Robotic Technologies for Hazardous Construction Tasks: Implications for Occupational Health and Safety

This study examines the potential roles of robotic technologies in executing hazardous construction tasks and advancing occupational health and safety (OHS). Drawing on a comprehensive analysis of accident trends, risk profiles, and limitations of conventional safety management using structured literature review methodology, the study synthesizes current applications of robotics in work at height, demolition, excavation, confined spaces, and emergency response. It evaluates the integration of robotics with digital construction systems (BIM, IoT, and AI) and analyses levels of automation and human–robot interaction. The findings highlight significant potential for risk reduction, ergonomic improvement, and accident prevention, while also identifying emergent safety, psychological, and regulatory challenges associated with collaborative robotics. By examining drivers, barriers, and global adoption patterns, the study advances a socio-technical perspective on safe automation and proposes policy, industry, and research pathways to support responsible and sustainable deployment of robotics in hazardous construction environments