Daewoo E&C integrates AI for construction safety, efficiency
The Korean builder is deploying real-time translation, automated safety monitoring, and digital management systems to cut workplace risks and streamline operations.
AI Enhances Site Safety and Communication
Daewoo Engineering & Construction is expanding artificial intelligence (AI) use across its construction sites. From September, the company standardised AI translation and tablet-based safety training at its domestic sites.
The AI translation system converts supervisors' spoken Korean instructions into text and audio in 16 languages, showing a 94.6 per cent accuracy rate for Korean speech recognition during preliminary tests. The accompanying tablet platform handles worker registration, health checks, and safety training.
Additionally, in June, Daewoo E&C introduced a smart monitoring system at its G-TOWN development in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi Province, using AI-powered cameras to detect hazards like missing safety equipment or fires.
Digital Tools Streamline Quality and Contracts
Beyond safety, Daewoo E&C is digitalising construction quality inspections through its Q-Box platform. Developed in 2024 under a government-backed smart construction project, Q-Box allows workers to record and manage inspection results on mobile devices.
Field trials last year demonstrated that the platform cut documentation time by over 90 per cent, automatically submitting quality test results to the national Construction Safety Information System.
For overseas projects, the builder developed Barodap AI, a large language model tool that assists with contract reviews by analysing bidding documents, extracting payment terms, and identifying procedures for claims related to project delays.
Open Innovation Drives Future Digitalisation
Daewoo E&C is also seeking external technologies through its 2026 Hyper Safety & AI Open Innovation programme, organised with the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology. The programme received 164 submissions covering construction safety, quality management, AI, robotics, and automation.
Nine technologies reached the final evaluation stage, with developers expected to conduct trials at active construction sites. An official stated that the purpose of introducing AI and smart technologies is to protect workers and improve operational efficiency, with the company planning to continue expanding digital tools and collaborating with startups.
This strategic push by Daewoo E&C highlights a growing trend among major Asian construction firms to adopt advanced digital tools. Such investments can lead to significant operational cost savings through reduced accidents and streamlined administrative processes, potentially enhancing project profitability.
Other regional builders may observe these deployments for best practices in managing large-scale projects, especially those with diverse international workforces. This could drive wider adoption of AI in construction safety and project management across Asia, fostering greater efficiency and risk mitigation in the sector.
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