Tactile-based wearable system for improved hazard perception of worker and equipment collision

摘要

Although past studies investigated automated hazard-identification methods, few explored workers? awareness capabilities for detected hazards. Recent research identified that workers have difficulty becoming aware of potential risks in harsh construction environments (limited vision and hearing). In response, this study investigated a new communication method with a wearable tactile-based system to improve worker?s hazard perception. Built on past research, we identified key informational details to represent detected safety hazards, developed a tactile-based communication mechanism, and conducted a series of field trials. Results were assessed to determine the system?s reliability with respect to several scenarios, conducted in a controlled environment for safety reasons. Test results demonstrated that the system is capable of alerting workers of pre-identified collision hazards without relying on their innate sensing (hearing and vision). Findings could help workers to become aware of detected hazards in harsh environments, where it is difficult to hear alerts or spot potential hazards.