[Let's Run Again, Construction Korea] Robots Handle Dangerous Tasks and AI Analyzes Safety Data

Samsung C&T Mobilizes Latest Technologies for On-Site Safety
Robots Deployed Instead of Workers for Hazardous Tasks
Training Conducted Using VR to Experience Accident Scenarios
Leading a New Ecosystem Combining Expertise and Stability

Access floor installation robot developed by Samsung C&T. This robot can move autonomously and install upper panels weighing 10 kg. By performing hazardous tasks, it reduces the risk of safety accidents such as worker falls. (Photo by Samsung C&T)

Samsung C&T is actively adopting the latest technologies such as robots, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) to ensure safety at construction sites. Robots are deployed instead of humans for hazardous tasks, and a system that anticipates and responds to site risks using cutting-edge technologies like AI is rapidly taking root. This reflects Samsung C&T’s determination to establish the highest level of site safety by mobilizing its unique advanced technologies.

Real-time Site Monitoring... Early Detection of Risk Factors

One of Samsung C&T’s representative safety technologies is the IoT technology that monitors hazardous situations on-site in real time. It identifies and analyzes various hidden risk factors among the large-scale workforce, materials, and equipment deployed at construction sites, sharing this information promptly. Intelligent closed-circuit (CC) TVs, smart tags, and drones are utilized for site monitoring.

AI technology is used to analyze safety data collected from various parts of the site in real time. The analyzed information is checked in real time at the site’s integrated control room and relayed to the dedicated safety and health team, enabling immediate response when incidents occur.

Robots Instead of Humans for Hazardous Tasks

In particular, Samsung C&T is leading the development of robots used for tasks with a high risk of safety accidents. For refractory spraying work, classified as a representative high-risk task due to the high possibility of exposure to hazardous substances, robots are deployed instead of humans. Samsung C&T has equipped its self-developed robot with a robotic arm for refractory material spraying and integrated a raw material mixer and storage facility at the base, creating a system where the robot can work safely.

Alongside this, the so-called “Floor Robot,” an access floor installation robot, has recently been commercialized. This robot can move autonomously and install upper panels weighing 10 kg. In some sites, installation is performed at heights of up to 6 meters or more from the floor, and the Floor Robot has significantly reduced the possibility of accidents in such cases.

Robots for automatic welding, drilling, and anchor work have also been developed and applied on-site. In June, the drilling robot became the first in the domestic construction industry to receive the “Collaborative Robot Installation Workplace Safety Certificate” issued by the Korea Robot Users Association. By expanding the development of construction automation technologies using robots, Samsung C&T is creating a new ecosystem that secures both professionalism and safety at construction sites.

Trainees at the Samsung C&T Yongdu 6 redevelopment site are using the equipment safety virtual training program "Smarti," which utilizes virtual reality (VR), to identify risk factors. (Photo by Samsung C&T)

Expansion of Safety Training Using Virtual Reality

Safety training for workers using the equipment safety virtual training program “SMAR’T” is also notable. This program simulates equipment accidents that could occur on actual sites and can configure various accident scenarios such as lifting, cargo handling, high-altitude work, and concrete pouring. It allows users to experience environments similar to actual accident situations, helping workers maintain alertness during operations.

Samsung C&T has also developed and begun applying the equipment risk elimination device “R.E.D (Risk Elimination Device),” which collects and analyzes real-time data on construction equipment operating time and location to remove unnecessary equipment from the site. This technology monitors whether equipment deployed at construction sites is operating and its location, analyzes the collected data to reduce waiting times for work, and provides real-time warnings to equipment operators and safety managers approaching hazardous zones to prevent accidents.

A Samsung C&T official stated, “We plan to expand the application of the equipment risk elimination device to frequently used construction equipment such as table lifts, mobile cranes, and forklifts. We will also integrate it with existing site management systems to build safer and smarter construction sites.”