In the heart of Madrid, researchers at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid are revolutionizing how we approach safety on construction sites, with implications that could ripple through the energy sector and beyond. Led by Antonio José Carpio-de-los-Pinos, a team has developed a novel methodology called the “Nivel de la Acción Preventiva” (Level of Preventive Action), which promises to enhance safety communication and risk evaluation in real-time, potentially saving lives and reducing downtime.
Construction sites are inherently dangerous, with workers often exposed to complex risks that can change rapidly. Traditional risk assessment methods, while valuable, often fall short in providing timely, actionable insights. This is where Carpio-de-los-Pinos’ work comes in. The new methodology integrates both quantitative and qualitative data to create a dynamic picture of a site’s safety climate.
The approach is twofold. First, it quantifies risks by assigning numerical values based on factors like the complexity of the task, exposure to hazards, and the availability of safety measures. This data-driven approach provides a clear, objective assessment of risk levels. But Carpio-de-los-Pinos and his team didn’t stop there. They also developed a qualitative component that considers the human element—how workers perceive and respond to risks in their environment.
“Safety is not just about numbers,” Carpio-de-los-Pinos explains. “It’s about how workers feel and behave in their environment. By integrating linguistic and behavioral data, we can gain a more holistic understanding of the safety climate.”
The methodology doesn’t just stop at data collection. It uses advanced technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and artificial intelligence to monitor and optimize the interaction between humans and machines on site. Sensors, both wearable and zonal, provide real-time data, enabling proactive risk management.
So, what does this mean for the energy sector? With the push towards renewable energy and the construction of complex infrastructure like wind farms and solar plants, safety is paramount. Downtime due to accidents can be costly, both in terms of money and reputation. By implementing the Nivel de la Acción Preventiva, energy companies could enhance safety, reduce downtime, and ultimately, boost productivity.
Moreover, the methodology’s focus on communication could foster a culture of safety, where workers feel empowered to speak up about risks. This could lead to a significant reduction in accidents and near-misses.
The research, published in the journal Annals of Construction, is a significant step forward in construction safety. As the energy sector continues to evolve, so too must our approach to safety. Carpio-de-los-Pinos’ work provides a compelling roadmap for this evolution, one that prioritizes both data and the human experience. As the industry looks to the future, this methodology could well become a cornerstone of construction safety, shaping how we build the energy infrastructure of tomorrow.