Improving safety performance through a user-centric knowledge-based system for fall risk assessment

Area of Science:

• Construction Safety Engineering
• Knowledge Management Systems
• Risk Assessment Methodologies

Background:

• Fall from height (FFH) incidents are a major construction safety issue globally.
• Integrating knowledge management (KM) into safety risk assessment (RA) is recommended for improved safety.
• A specific KM system for fall RA in formwork operations is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a knowledge-based system for fall risk assessment (RA) in vertical formwork operations.
• To address the gap in dedicated KM systems for construction fall RA.
• To enhance safety performance in Indian construction projects.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method approach combining Delphi surveys with experts and document analysis.
• Knowledge acquisition on fall causes, risks, and preventive measures for vertical formwork.
• Development and evaluation of a knowledge-based system using end-user surveys and statistical analysis (Krippendorff's alpha).

Main Results:

• The knowledge-based system provides accessible vertical formwork safety knowledge.
• It aids in on-the-job learning of safety RA skills and knowledge sharing.
• The system facilitates the fall RA process, improves safety performance, and saves time.

Conclusions:

• The developed knowledge-based system is expected to aid decision-making in construction safety.
• It supports effective fall risk assessment for vertical formwork activities.
• The system contributes to improved safety management in construction organizations.