Token incentive framework for virtual-reality-based construction safety training

Virtual reality (VR) and blockchain are two emerging technologies with significant potential for the construction industry. Numerous studies have investigated the use of VR to improve construction safety training. However, there is a lack of research focused on encouraging employees to participate in VR training. Fortunately, incentive mechanisms are a powerful motivator, capable of driving employees to actively participate in and excel at safety practices. Incorporating blockchain-based incentives into safety training creates a win-win scenario which can substantially improve training outcomes. To this end, this paper proposes a token incentive mechanism based on blockchain technology for VR-based safety training, consisting of unique safety training scenarios and a flexible virtual environment that enables users to acquire knowledge of construction safety regulations. The framework supports real-time interaction and communication among users and provides blockchain-based tokens to incentivize safe conduct and reward individuals who have undergone safety training. A prototype was developed and evaluated through interactive system trials with senior students, site managers, and construction site employees. Results demonstrate that the proposed framework can motivate users to participate in safety training regularly and improve their safety awareness and knowledge before performing tasks at construction sites. In addition, the framework fosters collaboration among employees and assists safety managers in creating novel VR-based safety training scenarios that can be delivered to workers easily. By incentivizing safety training, the proposed framework contributes to establishing a new safety culture wherein workers can effectively acquire knowledge and financial benefits through completing safety training activities.