The Hong Kong SAR government has appointed Arup to provide consultancy services on its efforts to boost construction site safety using ‘smart’ digital systems.
Arup was appointed via the government’s Electrical & Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) for a study on the application programming interface (API) and data standardisation of its Smart Site Safety System (SSSS).
To drive excellence in construction site safety, the government has been actively promoting the adoption of smart technologies on construction sites. As part of the initiative, EMSD is developing a centralised SSSS platform to manage public works effectively.
A common data framework is crucial to ensure consistency across construction sites and projects, enabling seamless integration and communication between different systems, and improving the efficiency of data processing and analysis.
Sankar S Villupuram, director and East Asia digital services leader at Arup, said: “Creating a safe, healthy and secure work environment that prioritises worker wellbeing is of utmost importance. We’re proud to support this project, reinforcing the government’s commitment to construction site safety through smart technologies.”
The study focuses on two common types of public works construction sites in Hong Kong: Building works and civil works.
Leveraging its expertise in digital services and multidisciplinary capabilities, Arup will conduct a comprehensive study on the best practices, policies, standards and development trends related to SSSS technologies in Hong Kong, China and worldwide.
Based on the extensive research, a common data framework will be developed, incorporating technical requirements for standardised data exchange and communication protocols.
This project is expected to significantly enhance data interoperability and streamline communication among stakeholders and government departments. Moreover, its potential extension to other types of public works construction sites and applications could pave the way for a comprehensive common data framework across all public works.
This initiative will also drive the widespread adoption of smart technologies on construction sites while enhancing project management and overall efficiency.
Image credit: Peshkova/Shutterstock
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