Interactive safety training: A technological tool for fall protection on construction sites

Abstract

Technology is evolving at a rapid pace, yet the way individuals in the field of Civil Engineering are tested on their acquired knowledge has stayed relatively stagnant. Written tests on paper have evolved to tests on the computer, but this is just the start to a vast array of possible future testing methods. Additionally, people crave the interaction which technology provides, thus to ensure that individuals are getting the most out of their learning, we must embrace technology and move testing to the future. Due to the familiarity with technology and daily game play, a tool focusing on fall protection on the construction site was developed using Unity. It focused on investigating the ability to increase users understanding of safety procedures, while testing knowledge proficiency. Portraying the importance of safety through this tool could be the key to lowering accident and death rates on the construction site. This will also be a means to improving individual's understanding of what constitutes a successfully safe construction environment, while satisfying the craving for technology. The assessment of the effectiveness of this tool was evaluated through a survey taken by undergraduate students, graduate students, and professors/academic instructors at The Ohio State University, as well as by professionals in the field. Testing gauged three items: errors in the tool, effectiveness as a learning tool through the level of interaction and engagement, and potential for expansion to multiple safety topics as an alternate testing format. Ideal results of the assessment include viable interest in the tool through engagement and ease of use. Simultaneously, the tool is geared towards seeking improvements for further development as a potential technological advancement for teaching and evaluating construction skill proficiency.