Blind spots identification in construction projects using virtual reality method: VIBSIM model

The Construction sector is nearly the most dangerous land-based work compared to other sectors. In the European Union, the fatal accident rate is nearly 13 workers per 100,000 compared to 5 per 100,000 for the entire sector average. Countries such as the USA and Turkey are in the same situation as well. Equipment related deaths account for about 25% of all construction fatalities in the construction sector. One leading cause for equipment related incidents is blind spots. Blind spots are prevalent around most construction equipment, inhibiting the operator's visibility of personnel and vital materials on jobsites. Among these, the problem is that blind spots are so difficult to handle in such an unstable atmosphere as the construction environment. Automation methods for blind spot identification have been used by other sectors such as automotive for about eight years. Statistical results shows some significant decrease about accident rate in these sectors. Still these methods are not being used as often as they need to be. In this study, The Virtual Blind Spot Identification System (VIBSIM) has been designed to overcome problems caused by blind spots in construction projects. VIBSIM is aimed to fully clarify construction blind spots in order to prevent hazards. VIBSIM is a totally computer based virtual identification system, with its purpose being to identify and examine blind spots in construction and construction related areas. This model is a virtual point cloud made by using software such as 3Ds Max in integration with a Vray rendering motor. VIBSIM model results are easy to use and fully comprehensible for every user with general knowledge of construction. Furthermore, point clouds are accessible from anywhere just by having result files and a small software. Early testing results show that operators have become more aware of hazards in their job site by examining VIBSIM point clouds. VIBSIM is in its early stage of progress and expected to cover more areas and become fully automatic in the near future.