Research on Ethical Risks of Digital Technology and Mitigation Strategies on Smart Construction Sites

With the widespread application of digital technologies on smart construction sites, ethical risks have become increasingly prominent, potentially provoking strong negative public sentiment and impeding the project process. This study investigates the ethical risks associated with digital technologies on smart construction sites and examines the mechanisms shaping public perceptions of these risks. Employing clear set qualitative comparative analysis (csQCA) and analyzing 30 actual cases, the study identifies key combinations of conditions that trigger public perceptions of ethical risk. The results show that high ethical risks on smart construction sites are not attributed to any single condition in a linear fashion, but rather emerge through three distinct pathways. Based on these findings, we recommend that, in promoting the development of smart construction site technologies, stakeholders should enhance technological supervision, strengthen data protection, and improve communication and coordination among all parties in the construction industry. Additionally, it is necessary to establish an ethical governance framework that incorporates the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing dynamic governance and worker participation. This study provides both a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for balancing technological innovation with ethical risk prevention on smart construction site practices.