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An image of construction workers on site- Safety in the construction industry. Time-Lapse Systems.

News Safety: The Value of Construction Time-Lapse

31 July 2024 Holly Eckersley

Time-lapse cameras are valuable tools for site monitoring on construction projects. They offer continuous, real-time documentation of a site, capturing images at regular intervals. This technology can significantly enhance safety, streamline operations, and provide developers and construction teams with a wealth of data for reflection and improvement.

Time-lapse cameras provide a comprehensive visual record of a construction site’s progress. By documenting the site at various stages, these cameras create an objective historical archive. This continuous monitoring ensures that any deviations from the project plan are quickly identified. For instance, if a structural component is installed incorrectly, the time-lapse footage can reveal the error early, allowing for prompt corrective action. This helps in maintaining quality control and adherence to project timelines. For developers and construction teams, time-lapse footage serves as a powerful tool for reflection and continuous improvement. By analysing the construction process from start to finish, teams can identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement. For example, if the footage shows repeated delays in a specific phase of the construction, the team can investigate the root cause and implement measures to streamline that part of the process in future projects.

Architects and property developers planning a construction project. They ar4e all wearing high-vis jackets and helmets. Time-Lapse: Safety of Construction Sites.

Safety is a primary concern on construction sites, and time-lapse cameras contribute significantly to improving it. Construction sites are dynamic environments with numerous hazards. Time-lapse cameras can capture unsafe practices or conditions that might not be immediately apparent to on-site personnel. By reviewing the footage, safety officers can identify patterns and pinpoint recurring safety issues, such as improper use of protective equipment or risky behaviour in certain areas. This data-driven approach enables the implementation of targeted training programs and safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Moreover, in the event of an accident, time-lapse footage can be crucial for investigation purposes. It provides an unbiased account of the events leading up to the incident, helping to determine its cause. This information is invaluable for preventing similar accidents in the future and for resolving any legal or insurance-related matters that may arise.

Time-lapse cameras also facilitate remote monitoring of construction sites. Project managers and stakeholders can access live or recorded footage from anywhere, enhancing oversight without the need for constant physical presence. This capability is particularly beneficial for large-scale projects or those spread across multiple locations. Remote monitoring allows for real-time decision-making and quick response to emerging issues, ensuring that the project stays on track and within budget.

An excavator on a building site. Construction site safety: the benefit of time-lapse.

Additionally, time-lapse cameras can capture the use of materials and equipment, providing insights into resource management. By reviewing how materials are stored, handled, and utilised, teams can optimise these processes to reduce waste and lower costs. This level of scrutiny helps in developing more efficient practices and promoting sustainable construction methods.

Furthermore, time-lapse footage can be used for training purposes. New employees can learn from past projects by observing how experienced workers handle various tasks and challenges. This visual learning tool can be more effective than traditional training methods, as it provides a real-world context and practical examples.

From a communication perspective, time-lapse footage is a valuable asset for stakeholder engagement. Developers can use the footage to keep clients, investors, and other stakeholders informed about the project’s progress. This transparency builds trust and keeps all parties aligned with the project’s goals. Additionally, the footage can be used in marketing and promotional materials, showcasing the project’s development in a visually compelling manner.

Time-lapse cameras are a powerful asset for site monitoring in construction. They enhance safety by identifying hazards and unsafe practices, provide valuable data for process improvement, and facilitate remote monitoring and decision-making. For developers and construction teams, time-lapse footage is a tool for reflection, training, and communication, ultimately contributing to more efficient, safe, and successful construction projects.

At Time-Lapse Systems we are the UK’s premium provider of time-lapse services and we cover the entire breadth of the UK. We work with a range of clients from a variety of sectors on projects for different durations. Safety and the professionalism of our team are of paramount importance to us. Our engineers have extensive accreditations such as:

  • SSSTS – Site Supervision Safety Training Scheme 
  • CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) – Green Labourer Card
  • IPAF – International Powered Access Federation – 3a, 3b (scissor lift & cherry picker) & harness training
  • PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ & Manufacturers’ Association) – aluminium scaffold tower training
  • Leading Edge – Working at Height Operative 1
  • Leading Edge – Drop Prevention Training
  • Emergency First Aid Training at Work
  • Employers Guide to Risk assessment
  • Asbestos Awareness
  • Manual Handling
  • Noise and Vibration Awareness
  • Fire Safety and Risk Assessment

The team’s drone specific training includes:

  • GVC – General VLOS Certificate
  • A2 Certificate of Competency

Our company has wider accreditations which include:

 

  • Constructionline Gold
  • SMAS
  • CHAS
  • Safe Contractor
  • Eco Vadis

This training of our team ensures that we always adhere to the highest codes of practise. We work hard to access each project and to plan extensively before we install. We often visit a site before work commences and we always write detailed method and risk assessments to ensure that we have considered all challenges that may present themselves. We are always looking for ways to improve and to help our team in their career development and personal goals within our company, which helps us to maintain such high standards.

If you would like to hear more about the services we offer please get in touch.

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0333 016 5253 [email protected]

Time-Lapse Systems are a part of Hideaway Media Ltd (est. 2007). World leader in the provision of bespoke time-lapse capture and site monitoring solutions. UK and Worldwide.