Table 1 Internet of things applications for next-generation construction sites.
From: Internet of things (IoT) for safety and efficiency in construction building site operations
Factor | Monitoring technology | Key data points | Benefits | Challenges | Metrics | Use Cases | Value drivers | References |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Worker Safety | Smart helmets, wearables | Health metrics, fatigue, hazards | Injury prevention, risk alerts | Adoption, cost | Incident rates, unsafe behaviors | Gas alerts, fall detection | Reduced injuries, insurance | |
Worker Productivity | Handheld devices, AR/VR | Work quality, training needs | Enhanced tracking, training | Learning curve, adoption | Work volumes, rework rates | Workflow instructions, 3D visualization | Optimized labor, quality | |
Worker Location | GPS, BLE beacons | Movement, proximity alerts | Coordinate workers, avoid accidents | Privacy concerns, failures | Utilization rates, transit times | Proximity alerts, location visualization | Efficient workflows, space utilization | |
Equipment Location | GPS, RFID tags | Real-time location, zones | Optimize routes, prevent collisions | Interference, power | Downtime, transit and wait times | Traffic coordination, geofencing | Reduced damage, efficient use | |
Equipment Usage | Sensors, meters | Load, runtime, diagnostics | Predictive maintenance, reduce failures | Installation, data management | Sensor trends, abnormal events | Condition monitoring, utilization patterns | Lower maintenance costs, uptime | |
Vehicle Location | GPS, proximity sensors | Location, speed, proximity | Avoid collisions, optimize traffic | Cost, data integration | Accident rates, traffic violations | Automated dispatch, congestion alerts | Improved safety, fuel savings | |
Structural Health | Thermal cameras, lidar, gauges | Cracks, deformation, stresses | Early failure detection, prevent collapses | Technology limits, expert analysis | Crack growth, deformation trends | Walls, foundations, temporary structures | Avoid failures, quality | |
Gas Detection | Air quality sensors | Methane, CO, VOCs | Prevent explosions, leakage incidents | Maintenance, calibration | Gas concentration trends | Fuel storage, underground work | Compliance, worker safety | |
Noise Levels | Sound sensors, microphones | Decibel levels, frequencies | Prevent hearing damage, noise control | Interference, placement | Time over exposure limits | High noise areas, equipment | Compliance, health | |
Air Quality | Particle sensors | PM2.5/PM10, dust | Protect worker health, reduce hazards | Sensor reliability, accuracy | Pollutant concentration trends | Material storage, mixing stations | Compliance, health | |
Weather Tracking | Anemometers, humidity sensors | Wind, precipitation, visibility | Plan for weather disruptions | Costs, data integration | Work stoppages, weather delays | Wind-sensitive tasks, concrete curing | Avoid weather delays | |
Project Quality | Scanners, photogrammetry | Model validation, progress metrics | Ensure specifications met, identify defects | Expert analysis, data volume | Defect rates, rework rates | Structural inspection, progress tracking | Prevent rework, meet specifications | |
Data Security | Encryption, access controls | Protect against data theft, manipulation | Ensure safety, prevent fraud | Complex systems, auditing | Unauthorized access events, anomalies | Sensor data, personal information | Privacy, data integrity | |
Data Integration | APIs, standard protocols | Aggregate data across systems | Unified insights and analytics | Interoperability, legacy systems | Data coverage, gaps | Centralized analytics, visualizations | Improved decisions, automation | |
Compliance | Checklists, sensor data as proof | Adhere to regulations, demonstrate compliance | Avoid fines, business continuity | Manual effort, unclear requirements | Audit results, noncompliance events | Emissions, worker exposure levels | Avoid fines, prosecutions | |
Sustainability | Energy, water, waste sensors | Resource usage, carbon emissions | Improve environmental impact | Costs, data management | Energy/water/waste usage, carbon emissions | Equipment utilization, material sourcing | Meet certification goals, stewardship | |
Materials Management | Barcodes, RFID | Materials tracking, inventory | Improve supply chain visibility | Costs, adoption across supply chain | Stockouts, wastage | Delivery tracking, inventory management | Optimal material flow, minimized waste | |
Schedule Management | Work progress sensors, video analytics | Construction progress metrics | Identify delays, optimize schedules | Technology limitations, manual oversight still required | Schedule variance, milestone achievement rates | Automated punch list, work sequencing | On-time delivery, cost control | |
Automated Reporting | Wearables, equipment sensors | Activity tracking, output metrics | Automate paper/spreadsheet reporting | Adoption, ensuring data validity | Time savings, report automation rates | Daily logs, sensor-generated reports | Accelerated and consistent reporting | |
Remote Operations | Cameras, sensors, wearables | Site monitoring, controlling equipment remotely | Continue work during crises, harsh conditions | Legal limitations, tasks not suited for remote work | Percentage of work done remotely | Hazardous tasks, controlling machinery | Improved safety, continuity |
