The first construction safety laws were passed in the late 1880s. Almost 150 years later, technology has transformed construction work and safety in ways that couldn’t have been imagined in the 19th century. These new technologies may prevent some construction worker injuries but do not eliminate the risk of injury.
The experienced New Jersey and New York construction injury lawyers of Hofmann & Schweitzer have protected construction workers' rights since 1977. Now, as in decades past, we are here to help injured construction workers protect their rights and recover fair compensation. If you’ve been hurt, we encourage you to contact us to learn more.
5 Cutting-Edge Technologies Transforming Construction Safety
Some of the new technologies that may help prevent construction site accident injuries include:
1. Drones
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, are revolutionizing construction site safety inspections. These high-tech tools provide a bird's-eye view of the entire job site, allowing safety managers to:
- Identify hazards. Drones can spot potential dangers like unstable structures, fall risks, or hazardous material spills that may be difficult to see from the ground.
- Monitor behavior. Aerial footage can help identify whether workers follow proper safety protocols, such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Inspect hard-to-reach areas. Drones can safely navigate tight spaces, tall structures, or hazardous environments, reducing the risk of worker injury during inspections.
Once the inspection is completed, further action is needed to correct identified risks.
2. Virtual Reality Immersive Safety Training
Virtual reality (VR) is transforming construction safety training, allowing workers to practice navigating hazardous scenarios in controlled environments. Immersive VR simulations can help employees:
- Master safety protocols. Workers can repeatedly practice proper procedures like operating heavy machinery, working at heights, or handling dangerous materials until they feel confident in their abilities.
- Experience realistic hazards. VR can safely simulate emergencies like fires, explosions, or structural collapses, preparing workers to react quickly and effectively in a real crisis.
Interactive VR training can be more engaging and effective than traditional classroom instruction, helping employees retain critical safety information.
3. Wearable Sensors
Smart helmets, watches, and other wearable devices are becoming increasingly common on construction sites, helping to monitor worker safety in real-time. These innovative sensors can:
- Detect falls. Wearables with built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes can identify sudden movements that may indicate a worker has fallen, automatically alerting safety personnel.
- Monitor vital signs. Some devices track heart rate, body temperature, and other biometric data, warning workers if they're at risk of heat stroke, exhaustion, or other health emergencies.
- Alert workers to hazards. Wearables can be programmed to vibrate or sound an alarm if a worker enters a dangerous area or comes too close to a hazardous piece of equipment.
While wearable sensors are a promising safety innovation, a device's malfunction or lax enforcement of safety rules can still lead to severe injuries.
4. Robotics
Construction robots are taking on some of the industry's most dangerous jobs, minimizing risks for construction workers. Robotic systems can assist with hazardous tasks like:
- Demolition. Robots equipped with powerful hydraulic arms can safely demolish structures, reducing workers' risk of collapse injuries during demolition.
- Welding and cutting. Automated welding and plasma cutting systems can operate in tight spaces or hazardous environments, minimizing toxic fume exposure and burn risks.
- Heavy material handling. Robotic lifts and exoskeletons can help workers safely move heavy loads, reducing the risk of crush injuries or musculoskeletal disorders.
Robots only create safer conditions if they work correctly.
5. Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly powerful tool for identifying and mitigating construction site hazards. AI-powered systems can:
- Analyze safety data. Machine learning algorithms can process vast amounts of safety information from sensors, inspections, and injury reports, identifying patterns and risk factors that human analysts might overlook.
- Predict potential hazards. Based on historical data, predictive AI models can forecast where and when accidents are most likely to occur, allowing safety managers to take proactive measures to prevent injuries.
- Optimize safety planning. AI can help construction companies develop more effective safety plans by identifying high-risk tasks, equipment, or locations that require additional precautions or oversight.
While AI has enormous potential to enhance construction safety, the technology is still emerging and can't prevent all accidents.
Old Construction Laws Still Protect Modern Construction Workers
New York construction laws protect you even if you’ve been hurt on a construction site, even if your employer uses cutting-edge safety technology. These laws include, but are not limited to:
New York Labor Law 240
New York Labor Law 240, also known as "the Scaffold Law," was enacted in 1885. It requires contractors and property owners to provide proper safety equipment and training for employees working at heights. If they fail to do so, they are liable for gravity-related injuries.
New York Labor Law 200
New York Labor Law 200 is a general workplace safety statute that requires employers to provide reasonable and adequate protection for the lives, health, and safety of all people employed in their facilities. This law applies to dangerous conditions and equipment beyond just height-related hazards.
New York Labor Law 241
New York Labor Law 241 imposes a nondelegable duty on owners and contractors to comply with specific safety rules and regulations in construction, excavation, and demolition work. Injured workers can recover damages if it is shown that a violation of one of these safety rules caused their injury.
New Jersey state law may protect you if you’ve been hurt on a New Jersey construction site, and state and federal construction safety regulations may apply if you’ve been hurt in either state.
