A groundbreaking automated workplace hazard analysis tool developed by Australian researchers promises to transform safety protocols in high-risk industries such as roofing, where fatal injury rates remain well above the national average.
Researchers at the University of South Australia have unveiled a “knowledge graph” system designed to predict hazards on construction sites that are traditionally identified through a labor-intensive manual process. The results will be published in the Journal of Engineering, Project, and Production Management.
Introducing the JHA Knowledge Graph
The innovative system, called Job Hazard Analysis Knowledge Graph (JHAKG), aims to revolutionize the management of workplace risks for roofers and other construction professionals. Dr. Sonali Pandithawatta, construction management lecturer at UniSA, highlighted the urgency of developing advanced safety measures, noting that construction sites account for almost 20% of all occupational deaths worldwide.
“Traditionally, threat detection relies heavily on security personnel – a process that is often prone to inefficiencies and human error,” explained Pandithawatta. “Our research addresses the urgent need to automate hazard analysis in the workplace.”
The study highlights the limitations of manual threat detection and fragmented security protocols and illustrates how the JHAKG system automates risk assessment to improve efficiency and accuracy.
More safety for roofers
Roofers in particular face increased risks because falls, slips and trips are the leading causes of workplace injuries and deaths, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The JHAKG system addresses these challenges by integrating work steps, associated elements and external conditions – weather and location proximity – into its analysis.
For example, the system can pinpoint specific hazards such as strong winds or wet surfaces and allows contractors to implement targeted safety measures. Historical data and expert knowledge are used to preventively identify potential dangers such as unstable ladders or unprotected edges, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Structure of the knowledge graph
To develop the JHAKG, researchers analyzed over 100 workplace hazard analysis (JHA) documents and consulted 18 industry experts. The data – including weather conditions, work steps, hazards and preventative measures – was carefully integrated into a comprehensive diagram.
According to UniSA Professor of Construction and Project Management Rameez Rameezdeen, a co-author of the study, the system demonstrated exceptional accuracy – over 90% in identifying primary and secondary hazards in real time. The model also took into account atmospheric risks and risks close to the workplace, providing a robust hazard prediction framework.
Tangible benefits for contractors
A case study as part of the research found significant results for companies implementing the JHAKG system. Within 12 months, participating companies saw a 30% decrease in recorded incidents and a 20% decrease in workers' compensation costs. These results highlight the financial and operational benefits of integrating automated security tools.
Workplace injuries impose enormous costs on roofers, ranging from medical costs and workers' compensation to project delays and lost productivity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of a workplace injury is about $42,000, with falls often exceeding this figure.
By reducing injury frequency and severity, contractors can reduce insurance premiums, minimize claims and avoid costly project disruptions. The system's proactive approach to hazard mitigation also increases operational efficiency and allows projects to stay on schedule and within budget.
Increasing morale and retention
Security is more than a legal obligation; It is a cornerstone of employee satisfaction and loyalty. Protected workers are more engaged and less likely to leave their jobs. This is particularly critical in the roofing industry, where high turnover rates are often accompanied by unsafe working conditions.
“Integrating comprehensive hazard data into daily operations empowers both workers and safety personnel and promotes workforce cohesion and confidence,” the study says.
The way into the future
Although the JHAKG system represents a significant advance, its adoption in the construction industry is still at an early stage. The researchers remain optimistic and emphasize that the proof of concept is a crucial step towards broader implementation. As safety performance becomes an increasingly influential factor in customer decisions, tools like the JHAKG could redefine industry standards.
In a competitive market, prioritizing security is not only ethical but also smart business. With the JHAKG system, roofers and other high-risk industries have the opportunity to protect their workforce, increase efficiency and improve their bottom line.