Technology is always on the rise, all the more in the construction field, for the sake of coping to improve construction processes and the industry’s glacial pace of change. As we continually explore new and upcoming technologies to solve existing issues, we can confidently say that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a successful tool to make construction safer and efficient. This article delves into the significant role of AI in construction safety, highlighting its benefits and implications for the industry.
Workplace safety and technology are thoroughly intertwined. Lately, numerous construction companies have increasingly started using AI in a broader spectrum to make construction progressive and innovative. From optimizing work schedules to enhancing workplace safety to keeping a secure watch on construction plants, AI in construction industry is already proving its value.
Understanding the Role of AI in Construction Safety
Construction companies are now using Artificial Intelligence to examine a variety of what-if scenarios and contingency plans. The same pattern detection software that works seamlessly with scheduling gets positioned to anticipate common trends. Artificial Intelligence can deduce from there what might happen if a permit gets delayed or an incident occurs and run through multiple scenarios instantly.
The nature of Artificial Intelligence technology additionally enables the detection of trends. It can analyze all the information accumulated over a period of time and draw reliable conclusions like repetitive risks or standard issues to notice problems. This forecasting activity can help ensure plans are in place to deal with unpredicted situations.
The prime focus is on using the potential of of AI for construction safety to enhance the safety protocols in the construction business. But before we dive deep into the process, let us understand the meaning and real-life application of the above technologies.
The term ‘AI’ is used to describe technologies capable of performing or augmenting tasks that traditionally had to be executed by humans, such as reasoning or problem-solving. These same tools are sometimes also called ‘cognitive.’
Here are three common types of AI:
1. Machine Learning: It is a subset of AI that uses statistical techniques to give computer systems the capability to ‘learn’ from data without being explicitly programmed. A machine becomes better at understanding and providing valuable insights as it gets exposed to more data.
2. Deep Learning: A complex subset of machine learning that can analyze more abstract variables in images and speech.
3. Computer Vision: An application of deep learning that provides the capability to identify and extract meaning from images or text.
The Significance of AI in Construction Safety
Unfortunately, construction business and hazards go hand in hand. No matter the level of alertness, mishaps do happen. From unsafe structure mechanisms to perilous moving equipment, construction workers are mortally vulnerable at every corner of the site. Hence, safety and security are potential project risks that every construction company puts on the priority list.
Given the level of complexity in the working conditions and the uncompromised level of vigilance on-site, AI for construction safety is considered the most sought and effective tool to ensure safety in construction jobsites.
Nowadays, construction sites get equipped with cameras, IoT devices, and sensors. These meticulously monitor every aspect of construction operations. AI-enabled systems can monitor the ongoing processes 24/7 without dropping guard. Facial recognition and object recognition technology propel the AI systems to detect unsafe behavior, thus alerting the construction team of potential hazards. Not only does this reduce liability, but also saves lives and increases efficiency, a critical necessity in the construction business.
Because of the incredible results that AI delivers, it is no surprise that the construction industry is adopting various AI-based technologies. The benefits that AI can provide are still in the early stages. Nonetheless, in the coming years, AI will continue to drive advancements concerning structure and efficiency within the construction industry.
But the future of AI in construction safety depends on organizational alignment and willingness to take chances that could improve operations. We need to move past the orthodox and conventional manner of thinking. Deploying old, cheap machinery and risking human lives should not be prevailed and encouraged solely on humanitarian grounds.
Companies should leverage AI insights to create safer, better work environments for everyone as AI becomes more advanced and new levels of detail emerge. A path to be taken consciously and implanted methodically to stay relevant in the current progressive society.
It is not enough for construction managers to update workers of the existing risks at a job site. But sharing the details whether that risk comes from weather conditions, equipment hazards, or other factors. With AI on their side, managers can be more specific in their analysis, assessments, and awareness. They can help increase workers’ safety and recognize dormant risk factors before they become dangerous, causing lamentable accidents.
How viAct Ensures Construction Safety with AI?
Hong Kong-based viAct leverages AI for Construction Safety and makes its application simple and effortless. It helps construction sites perform 24/7 monitoring with construction management software - an AI-based cloud platform that combines computer vision and a mobile app.
viAct uses AI + IoT + 5G with vision technology to optimize construction safety, productivity, and compliance.
Feel free to take a Free Trial to know more - https://www.viact.ai/demo
For viAct – ‘SAFETY is NOT an OPTION. It is a MUST!’
We focus on ensuring construction safety with AI along with computer vision technology for cost-saving, and productivity enhancement in the construction and manufacturing industry. Get updated with the latest technology news and their on-going efforts to the community in the construction and manufacturing field on https://www.viact.ai/blogs