Analysis of safety risk factors of modular construction to identify accident trends

Although the modular construction method is safer than traditional onsite construction methods, accidents still occur; therefore, modular projects have characteristic safety risks. This study investigated accident cases related to modular construction and identified the safety risk factors. The study evaluated accident cases related to modular construction that occurred in the United States from 2000 to 2018 and analyzed safety risk factors, such as the types and causes of accidents in these cases. In the process of analysis, the causal map was developed and it was used to identify the causes of accidents. The results of the analyses showed the major accident causes and types that occurred in these activities. Second, this study conducted a comparative analysis to identify differences between accidents in modular and general constructions. Furthermore, suggestions are proposed to prevent safety accidents and to develop management schemes based on the analyzed outcomes. This study contributes to the body of knowledge as a basic modular construction safety management study; it presents safety risk factors by identifying safety accidents in modular construction projects and helps safety managers frame appropriate measures when making decisions.