Towards safer tower crane operations: An innovative knowledge-based decision support system for automated safety risk assessment

Introduction: Tower cranes are commonly employed in construction projects, despite presenting significant hazards to the workforce involved. Method: To address these safety concerns, a Knowledge-Based Decision-Support System for Safety Risk Assessment (KBDSS-SRA) has been developed. The system’s capacity to thoroughly evaluate associated risks is illustrated through its utilization in various construction endeavors. Results: The system accomplishes the following goals: (1) compiles essential risk factors specific to tower crane operations, (2) identifies critical safety risks that jeopardize worker well-being, (3) examines and assesses the identified safety risks, and (4) automates the labor-intensive and error-prone processes of safety risk assessment. The KBDSS-SRA assists safety management personnel in formulating well-grounded decisions and implementing effective measures to enhance the safety of tower crane operations. Practical Applications: This is facilitated by an advanced computerized tool that underscores the paramount significance of safety risks and suggests strategies for their future mitigation.