The construction sector in Hong Kong is a bustling and dynamic industry, characterized by its rapid development and ambitious infrastructure projects. However, with the high pace of construction comes an increased need for stringent safety measures to protect workers and ensure smooth project execution. This is where the innovative 4S Labelling Scheme steps in, setting a new benchmark for safety and efficiency in the industry.
By adhering to this scheme, companies can significantly reduce workplace accidents, enhance operational efficiency, and promote sustainable building practices. The implementation of the Scheme not only improves the overall safety culture but also drives innovation and quality in construction projects, positioning the country as a leader in construction safety and excellence.
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But first let’s rewind and learn what this 4S Labelling Scheme is and how it works:
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In April 2024, an accident occurring in the area Sha Tin in shook the entire region when two workers while fulfilling their task lost their lives. This incident occurred in a manhole where two out of four workers died after being exposed to hydrogen sulphide at the construction site. The Drainage Services Department immediately instructed the contractor and sub-contractor to suspend their work until safety inspections are conducted. All the ongoing work in the construction sites nearby in the district were adjourned for safety purposes of the workers.
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The analysis of the incident suggest that there are several challenges still existing when working in dangerous areas such as confined spaces. The lack of a proper security and communication system can lead to fatal accidents such as this even in this day and age of technological revolution. However, the revolutionary step by the Development Bureau (DEVB) provided further instructions to promote the adoption of Smart Site Safety System (4S) and guarantee the safety of the workers across the construction sector.
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The DEVB and Construction Industry Council (CIC) are all set to launch a series of measures that will advance the adoption of this provision in the construction industry under the name of 4S Labelling Scheme. According to the current norms, any capital work contract that exceeds a project valuation of $30 million must mandatorily use the system.
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As mentioned by Ms. Bernadette Linn, the Secretary for Development, is undertaking every measure to speed up its adoption to ensure the safety in the sites for years and would lie down three new measures to work towards increasing the adoption at private worksites.
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Measure 1: Starting July 1, the Buildings Department (BD) will mandate the system for private development projects. Under the Buildings Ordinance, this will be required for initial approvals or major revisions of superstructure plans. For projects costing over $30 million and involving mobile plants and tower cranes, registered contractors must implement the relevant alert systems.
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Measure 2: Under the scheme, jointly launched by the DEVB and CIC, contractors can submit applications to the CIC. After on-site inspections and evaluations, the CIC will approve the applications and issue 4S labels. These labels will be prominently displayed at construction sites for easy identification and monitoring. The list of labelled worksites will also be available on the CIC’s website to encourage wider adoption. Approximately 500 worksites, including both public and private projects, are expected to participate, covering over 60% of current construction sites. The first batch of around 100 labels will be issued in July, with approvals largely completed by the end of the year.
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Measure 3: To support the adoption of this monitoring system in private construction projects, the CITF has increased funding from $6 million to $7.5 million per applicant starting April 1, 2023. This funding will now cover additional expenses related to its implementation, such as network upgrades, additional maintenance and technical support staff, and obtaining quotations for commonly used products in advance.
The acquirement of the 4S Label from DEVB and the Construction Industry Council (CIC) can help a construction site gain the following –
Elevate Construction Site Safety: Transform construction sites into safer work environments through advanced implementation.
Promote Industry-Wide 4S Adoption: Inspire widespread use of practices across the construction industry.
Acknowledge 4S Leaders: Celebrate with developers and main contractors who pioneer 4S adoption.
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Enhance Corporate Image and ESG Engagement: Strengthen corporate reputation and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments through proactive initiatives.
The adoption of the system is not required in a construction site out of mandate but it brings with it a number of benefits that can only be achieved with a smart monitoring system. Here are the five benefits that the system can bring to the construction site -
1. Enhanced Safety Standards
The system ensures rigorous safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on construction sites. This creates a safer working environment for all personnel involved.
2. Improved Operational Efficiency
By standardizing processes and promoting best practices, the system streamlines operations, minimizes downtime, and enhances overall productivity on construction projects.
3. Sustainability Focus
The scheme encourages sustainable building practices, helping construction companies reduce their environmental footprint and promote eco-friendly methods and materials.
4. Smart Technology Integration
The system incorporates advanced technologies for real-time monitoring and data analysis, allowing for proactive management of site activities and quicker responses to potential issues.
5. Transparency and Accountability
With automated recordkeeping and visible 4S labels, the scheme brings transparency to construction sites. This makes it easier to monitor compliance, ensure quality control, and build trust with stakeholders.
The stakes are high with the new conditions introduced with the 4S Labelling Scheme but the concern here lies in answering that one question in your mind -
Is there perfect solution that can help construction sites in Hong Kong to get 4S Labelled?
The answer is absolutely yes! viAct has been working on making construction sites in Hong Kong safer and sustainable since its inception. It has managed to understand all the specific problems that occur in these sites and has curated its solution to easily fit into the existing day-to-day operations. The vision of viAct is to create a safer workplace for everyone where the use of AI for good is converted into reality.
The List of Smart Solutions Integrated into viAct’s 4S Solution are
1. Centralized Management Platform
The platform that facilitates the composition of information at one place is viHUB. It is powered by vision intelligence, automates human monitoring processes to enhance site safety, boost productivity, and reduce costs. It can monitor project progress through 2D reports or 3D models and quickly access photo and video evidence from anywhere, at any time.
It is an expert on utilizing cutting-edge machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models for scenario prediction and forecasting, unveiling hidden insights with the Digital Works Supervision System (DWSS). Moreover, it keeps all stakeholders informed with instant alerts and trend-oriented reports, reducing reporting time, action time, and costs.
2. AI-Powered Tracking System
The AI-Powered Tracking System by viAct is a groundbreaking component of its smart site safety system, designed to revolutionize the way construction sites are monitored and managed. Leveraging advanced artificial intelligence, this system brings a new level of precision, efficiency, and safety to construction projects.
The system employs sophisticated AI algorithms to analyze the data collected from the site. When potential safety hazards or rule violations such PPE compliance or other unsafe acts are detected, the system automatically generates alerts, notifying site managers and workers instantly. This proactive approach allows for immediate intervention, preventing accidents and ensuring a safer working environment. It can work well in critical worksite conditions such as danger zones and confined spaces.
To make the confined space monitoring even better, viAct has designed world’s first highly mobile AI monitoring system viMOV. It overcomes the barrier of requiring electricity and internet for establishing connection in critical sites by having the plug and play facility with 50 hours battery capacity and wireless system alert.
The use of AI and its tools such as Generative AI to generate instant feedbacks and suggestions through chatbots is an essential part of the process. Computer vision technology is integrated into the system to make the video analytics clearer in the real time evaluation. All these components actively work towards using AI for construction safety and can lead to reduction of 90% workplace accidents.
By harnessing the power of viAct’s video analytics, the system offers a streamlined approach to managing permits online which would ensure enhanced safety measures and operational efficiency.
The contractors can easily apply for permits online, streamlining the process and reducing paperwork. The system automates permit issuance, ensuring that all necessary approvals are obtained efficiently. Permit status and details can be tracked in real time, providing instant visibility into the permit's progress and expiration. This ensures that permits are always up-to-date and compliant with safety regulations. The system streamlines workflow management by automating permit approvals and notifications. This reduces delays and bottlenecks in the permit process, allowing construction activities to proceed smoothly and efficiently.
These criteria provided by the 4S designed by viAct completely merges with the assessment criteria provided by DEVB and the Construction Industry Council (CIC). Here are the four assessment criteria laid and how viAct’s Smart Site Safety System can fulfil them.
Risk Assessment Criteria for 4S Labeling Scheme | Solutions by viAct’s 4S |
Construction risks should be identified based on the scope and nature of the works. A thorough risk assessment, conducted by the safety officer, should refer to the "Code of Practice on Safety Management" issued by the Labour Department to determine risks accurately. | A thorough risk assessment can be conducted at the site level using the system equipped with AI using trend analysis and predictive maintenance provision beforehand. |
Apply suitable 4S solutions to address identified risks effectively. If a solution effectively mitigates certain risks, implement it consistently across different times and locations whenever applicable. | The system can detect a wide range of risky situation across the construction site and with it 24/7 surveillance system it can consistently monitor with high level of accuracy. |
Submit location plans detailing the setup of 4S devices, sensors, and cameras during construction to illustrate proper implementation of solutions. For solutions like smart wearables without fixed locations, provide operation arrangements or related documents outlining their usage. | The system can be easily integrated with the existing cameras in different locations of the construction site or can be installed across any new area based on requirement. |
During the site inspection following the expected deployment date, demonstrate the proper installation and ongoing functionality of 4S solutions. | The updated data for every instance in the construction site recorded through the system is available in the Centralised Management Platform immediately. |
The 4S Labelling Scheme is a revolution that will ensure the safety of the construction sites in the coming years. It can help save many lives and promote a sustainable work environment. The adherence to the scheme can be done by using viAct’s solution and walk a step close towards attaining a safer and secure construction industry in Hong Kong.
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