Under the Hard Hat

Category: Technology

  • 7 apps to make construction sites safer

    7 apps to make construction sites safer

    Making a job site safe requires dozens of factors, including guidelines, checklists, safety meetings, hazard reductions, and incident reporting. Getting the job done is easier when you have handy apps in your pocket, purpose-built to audit noise levels, ensure safe excavations, help perform first aid, or conduct safety meetings. FieldLens, Safesite, and NIOSH Sound Level Meter App are some available construction safety apps that make job site safety easy. 

    The role of safety on site

    Construction sites can be dangerous places, with serious risk of injury from heavy machinery accidents, falls, dropped objects, trenching, and excavations. In 2022, the construction industry reported 169,000 workplace injuries and the second-highest rate of workplace fatalities. 

    Failing to take appropriate safety measures can still be costly, even when no one gets hurt. OSHA penalties can cost anywhere between $15,000 – $152,000, making it crucial to take advantage of every tool to make the process easier.  

    7 construction safety apps to improve job site safety

    FieldLens

    Find it here: App Store | Google Play 

    When identifying and addressing safety issues on site, the last thing you want is a jumble of emails, texts, inspection reports, and pictures. FieldLens helps aggregate all of this information into one app, allowing users to collaborate by posting safety issues, communicating updates with photos and plan markups, simplifying documentation and compliance, and assigning tasks and punch list items in real-time as they walk the job site.

    Safesite

    Find it here: App Store | Google Play

    Keeping the worksite safe and compliant is just one part of the job. The other (more tedious) part is all the paperwork that comes with it. Safesite lets users keep safety data like inspections, checklists, and incident reports in one digital space. Users can access pre-loaded inspection templates or upload their own to customize the experience. They can even assign safety inspections to different team members and track their results in real-time. 

    US customers can also streamline OSHA compliance with SafeSite’s one-click OSHA 300 logging of severe incidents. This feature allows users to easily download, post, or share reports with stakeholders. 

    SafeSite says its app can save up to 8 hours per week and reduce workplace incidents by 57%. The free version is fairly robust, and some additional features (like OSHA recordkeeping and continual compliance reporting) are available in the paid Premium and Foresight plans.

    NIOSH Ladder Safety

    Find it here: App Store | Google Play

    If you’ve ever seen one of your crew teetering on top of a wobbly ladder, this app is for you—and, more importantly, for your coworkers. The NIOSH Ladder Safety App provides an angle measuring tool to help users set up ladders at the correct angle, using feedback cues from sounds, images, and vibration.

    The app also provides a ladder setup checklist and rules for safe ladder use. If you’ve ever felt unsure what ladder to use for a job, the selection tool also displays the minimum required ladder duty rating based on the user and the task. This free app is available in both English and Spanish.

    National Trench Safety

    Find it here: App Store 

    According to OSHA, trenching and excavations are two of the most dangerous construction operations due to the risk of cave-ins or collapses that can cause severe injury or death. This is why OSHA requires every excavation to complete periodic safety checklists, and the National Trench Safety (NTS) Mobile App offers a mobile excavation checklist for users to complete, save, and share easily. 

    Users can also access tabulated data for manufacturer’s shoring or shielding systems, quickly determine what equipment is needed for each project, and refer to soil classification, sloping, and benching charts as required. This free app puts all relevant information in your hands instead of in a binder back in the trailer, which means less guesswork, more precision, and a safer job site.

    NIOSH Sound Level Meter App

    Find it here: App Store 

    Between accidents, falls, and dangerous excavations, noise levels aren’t typically at the top of most people’s safety concerns. Still, around 25% of noise-exposed construction workers have a hearing impairment that affects daily life. 

    The NIOSH Sound Level Meter App is a simple construction safety app that allows users to measure noise on the job site to determine whether it poses a hearing risk or exceeds recommended levels. It is free to download but only available for iOS devices.

    Safety Meeting App

    Find it here: App Store | Google Play

    Few people look forward to safety meetings, but they’re necessary for keeping job sites safe. The Safety Meeting App makes conducting these vital sessions a little easier. With over 1500 safety meeting topics, users can fulfill their OSHA meeting requirements.

    The Safety Meeting App helps users apply safety meeting information on the job site, with customizable safety checklists to ensure site safety and compliance. The app also allows users to document incidents with pictures, notes, and log details for seamless reporting.

    Red Cross First Aid App

    Find it here: App Store | Google Play

    Most worksite safety processes are geared toward anticipating, preventing, and eliminating safety concerns, but accidents can happen even on the safest job sites. If the worst-case scenario does occur, the Red Cross First Aid App can help you respond quickly and efficiently to minimize injury. 

    This free construction safety app offers information, quizzes, videos, and step-by-step guides to help manage emergencies. It also locates your nearest hospital so you can get help from the pros.

  • Why thousands trust Document Crunch with their contracts

    Why thousands trust Document Crunch with their contracts

    Document Crunch is an AI-driven platform that simplifies legal contract understanding. Its program is designed to increase the efficiency of the contract review process and support project execution by enabling teams to understand and comply with critical contract provisions to mitigate risk.

    Any good lawyer will tell you to review your contracts with a fine-toothed comb before signing them, but no one ever mentions how long that can take or how hard it is to decipher convoluted legalese and understand what you’re reading. 

    This can become a big problem in construction because every project involves multiple contracts—they’re long, complicated, and pose a significant pain point, wasting precious time and money.

    Document Crunch plans to change that. They’ve developed a solution that simplifies the complex language of contracts, making them simple to understand, revise, sign, and comply with.

    For many companies, this is a lifesaver. In a survey, Document Crunch found that 60% of respondents take more than a day to review a contract, and 75% said that they were a “pain in the butt to review.” However, uploading a contract to Document Crunch and its AI-driven platform can help you reduce review time by 80%, providing an in-depth summary and highlighting any relevant issues, omissions, or provisions. It also standardizes your contract review process, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.

    The Insights feature makes it easy to understand what you’re signing—spelling out the contract terms, risks, and critical provisions (plus any missing provisions). Making changes gets easier, too. Instead of sorting through endless email chains to ask questions or approve revisions, you can markup, comment, or redline right within the platform—or open the chat to ask questions, clarify terms, and help draft revisions. 

    Of course, signing the contract is only part of the process—now, you have to make sure you stick to the terms. To ensure compliance and avoid contract breaches, the Document Crunch Project Playbook empowers your team with detailed information about adhering to contract terms and ensuring compliance. Instead of re-reading the entire contract to figure out how to deal with a weather delay, your team can simply check their Playbook.

    Document Crunch streamlines the process from start to finish, making contracts quicker to review, more straightforward to understand, and easier to comply with.

  • Exploring Wolf Ranch: A community of 3D-printed homes now underway in Texas

    Exploring Wolf Ranch: A community of 3D-printed homes now underway in Texas

    Wolf Ranch, located in Georgetown, Texas, is setting a new standard in residential construction. Built by Lennar and ICON and co-designed by BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group), the innovative, 100-home community (named the “Genesis Collection”) uses advanced materials, engineering, and 3D-printing technology, making each structure strong, resilient, and energy-efficient. Wolf Ranch was designed to offer sustainable and affordable homes in the wake of a massive housing crisis.

    Rendering of 3D printed homes at Wolf Ranch. Photo source: ICON Build.

    ICON, a leader in advanced construction technologies, uses a 46-foot-wide Vulcan printer and their proprietary Lavacrete material to create the 3D-printed homes at Wolf Ranch. Each home has modern ranch-style aesthetics, offering energy-efficient features and innovative architectural designs. Using additive construction allows for a more environmentally friendly process, producing homes at scale with less waste and greater design flexibility.

    “For the first time in the history of the world, what we’re witnessing here is a fleet of robots building an entire community of homes,” said ICON’s co-founder and CEO, Jason Ballard. “Not just any homes, but homes that are better in every way… better design, higher strength, higher energy performance and comfort, and increased resiliency.” Ballard sees this project as a “watershed moment” in community-scale development, marking the beginning of a new era in housing construction.

    ICON Vulcan 3D printer constructing homes at Wolf Ranch. Photo source: ICON Build.

    Lennar, one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, also emphasized the importance of innovation in addressing the housing shortage. “It has never been more important to innovate in order to find new methods of construction that will enable greater design flexibility and production at affordable prices,” stated Stuart Miller, Lennar’s Executive Chairman. The homes at Wolf Ranch, starting in the mid-$400,000s, showcase Lennar’s commitment to sustainability and affordability.

    The master-planned community offers eight floorplans, ranging between 1,574 and 2,112 square feet, with three to four bedrooms and two to three bathrooms. All homes feature rooftop solar panels and are equipped with Lennar’s Connected Home package, which includes smart home technologies and a proprietary Wolf Ranch security package.

    In addition to its innovative construction, Wolf Ranch provides residents access to tree-covered hill country amenities, including pools, recreational trails, and parks. “The Georgetown community prides itself on honoring our past and innovating for our future,” said Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder. “We are eager to see the future being built right here.”

    Wolf Ranch represents a forward-thinking model for residential developments, illustrating how technology and sustainability can coexist to create modern and environmentally conscious homes.

  • Foresight and BuilderX collaborate for remote-controlled operation systems for construction equipment

    Foresight and BuilderX collaborate for remote-controlled operation systems for construction equipment

    Foresight Autonomous Holdings Ltd. and BuilderX have announced a multi-phase collaboration agreement to enhance safety and operational efficiency in hazardous industrial environments. After successfully completing a proof-of-concept (POC) project, the two companies will integrate Foresight’s 3D perception technology into BuilderX’s AI-driven teleoperation systems for heavy machinery. This system lets operators remotely control and monitor equipment, providing real-time feedback using multiple cameras mounted on machinery.

    The technology is particularly valuable in environments where operators face exposure to toxic chemicals, severe dust, or poor visibility. The partnership aims to significantly reduce accidents and health hazards by removing operators from these high-risk zones. In addition to visible-light cameras, future integration plans include both visible-light and thermal cameras, which could eventually enable fully autonomous heavy machinery operations under harsh conditions.

    Shaolong Sui, CEO of BuilderX, highlighted the importance of this partnership in addressing the unique challenges of hazardous work environments. He stated, “As hazardous environments pose significant challenges for heavy machinery, we believe that our collaboration with Foresight will provide our equipment with the advanced AI capabilities needed to navigate these demanding conditions and deliver exceptional performance.”

    Oren Bar-On, CEO of Foresight Asia, added, “We are excited to partner with BuilderX to bring our advanced 3D perception technology to the heavy machinery industry. This collaboration will enable us to leverage our expertise and enable heavy machinery to operate reliably and safely in even the most extreme conditions.”

    The benefits of using AI and tech in the construction industry

    By implementing Foresight and BuilderX’s AI and 3D perception technology, companies can see significant cost reductions through several vital benefits:

    • Lower labor costs: Reduced need for on-site operators due to remote-controlled and autonomous systems.
    • Decreased insurance premiums: Fewer workplace accidents lead to lower insurance expenses.
    • Operational efficiency: Improved precision and reduced downtime cut maintenance and fuel costs.
    • Increased productivity: Autonomous equipment enables continuous operations in harsh environments without human intervention.

    The partnership represents the growing integration of AI and 3D perception technology in construction, offering new solutions for improved safety and performance across the industry​. As technology advances, fully autonomous operations could become the industry standard, driving further innovation and cost-efficiency.

  • Smart PPE in construction: Benefits, costs, and challenges

    Smart PPE in construction: Benefits, costs, and challenges

    The construction industry has always relied on personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure worker safety. However, as safety concerns grow, so does the need for innovative solutions. Smart PPE is transforming construction safety, offering real-time monitoring and enhanced safety protocols that incorporate advanced technology and go beyond traditional methods.

    What is smart PPE?

    In recent years, technological and scientific advancements have focused more on incorporating cutting-edge safety technologies, like sensor-based systems and advanced materials, to improve safety protocols on construction sites. That’s where Smart PPE comes in. Smart PPE combines wearable sensors, GPS, and IoT devices (which are designed for specific tasks and transmit data via the Internet or other networks) to continuously track workers’ health and environmental conditions in real time. This technology allows safety management to move from reactive to proactive approaches.

    Benefits of smart PPE in construction

    1. Better safety outcomes

    Smart PPE offers significant safety improvements over traditional gear. With built-in sensors and real-time monitoring, these devices can detect hazards such as harmful gasses, extreme temperatures, or fatigue. For example, smart helmets can track a worker’s body temperature and alert them when they are at risk of heat exhaustion, prompting immediate action to prevent serious illness. This proactive approach helps reduce workplace injuries and ensures a safer environment for workers.

    2. Increased efficiency

    Smart PPE improves safety and enhances efficiency on the construction site. By automating safety checks and monitoring, supervisors can focus more on critical tasks like hazard assessments and training. Integrating smart technologies also reduces administrative burdens and improves compliance with safety regulations. Tools like GPS-enabled vests help track worker locations, optimizing workflow and communication across large job sites.

    3. Data-driven insights

    One of the most valuable aspects of smart PPE is its ability to collect data, which can be analyzed to identify patterns and trends. This data can help construction managers make informed decisions about safety protocols, identify areas of risk, and implement corrective measures before incidents occur. For example, by tracking PPE usage, managers can spot compliance gaps and ensure workers adhere to safety guidelines, thus fostering accountability.

    4. Real-time communication

    Smart PPE facilitates real-time communication between workers and supervisors, especially in hazardous environments. Devices like smart glasses allow workers to send alerts hands-free, while integrated sensors can notify teams of incidents immediately. This instant communication ensures faster response times in emergencies and helps prevent accidents.

    What’s new in smart PPE

    As workplace safety continues to evolve, smart PPE is at the forefront of innovation, offering new tools to protect workers like never before. Cutting-edge technologies like smart helmets and exoskeletons are finally making it to market, helping reduce fatigue and enhance work capabilities.

    Exoskeletons

    Photo source: German Bionics

    Exoskeletons are transforming physically demanding tasks on construction sites by providing workers with enhanced strength and support. For example, the Hilti EXO-01 is a lightweight, passive exoskeleton that reduces fatigue during overhead work. It’s electricity-free, making it perfect for tasks like installing drywall or piping. German Bionics exoskeletons are designed like full-body suits to help construction workers reduce physical strain, particularly during heavy lifting, bending, and other labor-intensive tasks. These wearable devices offer up to 80 lbs of weight compensation, easing the burden on workers’ backs and reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, which are common in construction environments.

    Smart helmets

    Photo source: XYZ Reality

    Smart helmets are transforming construction safety by leveraging cutting-edge technologies. XYZ Reality’s Atom AR helmet is designed for precise alignment on construction sites, projecting 3D augmented reality models overlaid onto the actual build. This ensures workers follow design specifications accurately, minimizing errors and improving project timelines. JePower’s 5G Smart Hard Hat features live streaming, environmental monitoring, and real-time hazard detection, making it essential for maintaining constant communication and safety alerts in fast-paced or hazardous environments.

    Smart/AR glasses

    Photo source: Vuzix

    Augmented Reality (AR) glasses are becoming increasingly valuable for construction workers. The Vuzix Blade, a leading AR wearable, overlays real-time data like 3D models and blueprints directly into a worker’s field of view. This helps with precision and cuts down on errors. In addition, integrating with platforms like Topcon’s MAGNET software improves the ability to communicate on demand, ensuring that projects are completed faster and with fewer errors.

    Wearable tech

    Photo source: Blackline Safety

    Wearable technology also enhances safety and efficiency in industries like construction and mining. Kenzen’s wearable strap monitors workers’ core body temperature, heart rate, and sweat to detect signs of heat stress and prevent fatigue-related incidents. This data-driven solution helps managers intervene before health issues escalate. Blackline Safety’s G7 wearables focus on gas detection and lone worker protection by providing real-time environmental monitoring, location tracking, and automatic alerts.

    The challenges of adopting smart PPE

    As innovative as smart PPE is, its adoption comes with notable challenges. These range from high initial costs and technical complexities to data privacy and worker acceptance concerns. Overcoming these hurdles is essential to fully realize the safety and efficiency benefits that smart PPE promises on job sites.

    Cost

    One of the primary challenges of adopting smart PPE in the construction industry is the high upfront cost. For example, exoskeletons like the Hilti EXO-01 typically cost around $1,500 to $2,000. More advanced models, such as the German Bionics full-body powered exoskeleton, can cost as much as $9,900 due to the high level of integration and capabilities it offers. However, smaller products like smart helmets and wearables can range from $200 to $500, making them much more reasonable to adopt, even for smaller construction companies.

    Training

    Another obstacle is the need for proper training to ensure that workers can effectively use smart PPE. Many construction workers are familiar with traditional equipment, and adopting new technology requires time and resources to educate the workforce. For instance, devices like the Vuzix Blade AR glasses demand a learning curve to interpret heads-up displays while navigating job sites. Without adequate training, workers may resist or fail to leverage the technology’s full potential​.

    Privacy concerns

    The collection of real-time data through wearable devices introduces significant privacy concerns. Smart helmets, exoskeletons, and biometric monitoring systems continuously collect data on workers’ health, location, and performance. While this data can improve safety, it raises issues about how the information is used and stored. Employers must establish clear data protection policies to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain workers’ trust​.

    Integration with existing systems

    Integrating smart PPE with a company’s existing infrastructure is another challenge. Many construction firms still use manual safety protocols and traditional communication systems. The shift to smart technology, which often requires syncing devices like smart helmets and wearables with centralized management systems, can be complicated. Ensuring these technologies work seamlessly across a job site without causing disruption requires careful planning and investment in compatible systems.

    Bottom line

    Adopting smart PPE in construction is undeniably transformative, offering significant safety enhancements and operational efficiencies. However, the high upfront costs remain a barrier, particularly for advanced devices like exoskeletons and smart helmets. While these technologies can reduce long-term injuries and improve productivity, their success depends heavily on proper worker training and seamless integration with existing systems. Ultimately, as costs decrease and technology advances, smart PPE has the potential to become a staple in construction. Still, the industry must balance its benefits with the financial and logistical challenges that come with it. ​​

  • Top apps to streamline construction projects

    Top apps to streamline construction projects

    The construction industry has seen rapid technological advancements, making it easier to manage projects, teams, and equipment. With countless apps like Trade Hounds, Skillit, and Builder Trend now available, professionals can tackle common construction challenges more efficiently. 

    Why we love apps

    Construction apps have revolutionized how the industry handles everyday tasks, offering significant improvements in efficiency and sustainability. In the past, construction sites were often cluttered with paperwork, including blueprints, schedules, and project reports, which were prone to loss or damage. 

    Now, with mobile apps, all essential information is stored digitally and can be accessed in real-time by anyone involved in the project, from on-site workers to project managers in the office. By digitizing previously manual and paper-heavy processes, these apps have dramatically reduced paper waste, increased efficiency, and reduced error.

    But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here are a few more key ways apps have transformed the construction industry:

    • Real-time access: Key project information can be updated and accessed instantly, keeping both on-site workers and office teams in sync without delays.
    • Streamlined material tracking: Automated systems track material deliveries, reducing delays and optimizing supply chain management.
    • Enhanced equipment management: Apps monitor equipment availability, maintenance schedules, and usage patterns, ensuring better resource allocation and fewer downtime issues.
    • Improved collaboration: Teams can assign tasks, share documents, and monitor progress through project management apps, preventing miscommunication and costly delays.

    The best construction apps for common construction problems

    Hiring

    Hiring the right skilled workers is crucial for any construction project. With the rise of digital hiring platforms, companies can now easily connect with qualified candidates with the necessary skills and experience. These apps streamline hiring, helping companies fill roles quickly and efficiently.

    • Skillit: Skillit offers a data-driven platform that connects contractors with a vetted pool of craft workers. With over 30,000 workers onboard and growing, companies can filter candidates by location, skills, pay expectations, and more. 
    • Trade Hounds: A mobile job site for tradespeople, Trade Hounds allows workers to create profiles and showcase their work history and skills. Employers can use the platform to post job openings and connect directly with vetted tradespeople across the U.S. 
    • Faber Connect: Faber is designed to streamline the hiring process by quickly matching construction companies with skilled labor. With Faber, companies can access a database of pre-vetted workers ready to fill specific roles, reducing the time spent on interviews and onboarding.

    Project management

    Effective project management is crucial in the construction industry, and modern software solutions can help streamline operations and ensure that tasks are completed on time and within budget. Below are some top project management apps.

    • SMARTBUILD: SMARTBUILD is designed by construction professionals with decades of hands-on experience, making it an intuitive and comprehensive platform. It handles everything from RFIs, change orders, submittals, and contracts with ease. Its Critical Completion Monitor helps subcontractors manage complex project details efficiently, reducing crisis management and improving team collaboration. SMARTBUILD’s focus on simplicity and affordability, without compromising on features, makes it the best overall choice for construction project management​.
    • Buildertrend: Buildertrend is a cloud-based project management tool that simplifies scheduling, client communication, and document sharing. It is particularly popular among homebuilders and remodeling companies, offering tools for estimates, change orders, and client management.
    • Raken: Raken focuses on daily reporting, time tracking, and photo documentation. It’s a good option for field teams that must capture real-time updates and generate reports quickly.
    • Procore: Procore is one of the industry’s most well-known project management platforms. It covers everything from budgeting to quality control and safety compliance, making it a comprehensive choice for large-scale projects.

    Asset tracking

    Construction asset tracking is essential to ensure that valuable equipment, tools, and machinery are always accounted for, maintained properly, and available when needed. These apps provide comprehensive solutions to track everything from large machinery to small tools, reducing the likelihood of lost assets and improving overall project efficiency.

    • Tenna: Tenna’s asset tracking platform helps construction companies manage and monitor their entire fleet, from heavy machinery to small tools. It provides real-time location data, maintenance alerts, and equipment utilization insights, helping companies streamline asset management and improve project outcomes.​
    • Trackunit: Trackunit specializes in telematics and asset tracking for heavy construction equipment. The app offers live GPS tracking, usage analytics, and maintenance alerts to prevent downtime. It helps construction companies keep their machinery in top condition by monitoring location, operational hours, and more.
    • ShareMyToolbox: ShareMyToolbox is focused on managing small tools and inventory within a construction environment. This app enables teams to share tools across sites, track their condition, and maintain accountability for their whereabouts.
    • CompanyCam: CompanyCam allows contractors to capture and share photos in real time. The app organizes photos by project, tags them with timestamps and GPS data, and offers team collaboration features. This is particularly useful for tracking progress, documenting issues, and providing clients with a visual work record.​

    Timesheets, documentation, and invoicing

    Tracking work hours, documenting tasks, and managing payments is critical for any construction business. These apps streamline the process, offering features like professional estimates, GPS tracking, and real-time updates to help manage teams and tasks more effectively.

    • Joist: Joist is an all-in-one payment solution for contractors, offering tools to create professional estimates and invoices and collect payments online. The app allows users to customize estimates and invoices with their logos, track payments, and even offer financing options to clients. Additionally, Joist integrates with QuickBooks, making bookkeeping easier for small businesses.
    • ClockShark: ClockShark is one of the leading time-tracking apps for construction and field service companies. It offers GPS tracking, allowing managers to see where their teams are in real-time, track job progress, and manage time sheets. 
    • Fluix: Fluix is a powerful platform for digitizing documents and automating workflows. Designed for field teams, it allows businesses to track documentation, create customized workflows, and automate processes such as safety inspections or compliance reports. 

    While this list covers several construction apps, countless others are transforming the industry. These tools offer real-time solutions to everyday construction challenges, from improving collaboration and reducing paperwork to streamlining tasks like time tracking, invoicing, and project management. Companies that embrace and become proficient with these apps are more likely to remain competitive and adapt to the future of construction management.

  • Companies using AI to make job sites safer

    Companies using AI to make job sites safer

    Artificial intelligence (AI) models can write and create art; now, companies are leveraging the power of AI to use on construction sites. From alerting site managers of missing PPE to autonomously controlling heavy machinery, AI technology is increasing job site safety, accuracy, and efficiency. Dozer, AIM, and AlwaysAI are some companies leading the way in AI-driven workplace safety.

    AI in construction

    Construction isn’t necessarily the first industry you’d think of when envisioning how AI can be applied in the real world. Still, in recent years, innovative companies have shown how useful it can be.

    • Project planning: AI programs can reduce errors and expedite the planning process by analyzing environmental, material, and regulatory data, making the process simple and seamless. 
    • Project management: Assisting with accurate costing, estimating, risk management, and monitoring construction progress takes many onerous project management tasks and leverages the power of AI to get them done quicker and easier.
    • Robotics and autonomous machinery: AI-operated heavy equipment, robotic devices that can create accurate design layouts, and robots to handle dangerous construction tasks—AI is moving beyond the screen and into the job site to make construction safer and more consistent. 
    • Safety monitoring: Artificial intelligence software can detect when workers have failed to protect themselves by wearing appropriate PPE and monitor sites for human collisions, safety risks, and hazards.  

    Human beings are fallible. We make mistakes, miss details, and forget to wear PPE; our decision-making and cognitive abilities are affected by a poor night’s sleep, worries about loved ones, or extreme weather conditions. Conversely, AI provides a consistent, accurate source of data, tracking, and information. Here are four companies leveraging the power of artificial intelligence models to make worksites safer.

    4 companies using AI to improve job site safety

    Dozer

    Like an AI-powered dashcam for your construction equipment, Dozer cameras provide a 360-degree view of each machine it’s installed on at the construction site, including the cabin and bucket. In addition to a live video feed you can access remotely anytime, Dozer uses an artificial intelligence platform to document collisions, near misses, and human proximity and calculate each machine’s risk level. All information is compiled in an easy-to-read dashboard, allowing you to track machine operations remotely.  

    Dozer also sends safety alerts about incidents or close calls, ensuring that you are notified about accidents in real-time without waiting for an incident report after the fact.  

    The Dozer system is easily installed with included wire management, sensor clips, and camera mounts, and requires a 12-volt power source. The platform is available for desktops and as an app for iPhones and Android devices.

    AIM

    Bellevue, Washington-based AIM has created an AI program capable of operating heavy construction equipment, including bulldozers, excavators, and skid steers. By enabling AIM, heavy equipment becomes fully autonomous and can operate day and night in any weather.

    The autonomous system can be retrofitted to older machinery, installed in a day, and allows users to operate in three modes: fully autonomous, via remote control, or manually with an operator. 

    Although AIM has experienced no accidents to date, its website pre-empts concerns about safety and insurance by stating that every AIM-enabled machine is insured for autonomous operation by a global insurance company.

    AlwaysAI

    Always AI creates pioneering solutions in a wide variety of industries, including restaurants, retail, mining, and construction. Their AI software uses cameras to identify risks, safety issues, and potential liabilities on construction sites, making projects safer.

    AlwaysAI Smart Construction uses existing cameras to identify workers not wearing appropriate PPE, monitor entry gates and other site access points, provide information about site occupancy numbers, and track project progress, including machine idle time. All data is updated in real-time and accessible through the SmartAI software, allowing users to manage projects quickly and efficiently.  

    Dusty Robotics

    This aptly named company leverages AI and robotics to help create multi-trade design layouts for build sites. Its AI platform reduces total layout time, shortens traditional building methods by 60%, and does everything with 95% precision.

    The Dusty Robotics device maps looks like a miniature Zamboni and traverses job sites and building interiors to create accurate layouts. It can map up to 15,000 square feet daily with a single operator up to 1/16” accuracy. The AI-powered model shortens design time, eliminates errors and inaccuracies, and provides tailored layouts for each trade, virtually eliminating accidents due to inaccurate plans.

    Using futuristic tech to make job sites safer today

    Finding innovative ways to apply AI-powered technology allows companies to make projects run more efficiently while also protecting workers. Artificial intelligence can identify hazards, recognize potential accidents, and ensure proper safety protocols are followed, making it one of the most valuable tools on any job site. 

  • DroneDeploy launches Safety AI

    DroneDeploy launches Safety AI

    DroneDeploy’s new Safety AI software is setting a new standard for risk detection in construction. It offers enhanced job site safety through cutting-edge technology. By automating safety checks, identifying potential hazards, and providing real-time risk data, the platform empowers construction managers to maintain a safer work environment. 

    Video source: DroneDeploy.

    Key features and benefits of Safety AI

    DroneDeploy’s Safety AI offers automated safety risk detection, which uses AI to identify hazards across the job site. The software scans for common dangers like unprotected edges or improper use of safety gear, making it easier for managers to address problems before they lead to accidents. Safety AI also offers real-time data analytics, providing insights into how safety standards are being met. This feature allows managers to track safety metrics, ensuring ongoing compliance and minimizing risks.

    Another significant feature is the software’s ability to create detailed safety reports. These reports include photos and data points collected from drones and cameras, which can be shared across teams for faster response times. These reports also help improve safety audits and support training efforts by documenting where and how safety risks are most likely to occur on the job site.

    Improving job site efficiency

    Beyond enhancing safety, DroneDeploy’s Safety AI contributes to improved operational efficiency. By automating the detection of safety violations, the platform saves time for safety managers who would otherwise have to conduct manual inspections. This allows them to focus on other high-priority tasks and ensures that potential hazards are identified much faster.

    Using drones to capture site data also reduces the need for time-consuming walk-throughs. With AI processing the data, safety checks are completed more quickly and accurately, preventing costly delays caused by accidents or regulatory penalties.

    Supporting a safer construction industry

    DroneDeploy’s Safety AI goes beyond just offering new technology—it supports a proactive approach to workplace safety. By automating essential safety processes and providing real-time insights, this software helps construction sites operate more efficiently and with fewer incidents. As the construction industry increasingly focuses on technology and safety, solutions like Safety AI are essential tools to protect workers and reduce risks.

  • Top mental health and wellness apps to improve worker safety on construction sites

    Top mental health and wellness apps to improve worker safety on construction sites

    Mental health apps are great tools for managing stress and anxiety and improving overall well-being. Calm, Daylio Journal, Headspace, and Talkspace were our top picks, but several others came close. 

    Whether you’re looking to practice meditation, improve your sleep, or seek therapy, these apps offer accessible and convenient ways to support your mental health. 

    Our top winners

    Best for Sleep: Calm  

    Calm is our top pick for improving sleep, with its extensive library of sleep stories, guided meditations, and calming music. It can help you create a relaxing bedtime routine that eases you into a restful sleep. With content specifically designed to reduce anxiety and promote tranquility, Calm has earned high ratings for helping users achieve better sleep quality.

    Best for Gratitude: Daylio Journal 

    Daylio Journal is the go-to app for practicing gratitude, thanks to its simple and intuitive mood-tracking and journaling features. You can log your mood, activities, and moments of thankfulness, helping you to foster more gratitude in your daily life. 

    Best for Meditation: Headspace

    Headspace is often considered the best meditation app, particularly for beginners, due to its user-friendly interface and range of guided meditation sessions. The app offers everything from short, daily meditations to more in-depth courses on stress management, mindfulness, and relaxation. 

    Best for Therapy: Talkspace

    Talkspace is widely recognized as the best app for therapy, offering access to licensed therapists through text, audio, and video messaging. What sets Talkspace apart is its convenience and flexibility, allowing users to engage in therapy sessions from the comfort of their homes. 

    Our favorite mental health and wellness apps 

    Calm

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Excellent for meditation and relaxation
    – A wide variety of sleep stories, meditations, and calming music
    – User-friendly interface    		– Can be expensive without a subscription
    – Not all content is available in the free version

    Subscription required: Yes  

    Cost: Free with in-app purchases; Premium subscription costs $69.99/year  

    Free trial: 7 days  

    Features: Meditation sessions, sleep stories, breathing exercises, relaxing music, and daily reminders

    Why we chose it:

    Calm is widely regarded as the best app for meditation and relaxation. With an extensive library of guided meditations, calming music, and sleep stories narrated by well-known voices, it helps users manage stress, anxiety, and insomnia. The soothing design and daily reminders encourage regular practice, making it a top choice for anyone looking to incorporate mindfulness into their daily routine.

    Headspace

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Great for beginners new to meditation
    – Wide range of topics covered, including stress, sleep, and focus
    – Engaging and straightforward teaching style    		– Limited content in the free version
    – The subscription can be pricey for some users

    Subscription required: Yes  

    Cost: Free with in-app purchases; Premium subscription costs $69.99/year  

    Free trial: 7 days  

    Features: Guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, sleep sounds, focus music, and mental health resources

    Why we chose it:

    Headspace is perfect for those new to meditation and mindfulness. The app offers a structured path to learning meditation, starting with the basics and gradually moving on to more advanced techniques. The friendly, approachable teaching style, combined with a broad range of topics, makes it a fantastic resource for mental wellness.

    Daylio Journal

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Simple and intuitive mood tracking
    – Helps identify patterns in emotions and behaviors
    – Customizable entries to track activities, moods, and notes    		– Limited features in the free version
    – Lack of integration with other apps

    Subscription required: Yes  

    Cost: Free with in-app purchases; Premium subscription costs $2.99/month or $23.99/year  

    Free trial: 7 days  

    Features: Mood tracking, activity logs, statistics, goals, and backup options

    Why we chose it:  

    Daylio is a mood-tracking app that allows users to record their emotions and activities daily. By tracking mood patterns, users can gain insight into their mental health and identify triggers for negative emotions. It’s an excellent tool for self-reflection and personal growth.

    Bliss

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Focuses on gratitude and positive psychology exercises
    – Encourages a positive mindset
    – Easy-to-follow exercises and journaling prompts    		– Interface may feel outdated to some users
    – Limited customization options

    Subscription required: No  

    Cost: Free  

    Free trial: No

    Features: Gratitude exercises, positive psychology practices, journaling prompts, and mood tracking

    Why we chose it:  

    Bliss is an app that encourages users to focus on gratitude and positive thinking. Through a series of guided exercises, Bliss helps users shift their mindset toward positivity, promoting overall mental well-being. It’s a simple yet effective tool for anyone looking to practice gratitude regularly.

    Talkspace

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Access to licensed therapists via text, audio, and video
    – Convenient and accessible mental health support
    – Personalized treatment plans    		– Expensive compared to other mental health apps
    – Requires a subscription for full access

    Subscription required: Yes  

    Cost: Starting at $65/week  

    Free trial: No  

    Features: Text, audio, and video therapy sessions, licensed therapists, and personalized treatment plans

    Why we chose it:

    Talkspace is a leading therapy app that connects users with licensed therapists through text, audio, or video sessions. It provides a convenient way to access professional mental health support without needing in-person visits. The personalized treatment plans and ease of access make it a valuable resource for those seeking therapy.

    Sanvello

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Comprehensive mental health support
    – Offers cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) tools
    – Tracks mood, health habits, and goals    		– Limited content in the free version
    – Some features require a subscription

    Subscription required: Yes  

    Cost: Free with in-app purchases; Premium subscription costs $8.99/month  

    Free trial: 7 days  

    Features: Mood tracking, guided journeys, CBT tools, and meditation

    Why we chose it: 

    Sanvello offers a holistic approach to mental health, combining mood tracking, guided journeys, and cognitive-behavioral therapy tools. It’s designed to help users manage stress, anxiety, and depression by providing practical tools and resources. The app’s comprehensive features make it a great all-in-one solution for mental wellness.

    Happify

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Scientifically-backed activities for happiness and stress reduction
    – Interactive and engaging format
    – Focuses on positive psychology    		– Can feel repetitive over time
    – Some activities require a subscription

    Subscription required: Yes  

    Cost: Free with in-app purchases; Premium subscription costs $14.95/month  

    Free trial: 7 days  

    Features: Games, activities, guided meditations, and mood tracking

    Why we chose it:  

    Happify uses positive psychology to help users reduce stress and build resilience. Through games, activities, and guided meditations, Happify promotes happiness and emotional well-being. It’s an interactive and engaging way to improve mental health and develop a positive outlook on life.

    Other apps to consider

    Instagram

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Access to mental health communities and resources
    – Connects users with supportive communities
    – Offers a platform for self-expression    		– Can contribute to social media fatigue
    – May lead to comparison and negative self-image

    Subscription required: No  

    Cost: Free  

    Free trial: No  

    Features: Social networking, mental health communities, and creative expression

    Why we like it:  

    While Instagram is primarily a social media platform, it does offer access to mental health communities and resources. Users can follow accounts dedicated to mental wellness, connect with others facing similar challenges, and find inspiration for self-care and positive mental health practices. 

    YouTube

    What we loveThings to consider
    – Free access to a vast library of mental health content
    – Includes guided meditations, therapy sessions, and wellness tips
    – User-driven content allows for diverse perspectives    		– Quality of content varies
    – Requires self-discipline to avoid distractions

    Subscription required: No  

    Cost: Free with ads; YouTube Premium costs $11.99/month  

    Free trial: 1 month  

    Features: Videos on meditation, therapy, mental health tips, and wellness practices

    Why we like it:

    YouTube offers an extensive collection of mental health resources, from guided meditations to therapy sessions and wellness tips. The platform’s user-driven content allows for a wide range of perspectives and practices, making it a valuable tool for exploring different approaches to mental wellness. However, the quality of content can vary, so it’s essential to choose reliable sources.

    Bottom line

    Taking care of your mental health can feel overwhelming, but the right tools can make all the difference. With so many mental health apps available, it’s easier than ever to find support tailored to your needs, whether improving sleep, practicing gratitude, meditating, or seeking therapy. These apps offer accessible and effective ways to enhance your well-being, making it easier to prioritize your mental health every day.

  • Third-generation TyBot 3.0 is revolutionizing rebar tying

    Third-generation TyBot 3.0 is revolutionizing rebar tying

    The construction industry just got a tech upgrade with the launch of the third-generation TyBot 3.0. Developed by Advanced Construction Robotics (ACR), this latest version of the rebar-tying robot promises to revolutionize concrete construction, making it safer, faster, and more cost-effective.

    TyBot 3.0 is an autonomous robot that ties rebar on bridge decks, concrete pavements, and other reinforced concrete structures. Its sophisticated technology allows it to work without human intervention, using advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to identify rebar intersections and secure them efficiently. TyBOT requires no pre-mapping, programming, or calibration and can automatically locate, position, and tie over 1,200 rebar intersections every hour. This new generation offers improved speed, precision, and flexibility, adapting to different rebar sizes and complex configurations.

    Photo source: Advanced Construction Robotics.

    This next-gen bot addresses several challenges in the construction industry, including labor shortages and worker safety concerns. By automating the labor-intensive and physically demanding task of tying rebar, TyBot 3.0 significantly reduces the risk of injury to workers, especially those exposed to repetitive strain and harsh environmental conditions. Additionally, it enhances project timelines, allowing for faster rebar tying without compromising quality.

    The robot’s efficiency also translates to cost savings, as it can work longer hours without breaks, reducing labor costs and accelerating project completion. For an industry constantly battling tight schedules and budgets, TyBot 3.0 offers a much-needed productivity boost. Taking on tedious tasks frees up skilled workers to focus on more complex, high-value aspects of construction projects.

    As the demand for smart construction solutions grows, TyBot 3.0 sets a new standard for innovation, positioning ACR as a key player in the move toward a more automated, safer, and sustainable construction future.