Towards safer tower crane operations: An innovative knowledge-based decision support system for automated safety risk assessment.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Tower cranes are commonly employed in construction projects, despite presenting significant hazards to the workforce involved. METHOD: To address these safety concerns, a Knowledge-Based Decision-Support System for Safety Risk Assessment (KBDSS-SRA) has been developed. The system's capacity to thoroughly evaluate associated risks is illustrated through its utilization in various construction endeavors. RESULTS: The system accomplishes the following goals (1) compiles essential risk factors specific to tower crane operations, (2) identifies critical safety risks that jeopardize worker well-being, (3) examines and assesses the identified safety risks, and (4) automates the labor-intensive and error-prone processes of safety risk assessment. The KBDSS-SRA assists safety management personnel in formulating well-grounded decisions and implementing effective measures to enhance the safety of tower crane operations. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS This is facilitated by an advanced computerized tool that underscores the paramount significance of safety risks and suggests strategies for their future mitigation.