An IoT-based heat stress management system for the construction industry

Purpose Alarming statistics underscore the pressing need for effective heat stress management strategies for the construction industry. Validated, holistic systems are lacking. This paper presents the usability of a technological solution that generates early warnings to proactively manage heat stress conditions. Design/methodology/approach Theoretical frameworks guiding technology design, development and validation proposed in this paper are based on the principles of technology readiness levels (TRL). The system encompasses two types of heat stress indicators: environmental and workers’ temperature data. Portable weather stations generate a hierarchy of environmental measurements at multiple levels at various work zones. Internet of Things (IoT) enabled smart vests monitor construction workers’ body temperature in real-time. A web-based system and a smartphone app enable data visualization. The system was deployed on residential construction sites, and usability was evaluated using the strong theoretical frameworks of the technology acceptance model (TAM) and System Usability Scale (SUS). Perceptions of both construction workers and management personnel were captured. Findings The usability test provided valuable insights into the effectiveness and practicality of the system. Both construction workers and management provided positive feedback, indicating that the system was user-friendly and enhanced their awareness of thermal conditions on site. The integration of individual temperature monitoring with environmental data has proven to be beneficial for managing heat stress. Originality/value This study contributes by providing a validated innovative system that monitors thermal conditions on construction sites using smart personal protective equipment (PPE) and IoT technology. The proposed system, tailored to the construction industry, enables the combining of personal and environmental data to comprehensively and effectively understand thermal conditions. This approach has the potential to reduce heat-related incidents and improve overall worker safety and productivity.