Enhancing Sustainability and Construction Safety Research in the Era of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

Abstract. Construction remains one of the most hazardous global industries, with worker fatalities occurring approximately every 99 min. However, safety is intrinsically linked to broader project performance; a truly safe construction site is hazard free, organized, and efficient, thereby minimizing waste and resource depletion. In response, a growing body of research has explored the use of advanced technologies, such as machine learning, robotics, wearable, and immersive visualization, to synergize safety improvements with sustainable building practices. In this article, we systematically review 165 peer-reviewed articles in the era of artificial intelligence (AI) that capture how technologies have evolved to address the dual imperatives of safety and sustainability in response to technology-driven transformation. To analyze this inflection, the article develops a four-domain taxonomy spanning AI, visualization, surveillance, navigation and collaboration, and wearable technology each mapped against both earlier and recent research studies. Crucially, we highlight emerging dual-utility applications, such as the use of “green digital twins” for real-time lighting optimization and UAVs for building envelope energy auditing. By mapping this transition, this article provides a grounded perspective on current capabilities, identifies research practice gaps, and supports informed decision-making for the implementation of future-integrated safety and sustainability technologies. The insights derived are aimed at supporting researchers, technology developers, and industry professionals to guide future integration of advanced, sustainable construction safety practices. Our review identifies recurring themes in the recent studies, including the integration of real-time sensing, multimodal data fusion, and user-centered system design. It also highlights unresolved challenges related to cross-project generalizability and long-term field adoption. By offering this structured analysis, the review aims to contribute a domain-wise benchmark of progress, capturing the recent technological inflection in construction safety and sustainability, and outlining future opportunities to support researchers, technology developers, and industry professionals.