BIM and sensor-based data management system for construction safety monitoring

• Published in: Journal of engineering, design and technology Vol. 15; no. 6; pp. 738 - 753
• Main Authors: Riaz, Zainab, Parn, Erika A, Edwards, David J, Arslan, Muhammad, Shen, Charles, Pena-Mora, Feniosky
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bingley Emerald Group Publishing Limited 04-12-2017
• Subjects: Automation; Building information modeling; Building management systems; Confined spaces; Construction accidents & safety; Construction sites; Cosmos; Data management; Digital media; Environmental monitoring; International conferences; Internet of Things; Occupational safety; Relational data bases; Remote sensors; Sensors; Wireless networks; Wireless sensor networks; Workers; United States > US
• ISSN: 1726-0531; 1758-8901
• DOI: 10.1108/JEDT-03-2017-0017

PurposeThis research aims to investigate the integration of real-time monitoring of thermal conditions within confined work environments through wireless sensor network (WSN) technology when integrated with building information modelling (BIM). A prototype system entitled confined space monitoring system (CoSMoS), which provides an opportunity to incorporate sensor data for improved visualization through new add-ins to BIM software, was then developed.Design/methodology/approachAn empirical study was undertaken to compare and contrast between the performances (over a time series) of various database models to find a back-end database storage configuration that best suits the needs of CoSMoS.FindingsFusing BIM data with information streams derived from wireless sensors challenges traditional approaches to data management. These challenges encountered in the prototype system are reported upon and include issues such as hardware/software selection and optimization. Consequently, various database models are explored and tested to find a database storage that best suits the specific needs of this BIM-wireless sensor technology integration.Originality valueThis work represents the first tranche of research that seeks to deliver a fully integrated and advanced digital built environment solution for automating the management of health and safety issues on construction sites.