Digital4OSH Research Group, led by ISLA Gaia and Loughborough University, in partnership with the Construction Safety Specialization of the Order of Engineers, held the
International Seminar “Construction Health, Safety and Well-Being in the Digital Era” on June 16th.
This event brought together specialists, researchers, and professionals in the field to discuss the impact of digital technologies on improving working conditions in the sector.
The meeting, which demonstrates the organizers' internationalization aim, had 50 participants from various countries including the United Kingdom, Italy, Malaysia, USA, Cyprus, Croatia, France, Serbia, Ireland, Germany, Estonia, and Portugal.
During the session, in addition to the presentation of the research outputs developed by Digital4OSH (which includes the publication of a book on the use of Building Information Modelling for risk prevention and the renowned Charles Manby Award 2025 granted by the Institution of Civil Engineers for work carried out on the use of Virtual Reality for training tunnel boring workers in a megaproject in London), topics such as the use of artificial intelligence, smart sensors, wearable devices, BIM modeling, and data analysis for occupational risks prevention were addressed. The need to integrate well-being and mental health into this new construction paradigm was also discussed.
The speakers highlighted the growing importance of digital tools in the early identification of hazards, in real-time monitoring of working conditions, and in creating safer and more efficient environments. The speakers emphasized that the adoption of digital technologies must be accompanied by training and capacity-building strategies, ensuring that professionals are prepared to make the most of the new tools and face the challenges associated with the digitalization of the sector.
The initiative provided a space for sharing knowledge and best practices, promoting debate about the future of construction in an increasingly technological context. The meeting reinforced the importance of placing people at the center of innovation, ensuring that digital advancements effectively contribute to safer, healthier, and more sustainable work environments.
This meeting therefore highlighted the relevance of connection and collaboration between academia, industry, and public entities to drive innovative solutions that respond to the current and future needs of the construction sector.
