Construction is central to the growth and development of the UK. The construction industry is a major economic driver, contributing approximately 6.4% to GDP, with the UK’s almost 194,000 construction businesses accounting for over 13.5% of all employers in the country.

As with many important modern industries, work in the construction sector can be uniquely dangerous. Trained professionals can be exposed to multiple potential hazards on a daily basis, requiring workers to remain focused and alert at all times to prevent serious accidents.

In 2022, the construction industry reported the highest number of fatal workplace accidents of any UK industry, totalling 30 individual incidents. To help safeguard workers from harm, many employers are turning towards the rise of connected safety on modern building sites.

What are connected construction safety systems?

Connected construction safety systems are networks of integrated technologies designed to protect workers from harm by automatically responding to potential threats. Wearable and stationary devices collect and share data in real-time to warn workers of emerging hazards.

According to recently published data, the construction industry reports the highest rate of workplace injuries globally, with 22% of workers suffering workplace injuries in recent years.

Connected safety systems seek to reduce these figures by automatically monitoring working conditions, enacting security responses and enforcing practical construction safety protocols.

The key components of connected construction safety systems

A typical connected construction safety solution is made up of multiple cloud-based devices that collect real-time data and send insights to a digital platform that can be viewed remotely.

Leaders can choose which types of devices are connected to the system to address unique needs across different job sites, as well as configure custom responses to site-specific risks.

Common components of a connected construction safety system include:

• Security cameras: IP cameras installed across the site transmit real-time footage to a remote-accessible monitoring system. Cameras can be enhanced via AI analytics to automatically warn operators of hazards like falling objects and equipment misuse.

• Environmental sensors: Sound, motion, heat and air quality sensors continuously monitor key areas for signs of emerging hazards. Leaders can set unique thresholds for sensors to trigger alarms, shut off machines and flag footage at aid investigations.

• Wearable devices: Workers are provided with wearable technologies like vests and helmets that continuously monitor themselves and the environment. If sensors detect worrying vital signs or hazardous conditions, instant alerts are sent to site managers.

• Automated machinery: Dangerous machines are fitted with sensors and actuators that can be controlled remotely. If sensors detect a potential accident of the misuse of equipment, automated shut down responses can be triggered and alerts can be sent.

• Cloud monitoring systems: All wearable and stationary devices send real-time data to a centralised cloud monitoring system that managers can access remotely 24/7 to view live feeds, analyse historical data, generate reports and receive real-time alerts.

How connected safety systems improve construction site safety

The construction worker safety market was worth an estimated $3.2 billion in 2024, and is projected to reach $4.6 billion in 2030 as more employers explore smart safety technologies.

Connected safety systems empower leaders and workers to identify and respond to complex incidents with maximal efficiency, as well as prevent hazards from forming via data analytics.

Enables instant emergency responses

Connected safety systems provide detailed, real-time insights into all aspects of construction operations. In the event of an emergency, such as a worker falling, a machine malfunction or the dangerous buildup of harmful gases, immediate responses and alerts can be triggered.

Improves health and safety compliance

AI-informed cameras and wearable sensors can identify the misuse of equipment and PPE. If a worker is observed on site without the correct safety equipment or using machines in an inappropriate manner, real-time responses can be enacted to prevent accidents and injuries.

Enhances real-time communication 

Connected safety system data can be communicated to lone workers and staff working in dangerous areas to help them monitor potential hazards in real-time. By making safety data freely-accessible, leaders can ensure dangers are communicated and responded to swiftly.

Prevents hazards through data analytics

The information collected by connected safety systems can be compiled and analysed to help identify emerging hazards before impacts are felt. Teams can use reports to improve safety protocols continuously and implement proactive solutions to help prevent accidents.

Final words

To help the construction industry continue to fuel growth in the UK, leaders must commit to improving workplace safety. With support from smart technologies and proactive analytics solutions, connected safety systems are helping to create safer, more productive job sites.