Sharing knowledge via ubiquitous technology to enhance safety awareness: Willingness and actual experience in Hong Kong

Abstract

Recently, various ubiquitous technological advancements have benefitted knowledge sharing in different sectors. As there is a close relationship between safety knowledge and awareness, this paper examines the use of Web 2.0, Internet of Things (IoT) and mobile applications in construction safety knowledge sharing for enhancing safety awareness at work. The use of such technologies can improve internal and external communication as well as collaboration. A quantitative survey was conducted to investigate the willingness and uptake of advanced technologies in the Hong Kong construction industry. Out of 23 respondents, 16 were eager to use mobile applications to share safety information. Regarding safety knowledge sharing via Web 2.0, respondents perceived a variety of barriers for not using it, such as the need to protect their company’s privacy issues made them hesitant to share knowledge regarding safety issues; others were of the opinion that Web 2.0 was managed by the elite in the organisation. Only three respondents have used Web 2.0 platforms. The willingness to apply IoT was relatively negative due to the perceived extra operation costs.