A Cross-Sector Framework for Human Factor Technologies: Comparative Analysis of Vertical and Horizontal Construction

Abstract

Human factors research in construction has led to a range of technological and methodological advancements aimed at enhancing worker safety, efficiency, and well-being. However, these innovations often evolve separately within vertical building construction and horizontal transportation construction. This paper presents a comparative analysis of the two sectors to examine not only which human factors technologies can be effectively transferred between them, but also which cannot, and more importantly why. To support this, a structured decision-making framework (network diagram) is introduced to systematically categorize technologies into three transferability pathways: directly transferable, adaptable, or non-transferable. The analysis considers variations in work intensity, activity duration, and task frequency, as well as environmental and site conditions that shape human performance demands. Technologies originating in vertical building construction, such as wearable sensing systems and ergonomic assessment tools, are evaluated for their applicability in horizontal transportation construction, while transportation-based technologies such as fatigue monitoring and real-time safety analytics are assessed for potential use in vertical construction. Findings reveal both opportunities for cross-sector technology transfer and more importantly barriers rooted in differences in exposure duration, work environments, and operational logistics. The study contributes to developing a framework for adapting, refining, and contextualizing human factors technologies across diverse construction domains to advance human-centered design and safety performance.

Keywords: Human factors, Construction safety, Cross-sector Technology Transfer

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1006994