A Review of Human–Robot Collaboration Safety in Construction

Integrating human–robot collaboration (HRC) into construction sites has significantly enhanced efficiency and quality. However, it also introduces new or intensifies existing risks as it brings in new entities, relationships, and construction activities. Safety remains the top priority and a persistent concern in HRC systems. However, the current literature on human–robot collaboration safety (HRCS) is vast yet fragmented, and a systematic exploration of its status and research trends in the construction context is still lacking. This paper explores advances in HRCS over the past two decades through a mixed quantitative and qualitative analysis method. Initially, 287 related articles were identified by keyword-searching in Scopus, followed by bibliometric analysis using CiteSpace to uncover the knowledge structure and track emerging research trends. Subsequently, a qualitative discussion highlights achievements in HRCS across five dimensions: (1) optimization of remote intelligent machinery; (2) hazard analysis and risk assessment in HRCS; (3) digital twin for safety monitoring; (4) cognitive and psychological impacts; (5) organizational management perspective. This study quantitatively maps the scientific landscape of HRCS at a macro level and qualitatively identifies key research areas. It provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding the evolution of HRCS and exploring future research directions and applications.