A groundbreaking automated job hazard analysis tool developed by Australian researchers promises to transform safety protocols in high-risk industries like roofing, where fatal injury rates remain significantly above the national average.

Researchers at the University of South Australia have unveiled a "knowledge graph" system designed to predict construction site hazards, traditionally identified through a labor-intensive manual process. The findings are published in the Journal of Engineering, Project, and Production Management.

Introducing the JHA Knowledge Graph

The innovative system, called the Job Hazard Analysis Knowledge Graph, or JHAKG, aims to revolutionize roofing contractors and other construction professionals' management of workplace risks. Dr. Sonali Pandithawatta, a lecturer in Construction Management at UniSA, underscored the urgency of developing advanced safety measures, noting that construction sites account for nearly 20% of global occupational deaths.

“Traditionally, hazard identification relies heavily on safety personnel—a process often prone to inefficiencies and human error,” Pandithawatta explained. “Our research addresses the critical need for automating job hazard analysis.”

The study highlights the limitations of manual hazard identification and fragmented safety protocols, illustrating how the JHAKG system automates risk assessment to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Enhancing Safety for Roofers

Roofers, in particular, face elevated risks, with falls, slips, and trips identified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration as leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. The JHAKG system addresses these challenges by integrating job steps, associated elements, and external conditions — weather and site proximity — into its analysis.

For instance, the system can pinpoint specific hazards like high winds or wet surfaces, allowing contractors to implement targeted safety measures. Historical data and expert insights are leveraged to preemptively flag potential dangers, such as unstable ladders or unprotected edges, significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Building the Knowledge Graph

To develop the JHAKG, researchers analyzed over 100 job hazard analysis (JHA) documents and consulted 18 industry experts. The data — encompassing weather conditions, job steps, hazards, and preventive measures — was meticulously integrated into a comprehensive graph.

According to UniSA Construction and Project Management Professor Rameez Rameezdeen, a co-author of the study, the system demonstrated exceptional accuracy—exceeding 90% in identifying primary and secondary hazards in real time. The model also accounted for atmospheric and workplace proximity risks, providing a robust framework for hazard prediction.

Tangible Benefits for Contractors

A case study in the research revealed significant outcomes for companies adopting the JHAKG system. Over 12 months, participating firms saw a 30% reduction in recorded incidents and a 20% decrease in workers' compensation costs. These results underscore the financial and operational benefits of integrating automated safety tools.

Workplace injuries impose staggering costs on roofing contractors, ranging from medical expenses and workers’ compensation to project delays and lost productivity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of a workplace injury is approximately $42,000, with falls often exceeding this figure.

By reducing injury frequency and severity, contractors can lower insurance premiums, minimize claims, and avoid costly project interruptions. The system’s proactive approach to hazard mitigation also enhances operational efficiency, allowing projects to stay on schedule and within budget.

Boosting Worker Morale and Retention

Safety is more than a regulatory obligation; it’s a cornerstone of employee satisfaction and loyalty. Protected workers are more engaged and less likely to leave their jobs. This is particularly critical in the roofing industry, where high turnover rates are often linked to unsafe working conditions.

“Integrating comprehensive hazard data into daily operations empowers both workers and safety personnel, fostering a more cohesive and confident workforce,” the study notes.

The Road Ahead

While the JHAKG system represents a significant advancement, its adoption within the construction industry remains in its early stages. The researchers remain optimistic, emphasizing that proof of concept is a critical step toward broader implementation. As safety performance becomes an increasingly influential factor in client decisions, tools like the JHAKG could redefine industry standards.

In a competitive market, prioritizing safety isn’t just ethical — it’s smart business. With the JHAKG system, roofing contractors and other high-risk industries have an opportunity to protect their workforce, enhance efficiency, and improve their bottom line.