A digital twin is a virtual replica of an object or infrastructure. It is often used as a testing environment for new products or to find out the results of real-life situations. Entrepreneurs can demonstrate new solutions without risking irreversible consequences in real life. According to data released by the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA), 125 people died at roof construction sites between 2020 and 2022. The accidents mainly happened at factories, warehouses, and livestock barns.
KOSHA said on December 24 that it created a digital map of 405 livestock houses in Hapcheon about 350 kilometers south of Seoul. After taking aerial photos using drones, the agency worked with experts to set up a risk assessment standard that contains various information including roof materials and the degree of damage and outdatedness.
Starting in 2024, KOSHA will produce digital maps for factories and industrial complexes. The agency plans to develop an artificial intelligence-based system that can identify roof material types and risk factors.
Seoul has also tested many smart safety management solutions at construction sites. In 2021, the capital city provided safety education classes using virtual reality (VR) devices to raise awareness of 33 types of accident cases. By wearing VR headsets, construction workers could experience different types of safety education through simulated situations.