Construction is a dangerous industry. While any experienced professional recognizes that fact, many teams overlook critical measures to improve site safety. Physical protection isn’t the only concern, either.
Jobsite security is a more prominent issue than it may initially seem. Equipment theft results in major monetary losses every year, and such incidents may become increasingly common as the value of machinery and materials rises. Thankfully, you have more tools than ever at your disposal to prevent these crimes. Here’s a look at seven digital innovations you can use to secure your worksite.
Fixed-Position Cameras
Fixed CCTV cameras are among the most straightforward solutions to construction site security. Despite their relative simplicity, they provide crucial protection against trespassing and theft, especially with newer models’ functionality.
Today’s cameras often come with automated features to expand their usefulness. Machine vision algorithms can detect people who enter the device’s field of view and alert relevant stakeholders immediately. Because current systems can detect faces with 99% accuracy, distinguishing between human bodies and other elements is well within the technology’s capabilities.
Other solutions may come with motion-triggered lights to scare off thieves, automatic video saving or wireless connectivity. Whatever the specifics, additional features make CCTV easier to access and more effective at responding to emerging cases than ever before. As technology progresses, such functionality will only become additionally reliable.
Pan-Tilt-Zoom Cameras
Pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras are a similar but distinct technology. Unlike fixed-position alternatives, PTZ devices can move, letting them capture a 360-degree field of view.
Previous generations of PTZ CCTV required a human operator to direct camera angles and search for suspicious activity. Today’s versions can move automatically, either following a preset schedule or using motion detection to find and follow moving objects. In either case, they cover a larger area without needing extra staff.
Like with fixed-position cameras, machine vision takes PTZ recording devices to new heights. Once artificial intelligence (AI) models recognize a person, they can track them and adjust their focus to clarify the image of whoever they’re following. Automatic zooming features can reveal additional detail where needed.
Drones
While PTZ and fixed-position CCTV take cameras to metaphorical new heights, drones take them to literal ones. Despite its relative newness, roughly 55% of construction projects already use this technology — a testament to its potential.
Typically, drones are remote-operated, but newer versions can also fly autonomously, often following a preprogrammed route. Cameras in the air cover blind spots conventional CCTV might have. In addition to scanning for suspicious activity, they can use machine vision to recognize the fall hazards that contribute to 38% of worksite deaths today.
Some drones come equipped with advanced sensors, not just video cameras. They may have lidar systems, radar or thermal imaging capabilities to expand their utility on the jobsite. Today’s drones also have longer-lasting batteries and efficient rotors to keep them in the air for extended periods.
Cloud Software
Software innovations also provide security benefits to construction teams. Cloud platforms are particularly beneficial, as they provide a place to store and use the data you generate from other technologies like drones and cameras.
Unlike conventional storage solutions, the cloud is accessible from anywhere on any device. Many systems can also connect to cameras or smart sensors to automatically upload and store important security data, removing the efficiency and error issues of older methods. Edge computing pushes the cloud’s accessibility and speed even further. Edge servers deliver latencies of just 10 milliseconds to 58% of users — something the conventional cloud can only do for 29% of users.
Cloud software also comes with built-in security features, including automated encryption and breach detection functions. Such protections become increasingly valuable as construction becomes a larger target for cybercriminals.
Renewable Energy for On-Site Security Hardware
Construction security hardware also benefits from renewable energy. The building sector accounts for 38% of all CO2 emissions globally, and using a higher number of devices means higher electricity consumption, which relies on fossil fuels. Consequently, green alternatives can make a considerable impact.
Some cameras have built-in solar panels, which can charge enough during the day to sustain their batteries through the night. Advances in photovoltaics have also enabled pop-up solar installations construction sites can plug conventional equipment into.
Hydrogen fuel cells are another promising green technology. They convert liquid hydrogen into electricity, producing only water and heat as byproducts. They’re now available in generator form, providing a greener alternative to conventional diesel-powered generators.
Artificial Intelligence
AI is also playing a growing role in construction security. Many of the automated features in next-generation cameras — such as person detection — are a form of AI. However, this is far from the only way the technology can improve site safety.
Predictive analytics models can analyze past data to accurately estimate how events will play out in the future. In a security context, such AI solutions can identify potential risks experienced by previous projects and recommend solutions. Other AI algorithms can monitor wearable devices on workers to identify hazards or unusual behavior in real time.
The industry has only scratched the surface of the myriad ways AI can integrate into the jobsite. While just 1.49% of construction firms have implemented the technology today, rising adoption will lead to further advancement, making it all the more beneficial.
Take Advantage of the Latest Jobsite Security Technologies
These technologies make on-site security more comprehensive and streamlined than ever before. Capitalize on them to enjoy higher safety, fewer losses and faster operations. While no innovation alone is a perfect solution, all yield impressive benefits. Use them in conjunction with one another to take site security into a new era.
Contact us today to learn more about Sensera Systems’ jobsite security solutions.
About Rose Morrison
Rose Morrison is a freelance writer with a passion for sustainable building and innovative construction technologies. She has interviewed dozens of industry professionals to get a closer insight into the current challenges facing the built industry and developing strategies for overcoming them. Rose has over 5 years experience writing in the industry and is the current managing editor of Renovated.com. She also regularly contributes to a number of other publications, such as NCCER, The Safety Mag, and Geospatial World. For more from Rose, you can follow her on Twitter.
