Safety, Skills and Workforce Month
The year begins with one of the industry’s most vital priorities: protecting people and strengthening the workforce.
This theme explores the latest developments in site safety, connected PPE, traffic management, and wellbeing, alongside the training and upskilling initiatives shaping tomorrow’s construction professionals.
With labour shortages, evolving regulations, and rapid technological change, January will highlight how companies can build safer environments, nurture skilled talent, and prepare their teams for the challenges ahead.
Through expert insights, case studies, and practical guidance, the focus will be on creating a resilient, future-ready workforce at the heart of modern infrastructure.
Technology and Innovation in Safety
The field of construction technology is rapidly evolving, and new innovations are constantly emerging, so keep up-to-date with latest tech news on Highways.Today.
Here are the top three construction safety technologies we will be covering extensively in 2024:
Wearable Technology
Wearable tech, like smart helmets, vests, and wristbands, has become increasingly popular in construction safety.
These devices can monitor vital signs, detect falls, and alert workers to potential hazards. Some wearables also incorporate GPS tracking to monitor the location of workers, especially useful in large or complex job sites.
An example includes the DAQRI Smart Helmet, which provides real-time data overlay in the user’s field of vision.
Drones for Site Inspection and Surveillance
Drones are used extensively for site inspections, offering a safe way to survey hazardous or hard-to-reach areas.
They provide aerial views, which are essential for large-scale projects, and can be equipped with cameras and sensors to collect data or monitor site conditions.
Drones reduce the need for workers to physically access unsafe or unstable areas, thereby significantly reducing risk.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) for Training and Simulation
VR and AR are powerful tools for safety training in construction. They allow workers to experience and interact with realistic job site scenarios in a controlled, virtual environment.
This kind of training is particularly effective for hazard recognition and emergency response drills.
Technologies like Microsoft’s AR and VR headsets are used for training, and even for overlaying construction plans over the physical job site. We will be testing VR headsets very soon at Highways.Today.
Technologies such as these will be instrumental in improving safety standards, reducing accidents, and enhancing overall efficiency in construction projects.
Highways.Today is committed to bringing you the latest technology for the construction industry and especially reporting on its impact on safety.
Safety in Construction Top Ten Resources
Here are ten of the best information resources available that offer a wealth of information ranging from safety guidelines and best practices to the latest research and technology trends in construction safety:
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA provides comprehensive guidelines, resources, and training materials on construction safety. Their website is an essential resource for understanding legal safety standards and best practices in the U.S.
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) : NIOSH offers extensive research, data, and training resources focusing on preventing workplace illnesses and injuries, including those in construction.
- American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP): ASSP provides professional development resources, educational materials, and networking opportunities for safety professionals. They have specific sections and publications dedicated to construction safety.
- Construction Safety Council: A non-profit organization offering training and resources specifically focused on construction safety. Their offerings include certification programs and customized training.
- The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR): CPWR conducts research and provides training and practical resources for construction safety and health.
- British Safety Council: While UK-based, their resources, research papers, and training materials are useful for a global audience interested in construction safety.
- Construction Industry Institute (CII): CII offers research and publications on various aspects of construction management, including safety. Their research is data-driven and collaborative.
- Safety and Health Magazine: This magazine provides updates on the latest news, trends, and best practices in workplace safety, including a focus on the construction sector.
- Building Safety Journal: Offers articles and news related to building safety, including construction safety topics.
- International Labour Organization (ILO): The ILO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that sets international labor standards, including those for safety and health in construction. Their website offers a wealth of information on construction safety standards, guidelines, and best practices from a global perspective. They also provide extensive research and reports on safety and health trends in the construction industry worldwide.
These resources cover a broad spectrum of construction safety topics, providing valuable insights for industry professionals, researchers, and anyone interested in construction safety.
Construction Safety Events
Here’s a list of some of the top construction safety events around the world, known for their focus on promoting safety practices, showcasing new technologies, and facilitating industry networking:
- World Congress on Safety and Health at Work: This global forum, organized by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Social Security Association (ISSA), brings together experts, decision-makers, and practitioners from around the world to share strategies and solutions for improving safety and health at work, including in the construction industry.
- The National Safety Council (NSC) Congress & Expo: Hosted in the United States, this event is one of the largest annual safety conferences, featuring workshops, educational sessions, and an expo with the latest in safety products and solutions, including construction safety.
- Safety and Health Expo: Held in the UK, this event is Europe’s leading health and safety show, featuring a wide range of exhibitors and comprehensive seminar programs that address various aspects of workplace safety, including construction.
- The Construction Safety Conference: This conference, often held in different locations, focuses specifically on safety in the construction industry, offering seminars, training sessions, and showcases of safety equipment and technologies.
- American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Safety Conference: An annual event that provides education and networking opportunities for safety professionals. The conference includes sessions specifically dedicated to construction safety.
- International Conference on Construction Safety and Health (ICCSH): This conference focuses on the latest scientific and technical advancements in construction safety and health, attracting academics, researchers, and practitioners.
- CPWR Construction Safety and Health Conference: Organized by the Center for Construction Research and Training, this conference focuses on research findings and practical applications in construction safety and health.
- Australian Workplace Health & Safety Show: An important event in the Asia-Pacific region, featuring the latest in safety gear and technology, with a significant focus on the construction industry.
- BuildSafe Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Leadership Conference: This conference focuses on sharing best practices, new technologies, and strategies to enhance safety performance in the construction industry.
- Construction Safety Week: An annual event that focuses on reinforcing a safety culture in the construction industry. It involves various activities and awareness campaigns at construction sites and company offices.
These events play a crucial role in advancing safety practices in the construction industry, promoting a culture of safety, and introducing innovative technologies and methodologies. They offer excellent opportunities for professionals to learn, network, and stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in construction safety.
Construction Safety Training, Education and Certification
Here is a list of globally recognized construction safety training programs and certifications:
- NEBOSH National Certificate in Construction Health and Safety: A globally recognized qualification from the UK, offering comprehensive understanding of construction-related health and safety issues.
- OSHA 10-Hour and 30-Hour Construction Safety Courses (USA): These courses provide foundational and advanced training on construction safety and health hazards, tailored to U.S. standards.
- IOSH Managing Safely in Construction (UK): The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) offers this course focusing on the essentials of managing and maintaining safety in a construction environment.
- CCHEST Occupational Health and Safety Technologist (OHST) Certification (Global): This certification focuses on safety, health, and environmental technology, including construction safety.
- Canadian Construction Association (CCA) Gold Seal Certification (Canada): A certification program focusing on safety and project management in construction, recognized across Canada.
- National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (Global): While not construction-specific, this certification is highly respected worldwide and covers essential aspects of occupational safety and health, relevant to construction.
- Australian Institute of Health & Safety (AIHS) Training Programs (Australia): AIHS offers various courses and workshops on occupational health and safety, applicable to the construction sector.
- Singapore Institution of Safety Officers (SISO) Work-at-Height Course for Supervisors (Singapore): This course is specific to work-at-height safety, a critical aspect of construction safety in Singapore.
- Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) (UK): CSCS provides cards that certify the training and qualifications of individuals working on construction sites in the UK.
- CITB Site Safety Plus (UK and International): The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) offers the Site Safety Plus suite of courses, which are highly regarded in the UK and have gained international recognition. These courses cover a range of levels, from a one-day Health and Safety Awareness course to the five-day Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS). They are designed to provide construction site workers, supervisors, site managers, and directors with the knowledge needed to ensure health and safety on construction sites.
These programs and certifications offer comprehensive training in construction safety, addressing different regional standards and regulations. They cater to a wide range of professionals within the construction industry, from workers and supervisors to safety managers.
Construction Education
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Construction Education Trends
The construction industry stands on the brink of a transformative era, driven by rapid technological advancements and a growing commitment to sustainability.
In this dynamic landscape, certain trends in advanced construction materials are emerging as game-changers, poised to redefine the way we build and interact with our built environment. From eco-conscious choices to technological marvels, these trends not only reflect our evolving needs but also our aspirations for a more efficient, sustainable, and innovative future in construction.
Let’s explore the top three trends that are set to make a significant impact.
Digital and Smart Technologies
The construction industry is increasingly leveraging digital tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) to enhance the design, construction, and management of buildings.
This trend in education focuses on equipping students with the skills to use these technologies effectively, fostering a generation of professionals who can improve efficiency and reduce costs through digital solutions.
VR/AR for Training
Virtual and Augmented Reality technologies are revolutionizing construction education by providing immersive, hands-on training experiences without the physical constraints of traditional classrooms.
These tools allow students to explore complex building systems, safety protocols, and construction techniques in a controlled, interactive environment, enhancing their understanding and retention of critical concepts.
Sustainability and Green Building Practices
With a growing emphasis on sustainability, construction education is adapting to include green building practices and principles.
Educating the next generation of construction professionals on sustainable design, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly materials ensures that the industry can meet the demands of climate change and environmental stewardship.
Apprenticeships and Practical Experience
The value of apprenticeships and on-the-job training is gaining recognition as an essential component of construction education.
These experiences offer students practical insights and real-world skills, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application in the field, and preparing them for successful careers in the construction industry.
Online and Remote Learning Platforms
The expansion of online and remote learning platforms has democratized access to construction education, allowing a broader audience to gain valuable knowledge and skills.
These platforms offer flexible learning options that can accommodate different schedules and learning paces, making construction education more accessible to aspiring professionals worldwide.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, future trends in education may include greater emphasis on cross-disciplinary studies, integrating construction with fields like environmental science and technology.
The rise of smart cities could lead to courses focused on constructing technologically advanced, sustainable urban environments. Additionally, the increasing importance of resilience in construction against climate change and natural disasters might shape curricula.
These potential trends suggest a dynamic future for construction education, preparing professionals to tackle the complex challenges of tomorrow’s built environment.
Construction Education Top Ten Resources
In today’s global construction industry, staying ahead requires constant learning and upskilling. Here’s a list of the top ten global construction education resources designed to cater to professionals across the globe, offering a range of learning opportunities from technical skills to management and sustainability practices:
- WorldSkills International: Promotes skills excellence and development in the trades, including construction, through competitions and educational programs worldwide.
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): A global professional body that accredits professionals within the land, property, construction, and infrastructure sectors, offering training and qualifications.
- Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB): An international body for construction management and leadership, offering accreditation, education programs, and professional development opportunities.
- Autodesk University: An international conference and online learning community that offers courses and seminars on Autodesk software, widely used in the construction industry for design and modeling.
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification: Offered by the U.S. Green Building Council but recognized globally, LEED certification courses educate on sustainable building practices
- International Labour Organization (ILO) Training Centre: Offers courses on construction safety and health, project management, and green building practices with a focus on developing countries.
- The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE): Based in the UK but with a global membership, ICE offers learning and qualification opportunities for civil engineers and construction professionals worldwide.
- Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Academy: Based in Singapore, BCA Academy offers a wide range of programs and courses focusing on the built environment, aiming to provide the Asian construction industry with skilled professionals in areas such as green building, construction IT, and project management.
- Engineers Without Borders (EWB): An international organization that supports community-driven development programs worldwide through engineering projects, including construction. EWB also offers educational resources and opportunities for engineers and construction professionals to apply their skills in challenging environments, promoting sustainable development.
- Highways.Today: Our own online course platform collaborate with universities worldwide to provide courses in construction management, engineering, sustainability, and other related fields.
Whether you’re just starting out in the construction industry or looking to advance your career, these global resources offer valuable knowledge and skills to help you succeed. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow with these leading educational platforms and institutions, and pave your way to becoming a more proficient and knowledgeable construction professional.
Construction Education and Careers Events
For construction professionals eager to advance their education and careers, participating in specialized events can offer invaluable insights and opportunities.
Below are the top ten global events centred on construction education and career development, perfect for those looking to expand their knowledge and connections in the industry.
- Associated Schools of Construction (ASC) Annual Conference (USA): This conference focuses on construction education, bringing together faculty, students, and industry professionals to discuss educational strategies, research, and collaboration opportunities.
- RICS World Built Environment Forum Summit (Global): Hosted by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, this summit addresses the latest trends in the built environment, offering insights into career development and the future of construction professions.
- Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) National Conference & Trade Show (USA): CMAA’s event is dedicated to the practice of construction management and provides educational workshops, certification opportunities, and networking events for professionals.
- Women in Construction Conference (Global): This event celebrates and empowers women in the construction industry, offering educational sessions, networking, and discussions on career development in a traditionally male-dominated field.
- International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) Conferences (Global): CIB organizes conferences that focus on innovation in building and construction, including the role of education in advancing the industry.
- Lean Construction Institute (LCI) Lean in Design Forum (USA): Specifically focused on Lean construction principles, this forum offers educational sessions and workshops aimed at improving project outcomes through Lean methodologies.
- ENR FutureTech (USA): Engineering News-Record’s conference focuses on technology for the construction industry, offering sessions on innovative tools and practices that impact education and career development.
- Autodesk University Construction Sessions (Global): While Autodesk University covers a broad range of topics, its construction sessions specifically focus on the use of Autodesk software in construction education and professional development.
- BIM World (Global, with a notable event in France): Concentrating on Building Information Modeling, BIM World is an important event for construction professionals looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in BIM for career advancement.
Attending these events can significantly enhance your understanding of construction education and career pathways, offering access to the latest industry trends, educational advancements, and networking opportunities.
Whether you are just starting your career or looking to further your professional development, these global events provide a platform to grow, learn, and connect with like-minded professionals and industry leaders.
Construction Industry Training, Education and Certification
In the dynamic world of construction, continuous learning and certification are key to staying ahead. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your skills, gain new insights, or achieve professional recognition, engaging with reputable training, education, and certification bodies is crucial.
Here’s a list of the top ten global organizations committed to advancing construction industry standards through comprehensive training, education, and certification programs.
- National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) (USA): A not-for-profit foundation created to develop standardized construction and maintenance curricula with portable credentials, promoting a safe and productive workforce.
- Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) (UK): An international body offering professional accreditation for construction managers, focusing on leadership and management in the built environment.
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) (Global): A professional body that accredits professionals within the land, property, construction, and infrastructure sectors worldwide, ensuring professional standards and providing educational resources.
- Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) (USA): Specializes in improving construction management practices through educational programs, certification, and advocacy efforts.
- American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) (USA): Accrediting agency dedicated to promoting quality construction education programs and ensuring that academic standards are met.
- Lean Construction Institute (LCI) (USA): Focuses on transforming the construction industry through Lean approaches to project design and delivery, offering training and certification in Lean Construction.
- Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Academy (Singapore): Provides education and training for the building and construction sector, promoting best practices and supporting the industry’s development and regulatory needs.
- Australian Institute of Building (AIB) (Australia): Offers members professional recognition and development opportunities in the building and construction industry through certification and education.
- Canadian Construction Association (CCA) (Canada): Promotes the national interests of the construction industry, offering educational resources, certification, and advocacy.
- Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) (UK): Aims to improve construction site workers’ competence and reduce accidents through a card certification system that proves the holders’ training and qualifications.
Engaging with these esteemed organizations can significantly boost your professional trajectory in the construction industry. By participating in their training, education, and certification programs, you’ll not only enhance your skill set but also align yourself with the best practices and standards recognized globally.
Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or pivot to a new area within the industry, these bodies provide the resources and recognition to support your career development.
