ASSESSMENT OF SENSOR TECHNOLOGY FOR SAFETY MANAGEMENT OF CONSTRUCTION SITES RISKS IN ONDO AND EKITI STATES, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines the role of sensor technology in preventing personal, environmental, and mechanical risk factors on construction sites in Ondo and Ekiti, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving a questionnaire administered to 144 participants and two focus group discussions with 16 industry professionals. A pilot test established the instrument's high reliability, with a Cronbach's alpha of .94 overall (.79 for PRFs, .84 for MRFs, and .82 for ERFs). Quantitative data analysis revealed a strong consensus among respondents on the critical risk factors, with mean ratings for 15 Personal Risk Factors (PRFs) ranging from 4.23 to 4.76 and 16 Environmental Risk Factors (ERFs) ranging from 3.82 to 4.46. All 19 Mechanical Risk Factors (MRFs) were also agreed upon, ranging from 3.88 to 4.55. ANOVA results showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the perceptions of architects, contractors, and site supervisors for the vast majority of factors (46 out of 50 items), indicating a unified view across professions on the need for sensor-based solutions. Thematic analysis of qualitative data enriched these findings, with participants emphasising technology's role in monitoring worker fatigue, environmental hazards, and equipment failures. This study emphasises the critical need to equip construction personnel with sensor technology, offering a proactive approach to detecting and mitigating risks. Recommendations include establishing a committee for regular safety standard updates, providing government incentives for technology adoption, offering specialised worker training, and fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and technology manufacturers.