Underground Construction Worker Tracking in Singapore

Affirmo’s LoRa tracking solution combines lightweight trackers, LoRa connectivity, BLE indoor positioning and monitoring software to track people, equipment and vehicles. In underground areas, BLE beacons support positioning, while geofencing and automated alerts help monitor restricted zones, even where cellular coverage is limited.

1. Track Workers Underground Without GPS or Cellular Connectivity

One of the key capabilities of Affirmo’s solution is its ability to support worker tracking in underground tunnels without need for GPS nor cellular (4G/5G) connectivity for the underground positioning use case.

BLE beacons or anchors are installed at selected locations underground to help identify a tracker’s proximity to known points. Depending on the configuration, the monitoring application can display an approximate map position or the nearest BLE beacon, providing location visibility where GPS is unavailable.

LoRa provides wireless network connectivity, while BLE supports indoor positioning. The final setup depends on the selected trackers, beacon infrastructure and site requirements.

Safety benefit: Supervisors can gain better visibility of tracked personnel in underground work areas instead of relying solely on manual checks or communication.

2. Use Geofencing to Monitor and Restrict Unauthorised Access

Geofencing allows construction teams to define virtual boundaries around specific work areas, restricted zones and hazardous locations.

For example, a project may establish geofences around:

• Restricted tunnel sections or underground facilities.
• Hazardous work zones where access is limited.
• Designated areas where contractors are authorised to work.
• Locations that workers must avoid during particular activities.

When a tracked worker enters or leaves a configured geofence in a way that violates the access rules, the system can generate an alert. The tracking application can record the violation for review.

These alerts help supervisors identify unauthorised movement and take appropriate action according to site safety procedures. Geofencing supports access monitoring and enforcement workflows; it does not physically prevent entry by itself.

Safety benefit: Construction teams can identify potential access violations earlier and take preventive action before an unsafe situation escalates.

3. Receive Automated Alerts for Faster Response

Continuous manual monitoring can be difficult when numerous workers operate across different areas and shifts. Affirmo’s people tracking application supports automated alerts for configured events.

The PowerPoint also describes alerts for tracker removal and tracker shutdown, alongside geofence violation notifications.

Depending on the selected configuration, relevant monitoring functions include:

• Geofence violation alerts when configured access rules are breached.
• Notifications when a tracker is removed from the wearer.
• Alerts when a tracker is shut down or its battery is low.
• Visual and audible alerts through supported monitoring interfaces.

These alerts help safety personnel identify events requiring attention without relying entirely on workers to report every issue manually.

Safety benefit: Earlier notification can support faster assessment and response, helping safety teams manage risks more proactively.

4. Review Historical Movement to Support Incident Investigations

Understanding worker movement before or during a safety incident can support construction site investigations.

Affirmo’s people tracking application records historical tracker trails, allowing authorised users to review worker movements and geofence violations. This information can support incident investigations and safety assessments when considered alongside site records and other evidence. Historical tracking alone does not establish the cause of an incident.

Safety benefit: Recorded movement information can provide additional context for incident reviews and help organisations identify opportunities to strengthen site procedures.

5. Monitor Multiple Workers Across Large Sites

Construction projects often involve multiple workers, contractors and work zones. Affirmo’s people tracking solution supports multiple trackers with live monitoring, geofence management, alerts and tracker administration.

Supervisors can assign geofences to individual or groups of trackers and manage tracking information across departments, helping organise worker monitoring according to project zones, teams and access requirements.

Operational benefit: A centralised tracking application can help supervisors coordinate monitoring activities across large or complex construction environments.