from remote locations. Tis allows project managers and supervisors to monitor progress, track equipment, and address safety issues without being physically present on the site. Remote monitoring also facilitates


quick response to emergencies and better coordination between teams. In addition, mobile apps and software have become essential tools for managing projects, communicating with team members, accessing blueprints and specifications, performing safety inspections, and track- ing progress. One of the most impactful technol- ogies on construction is the Internet of Tings (IoT). IoT technology has been increasingly adopted in construction, enabling the integration and commu- nication of various devices and sensors. IoT devices can monitor equipment performance, track materials, collect data on site conditions, and enhance safety through real-time monitoring and predictive analytics.


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CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTOR SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023


Let’s dive a little deeper into how


IoT technology can address many of the risk factors discussed above to improve safety and reduce risk on construction sites.


Increasing Awareness of Proper Procedures Te combination of equipment manage- ment software and mobile technology makes it easy for construction sites to mandate inspections, safety equipment, and more, even when on-site supervisors are missing or otherwise occupied. For example: • Inspections can be mandated at the start of a day to ensure that vehicles and equipment are in good working order before projects begin.


• QR code tags can be incorporated into inspections to confirm the presence of mandatory PPE, fire extinguishers, safety harnesses, or other equipment depending on the job site and project type.


Creative applications of inherent soft-


ware features can also be used to improve safety adherence on sites. Many software solutions allow assets to be “grouped”; assets can be tagged with low energy Bluetooth (BLE) trackers or cellular/ GPS devices, and the system identifies if items in a group are not nearby. Tagging a box that houses safety har-


nesses with a BLE tracker and pairing it with GPS-tracked scaffolding can high- light if the safety harnesses are not present while workers and machinery are in use near the scaffolding. Technology may not be able to force workers to wear safety equipment but can make it easier to spot problems before they become injuries.


Improving Communication Between Field, Shop, and Office Playwright George Bernard Shaw is cred- ited with saying, “Te single biggest prob- lem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” IoT technology helps erase that illusion. With a document-


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