Current Practices, Conflicts, and Future Teleoperation in Construction Workplaces: A Survey Study

Abstract

Excavation work poses significant risks to workers due to the potential for striking underground utilities such as gas lines and electrical cables. Despite the availability of various tools and protocols, excavation accidents still occur frequently, leading to injuries, fatalities, and property damage. This study explores the perceptions of excavator operators regarding excavation conditions and safety protocols, as well as the adaptability of a proposed tool that indicates the location and depth of underground utilities. The study is based on surveys completed by excavator operators, which revealed critical factors contributing to the causes of utility strikes, their experiences at work, and desirable features for future tools. The proposed tool was well-received by operators, with many expressing a willingness to adopt it to enhance safety and efficiency. This research provides insights into the challenges of excavation work and highlights the potential of advanced tools to mitigate utility strikes.