BIM for Safety: Applying Real-Time Monitoring Technologies to Prevent Falls from Height in Construction

Abstract

There are significant risks in the construction sector, with falls from height identified a greater hazard than in most other industries. Efforts to improve working conditions and reduce accident rates have driven research into real-time monitoring technologies to reduce the risk of falls. The main objective of this research is to review existing real-time monitoring technologies, identify the most relevant, and analyse their benefits and impact on reducing workplace accidents in the construction sector. A systematic review was conducted using PRISMA methodology to investigate the use of real-time monitoring technologies in the construction industry. Only studies specifically investigating real-time fall risk assessment were included. Of the initial 446 articles reviewed, 39 were considered highly relevant to the research objectives. Various wireless and computer vision technologies were identified for real-time worker monitoring, often integrated with BIM to improve workplace safety. The findings suggest that a combination of technologies may produce more effective results for worker monitoring. However, further research is needed to verify the applicability of these technologies on construction sites. © 2025 by the authors.