Opportunity
The construction industry has long struggled with significant safety challenges, evidenced by high rates of injuries and fatalities. For instance, in Hong Kong alone, 1,700 injuries with 6 fatal cases were recorded in the first half of 2018. A major contributing factor is the inaccuracy and unreliability of construction health and safety data, often due to intentional cheating, negligence, or human error in manual safety auditing processes. Traditional paper-based audit systems are time-consuming, prone to manipulation, and ineffective in preventing deception. There is a critical need for a transparent, tamper-proof system that can ensure the integrity of safety records, provide real-time monitoring, and enhance overall safety management on construction sites. The lack of such technology has led to economic losses, reduced competitiveness, and persistent safety hazards.
Technology
This patent introduces a blockchain-based system and method for improving construction safety, termed "Construction Safety Audit with Blockchain" (CSAB). The innovation centers on a smart contract platform that facilitates various operations on a construction site by leveraging a distributed ledger (e.g., private Ethereum or Hyperledger Fabric) to store construction information immutably. The system updates the ledger with new entries related to site activities, which are simultaneously recorded in a cloud-based database and across multiple distributed nodes. Tokens, including non-fungible tokens (NFTs), are used to verify transactions and ensure authenticity. The platform audits the construction information to evaluate the safety level of the site, generating tamper-proof safety reports. Additionally, it integrates with AI cameras for real-time monitoring, face recognition, and PPE detection, enhancing data accuracy and automation. The smart contract platform also validates user permissions to control access and operations, ensuring that only authorized personnel can update or access records.
Advantages
- Data Integrity: Immutable ledger entries prevent tampering, fraud, and unauthorized changes.
- Real-Time Monitoring: AI cameras and IoT sensors provide live updates and alerts for safety hazards.
- Automated Auditing: Smart contracts automate safety checks and report generation, reducing human error.
- Enhanced Transparency: All stakeholders can access verified, real-time safety data.
- Permission Control: User validation ensures only authorized personnel can perform critical operations.
- Comprehensive Reporting: Generates detailed, unmodifiable safety audit reports for compliance and analysis.
- Scalability: Supports multiple applications, including access control, PPE detection, and incident reporting.
Applications
- Construction Safety Audits: Automated, real-time safety inspections and reporting.
- Access Control: AI-based face recognition and authentication at site entrances.
- PPE Compliance Monitoring: Detection of proper attire and equipment usage.
- Incident Reporting: Immediate logging and analysis of accidents and hazards.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to safety standards and policies.
- Stakeholder Communication: Secure sharing of safety data among project teams, consultants, and authorities.
- Training and Induction: Digital tools for site-specific safety training and meetings.
