s and 1980s, with no trace now. The upper navigation was closed in 1924, replaced by motor transport, while Newburgh continued to be used as a coastal port until 1968.

Environmental Management Practices and Sustainable Green Concrete Use in Malaysia's Construction Industry: Challenges, Benefits, and Future Directions

This review examines the environmental management practices (EMPs) employed within Malaysia's construction sector, with a particular focus on sustainable practices and the adoption of green concrete, including fly ash, rice husk ash, and palm oil fuel ash varieties. The study identifies key challenges, such as low awareness, high costs, weak legal enforcement, and the underdevelopment of green materials in the country. To address these issues, the report proposes solutions such as capacity-building programs, government incentives like tax breaks and grants, regular site inspections, and investment in research and development of green materials. The review also assesses the advantages and limitations of different green concrete types used in Malaysia. The aim of this study is to enhance sustainability efforts and reduce the environmental impact of construction activities through greater awareness, stronger regulatory support, and commitment from all stakeholders. Implementing greener concrete and EMPs is expected to not only mitigate environmental concerns but also yield long-term economic benefits for Malaysia.

Using Photogrammetry and Deviation Analysis to Conduct Quantitative Monitoring Surveys of WWII Sites in the Pacific

In 2012 a program to investigate the management of underwater cultural heritage (UCH) related to the WWII battle for Saipan was developed with several collaborative partners. The program was conceptualized in response to the creation of the WWII Battle for Saipan Underwater Heritage Trail that launched in 2010 (McKinnon and Carrell in J Maritime Archaeol 10(1):11–27, 2015). With the creation of the trail there became a need to monitor and record both the benefits and impacts of promoting visitation at UCH sites. The monitoring program began on a five-year interval and included archaeological site inspections and the collection of in situ conservation data in 2012 and 2017. In 2017, as photogrammetric survey data was advancing and becoming more useful, it was added to the monitoring program. Again in 2023, site inspections, in situ surveys, and photogrammetric surveys were undertaken providing a total of 15 years of data at five-year intervals. This data has proved invaluable for recording both qualitatively and quantitatively how these WWII submerged sites are changing over time. This article reports on the development of photogrammetric surveys and the use of deviation analysis to demonstrate natural and cultural changes on UCH sites of a WWII battlefield from 2017 to 2023.

Product Commercialisation Training for Tenants Widyatama Business Incubator (WIBI)

This study examines the pivotal role of the Widyatama Business Incubator (WIBI) in supporting MSMEs and students in enhancing their businesses through essential knowledge and training programs. WIBI's Community Partnership Programme offers training in product commercialization, HR development, SNI certification, K3L compliance, and IPR management by addressing human resource management, business licensing, and technology optimization challenges. The six-month program encompasses site inspections, coordination, training, guidance, and evaluation, enabling WIBI to standardize tenant products, improve HR quality, and ensure compliance with national standards. The program's success in facilitating the growth and success of startup ventures demonstrates the significant contribution that WIBI makes to nurturing technology-based entrepreneurship and fostering innovation within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Death by Frostbite: From Theory to Reality: A Case Report

Background: When the body temperature falls below 35 °C, a condition known as hypothermia occurs. This renders it impossible to regulate the body temperature and produce heat. In these cases, death is due to a cessation of vital functions and is triggered by a body temperature below 25 °C. A multidisciplinary approach is typically required when hypothermia is suspected to combine circumstantial evidence, external examination, autopsy, microscopic and biochemical findings, and other data useful to assess the diagnosis of fatal hypothermia. Post-mortem diagnosis of death by hypothermia frequently presents a medico-legal dilemma. Methods and Results: The authors present a case of hypothermia in which site inspection, autopsy, and histological examination simultaneously revealed the forensic and anatomopathological characteristic findings of hypothermia with some peculiar evidence: paradoxical undressing, thanatochronological phenomena, frost erythema, polyvisceral congestion and Wischnewski spots, and subnuclear vacuolization of renal tubular epithelial cells.

Anomaly detection of cracks in synthetic masonry arch bridge point clouds using fast point feature histograms and PatchCore

Management of ageing masonry arch bridges entails periodic site inspections to identify signs of potential structural degradation. Previous research has focused on detecting surface cracks from images. This paper develops an alternative approach where cracks are identified from point clouds via geometric distortions. An image-based anomaly detection method called PatchCore is customized for 3D applications for this purpose. First, Fast Point Feature Histograms (FPFH) are used to extract geometric features. Then PatchCore is applied on synthetic point clouds with crack labels, generated using 3D finite element modelling (FEM) and graphical modelling. Results show that the proposed method can capture surface and internal cracks in arches. Analyses show that the method is robust against measurement noise, initial damage and masonry surface roughness, and can be applied to other bridge components. Limitations of the method in detecting small changes in curvature and in-plane geometric distortions are highlighted for further improvements.

Fast and Efficient Drone Path Planning Using Riemannian Manifold in Indoor Environment

This paper introduces an innovative dual-path planning algorithm rooted in a topological three-dimensional Riemannian manifold (T3DRM) to optimize drone navigation in complex environments. It seamlessly integrates strategies for both discrete and continuous obstacles, employing spherical navigation for the former and hyperbolic paths for the latter. Serving as a transformative tool, the T3DRM facilitates efficient path planning by transitioning between discrete and continuous domains. In uncertain environments with unpredictable obstacle positions, our methodology categorizes these positions as discrete or continuous based on their distribution patterns. Discrete obstacles exhibit random distributions, while continuous obstacles display symmetrical patterns with continuity. Leveraging topological metrics, the T3DRM efficiently classifies these patterns for effective path planning. The findings of this research demonstrate the efficiency of path planning based on classified obstacle positions, enabling swift and efficient drone navigation. This research introduces a pioneering application of a T3DRM, accelerating drone navigation in uncertain environments through a dual approach that simultaneously transforms navigation in primal and dual domains. By enabling spherical and hyperbolic navigation concurrently, the T3DRM offers a comprehensive solution to discrete and continuous path planning challenges. The proposed approach can be used for various indoor applications, especially for warehouse management, surveillance and security, navigation in complex structures, indoor farming, site inspection, healthcare facilities, etc.

Road Site Inspection and Measures to Avoid Further Deformation

Strength and stability of the roadbed and engineering structures in permafrost conditions and deep seasonal freezing of soils always remain complex scientific, technical and technological problem in construction and reconstruction of roads in northern regions. Particularly important is the spread of subgrade subsidence during construction and further operation and maintenance of roads in these regions. The road destruction is mostly caused by both global warming and geological and hydrogeological conditions.To prevent the deformation development, it is necessary to provide a number of special engineering measures to prevent thawing of permafrost soils or strengthen supra-permafrost layers of foundations. The purpose of the work is to study methods for eliminating deformation of the road bed in permafrost and choosing the main method for eliminating subsidence of the road.The article discusses several ways to solve the problem of eliminating subsidence on of the federal highway. Options for reconstruction of the roadbed are considered. These are different methods of thermal stabilization, i.e., horizontal (sloping) thermal stabilization system with inclined thermal stabilizers, temporary vertical thermal stabilizers for pre-construction freezing of foundation soils, and hybrid thermal stabilization system (horizontal and vertical thermal stabilizer in one product). A method is proposed for stabilizing the road base by installing soil-cement piles. The main advantages of and disadvantages the methods are noted and cost assessment is made. A conclusion is drawn on the effectiveness of different methods to restore the subgrade structure in order to ensure the road base stability. The main method is elimination of subsidence by stabilizing the road base with installation of soil-cement piles.

Simulacija procesa izdavanja uporabne dozvole

In this paper, a discrete simulation model was developed for the certificate of occupancy (CO) for certain buildings issuance process in the Republic of Croatia. The model demonstrates the multistage nature of the process, with site inspections being the most time-consuming stage and a potential bottleneck. The model also shows that senior professional associates have the highest workloads. A what-if analysis was conducted to simulate the failure of the eDozvola system and to demonstrate the significant impact of such an interruption. A cost analysis of the CO issuance process demonstrated the potential for cost savings and efficiency gains through process optimization. Thus, simulation modelling can significantly improve the CO issuance process, resulting in cost savings, increased efficiency, greater stakeholder satisfaction, and better decision-making.

Protection of groundwater resources from multi-hazards: An integration of risk assessment and watershed management

The improving groundwater resource protection depends on aligning contamination risk mapping with aquifer protection measures. However, existing methods often fail to align with aquifer protection goals, hindering practical implementation. The study demonstrated integrating vulnerability assessment, hazard evaluation, and groundwater protection initiatives using an L-Matrix approach. Testing this model in a well-documented watershed with multiple hazards to illustrates its applicability, providing a reference for similar scenarios. The risk was assessed through evaluation of aquifer vulnerability, using the DRASTIC method, coupled with the evaluation of a hazard potential considering industrial, livestock/agriculture and urban infrastructure sources in separate. The L-Matrix diagrams consisted of cartesian representations of V versus H, ranging from 0 to 1, segmented into four quadrants bounded by the cut-off lines V = 0.5 and H = 0.5. The quadrants were then linked to aquifer protection measures, with site inspection (high V and H), groundwater monitoring (low V and high H), land use planning (high V and low H), and tolerable expansion of hazardous activities (low V and H). The Paraopeba River basin was used as test site. Mining areas are abundant in this basin and were allocated high values of H and low to high values of V, requesting implementation of groundwater monitoring and periodic inspection of mining sites, even more because groundwater contamination with iron could be clearly associated with the presence of mine-tailings. In the results, it was observed that the DRASTIC vulnerability map of the aquifers has a mean vulnerability around the central value (V = 0.48 ± 0.08). Regarding the distribution of hazards, the average rounds to the value for to (Hindustry = 0.41 ± 0.37, Hagriculture = 0.33 ± 0.09 and Hinfrastructure = 0.27 ± 0.14). Thus, it is noted that for industrial activities, the risk of contamination could be moderate to high, while for agricultural and livestock activities, the risk lies between low and moderate contamination impact.

Augmented reality for enhanced documentation and anchor inspection reporting in conventional tunnelling

This study explores the feasibility of Augmented Reality (AR) technology for efficient quality inspection documentation on tunnel construction sites. Conventional tunnel construction relies heavily on paper-based documentation processes, leading to potential errors and increased documentation and site inspection time requirements. Introducing AR as a digital tool offers a promising solution to address these challenges. The paper identifies potential use of AR for tunnel inspection reports. The methodology involves Design Science Research, including prototype development and a case study in a tunnel environment. The findings of the case study show that the developed AR prototype facilitates quality management and speeds up documentation processes compared to the current paper-based solutions. Despite some input detection issues and current hardware limitations, the approach presents a promising and robust solution suitable for real-world environments.

Nasal Septum Perforation Repair: Simplicity and low Morbidity Using the Temporalis Fascia and Silicone Films.

Aim: We present a new, simple, and effective method for the closure of nasal septal perforations based on prolonged isolation of the surgical site. Nasal septal perforation usually results after rhinological surgical operations, primarily to correct septum deviation. When symptomatic, conservative and surgical treatments are required. Current techniques more often attempt direct mucosal closure by mobilizing local nasal mucosal flaps with or without interposed grafts. The reported success rates are sufficiently high approaching ≥ 90%. Method: Our current practice includes the insertion of a temporalis fascia graft between the septal mucosal flaps to cover the perforation, avoiding any effort to achieve mucosal closure. Instead of using sophisticated techniques and multiple synthetic grafts, we propose that the entire septum remains protected after perforation repair for 6 weeks between two thin silicone sheets which permit surgical site inspection and mucosal regrowth. We present our experience with 10 consecutive patients, two of whom had fairly large defects. Results: All cases, except one, had a successful outcome with complete closure of the defect after one year's follow up. No serious complications were reported and the silicone sheets were well tolerated by the patients. Conclusion: Our method is simple and consequently fast, resulting in high success rates, low morbidity, and high tolerance from the patients.

Investigation and analysis of lightning mass casualty incident in a Ugandan village

On 28 August 2020, the press reported ten children killed and four injured by a lightning strike while they were playing soccer near Odramacaku trading center, a small town close to the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In October 2020, less than two months after the incident, the African Centres for Lightning and Electromagnetics Network (ACLENet) sent a team to make a detailed investigation through interviews and site inspection. Four survivors had sustained injuries, physical and psychological, many with potentially life-long medical after- effects and disabilities. Some local people connected spiritual connotations to the incident. Local officials and community members expressed frustration with the government's lack of acknowledgment and response to the disaster despite the new district structure for disaster response initiated in response to the United Nations Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction to which Uganda is a signatory.

Oględziny miejsca wypadku przy pracy. Cz. 2

This publication is the second part of the article systematizing the practical aspects of conducting inspections of workplace accidents. It presents issues related to the general principles of site inspection, as well as documenting the course of this evidentiary activity. The rules of conducting the inspection of the scene of the accident were analyzed. Then, the issues of documenting the inspection of the scene of the event were subjected to a detailed analysis, presenting the issues related to the protocol of the inspection of the scene, photographs and forensic sketches, as well as audiovisual documentation.

Moving automated compliance checking to the operational phase of the building life-cycle: analysis and feasibility study in the UK

Construction regulations ensure a base level of safety of built assets. Formal checking of built assets against regulations happens at defined points in their life-cycle, and often there is limited automation involved. The movement towards digitising and automation elements of physical site inspections paves the way towards a whole life-cycle approach for compliance checking. This paper explores whole life-cycle compliance checking. It does this by extending current checking processes which are common in the design and construction phases into the operational phase of the building life-cycle, proposing that the best way to achieve this is through automated/semi-automated data capture and analysis. To test the feasibility of this concept, this paper will review existing academic literature, analyse existing regulations and conduct proof of concept testing. This paper has found that the concept of whole-lifecycle compliance checking is becoming increasingly important to better monitor and assure high risks elements of the built environment. When applied to the operational phase, it, however, becomes impractical and expensive when relying on solely manual inspections. Furthermore, there is a significant quantity of viable use cases for this approach and that there are viable technologies to leverage them.

A Model Public-Private Partnership Students’ Hostel for Higher Institutions in Nigeria

This paper examined the techno-economic viability of a 50-room students’ hostel in Nigerian Universities, as a technical solution to the student housing infrastructural deficiency in the universities. Technical data were obtained through literature, market sampling, questionnaire and site inspection. An engineering economic project analysis framework was used. The study determined a 50-room appropriate housing hostel for students in Nigeria Universities, with a projection of 20 two-bedded rooms and 30 three-bedded rooms. Technical/economic requirements include an initial investment of ₦151,120,155 million, an annual expenditure of ₦3,610,000 million and an annual revenue of ₦15,240,000 million. Profitability Indices include Net Present Value of ₦94,688,682 million, with payback period of 12 – 13 years. About 73.3% of the respondents were willing to pay and stay in the private hostel, out of which 94.4% were female students. The study concluded that the 50-room students hostel infrastructure was technically and economically viable, and a suitable template for Nigeria Universities.

A Review of Biophilic Design Concepts in Hotel Architecture

Incorporating natural materials and features into the built environment is the goal of the creative approach known as biophilic design, which aims to link people with nature through architecture and interior design. The premise of the theory is that people are naturally drawn to nature and that spending time in nature can improve productivity, well-being, and general quality of life. It has been demonstrated that biophilic architecture design can convey a healthy environment, lower stress levels, and promote a sense of serenity for people residing in it. This is because the design uses natural materials and natural patterns to create a connection between humans and the natural world. This study looks into the application of biophilic design ideas in hospitality environments. This study aims to investigate if, in the context of hotels, including biophilic design improves guest emotional responses, perceived quality, and behavioral intentions. The results of this study showed that biophilic designs produced more favorable emotional and behavioral reactions than the standard design using the scenario-based experiment. Furthermore, patrons thought hotels with biophilic decor were of higher caliber. The goal of biophilic design is to incorporate natural aspects into the built environment to improve overall guest experience, comfort, and well-being. It is based on the human connection to nature. Site inspections, management interviews, and visitor surveys are a few of the data collection techniques used in hotels. The results provide important insights for architects, designers, and hoteliers looking to build more sustainable and guest-centric settings by illuminating the challenges, advantages, and consequences of using biophilic design in a hospitality context.

EVALUATION OF SAFETY MANAGEMENT DURING TUNNELS CONSTRUCTION IN SAUDI ARABIA

Tunnel construction projects are complex engineering projects that pose numerous safety challenges. Accordingly, prioritizing the protection of workers, the public, and the environment is imperative. This study aimed to comprehensively analyze the most significant risks associated with tunnel construction projects. Twenty-nine hazards were identified through site inspections and interviews with engineers and managers engaged in various tunnel projects in Saudi Arabia. These risks were categorized into six groups, namely, technical, geological, environmental, social, human, political, contractual, and cost-related risks. Data were acquired from 98 of 108 respondents completing a questionnaire. The data were statistically analyzed using the SPSS V20 package. The Total Importance Index Impact (TIII) application determined the most crucial risks affecting tunnel construction safety management. The findings demonstrate that risk analysis facilitates project managers in identifying and focusing on principal risks, which supports the implementation and evaluation of safety management plans. By providing practical guidelines, risk analysis enhances the success rate of tunnel construction projects. Implementing measures to mitigate exposure to elevated noise levels, air supply hazards, fires, and oxygen deficiency is anticipated to result in numerous benefits, including improved worker health and performance, reduced time and expenses, enhanced productivity, and an improved reputation among staff and clients.

Limits and pitfalls in a lethal infant cocaine intoxication

ABSTRACT The case concerns the first Italian report of a fatal cocaine intoxication in an 8-month-old baby girl found dead in the cradle by her parents at 6 am on a summer day. At arrival to the emergency department, the doctors declared the baby dead and the Prosecutor Office ordered an autopsy and toxicological analyses. Despite no history of cocaine use/abuse by both parents, toxicological analyses evidenced a positivity to cocaine in the post-mortem blood, brain and liver. The legal physician concluded for a fatal cocaine intoxication. A crucial aspect to the Court was to discriminate between administration (accidental or voluntary) and intake (almost accidentally), due to different legal consequences for parents (i.e. voluntary homicide or inadequate supervision). In the here presented case discriminating the exact intake was almost impossible in terms of certainty. Such difficulty mainly derived from lacks in the investigation activities in the first hours following the death. Among all possible intake routes, the ‘most probable’ was the accidental one, mostly attributable to a cradle contamination. A lack in the site inspection protocol could strongly affect the case solution making it impossible to offer the Court a definitive ‘scientific’ solution to the case (based on scientifically irrefutable data).