Digital Solutions for Bridging Language Barriers: A Review of Apps for Construction Spanish Safety Communication on Construction Jobsites

10 pages•Published: July 23, 2025

Adrian Cappella, Shima Clarke and Jason Lucas

Abstract

Language barriers in the construction industry, particularly among Spanish-speaking workers, present significant challenges to safety communication, leading to increased risks of accidents and injuries. As the construction workforce becomes more diverse, the need for effective and clear communication of safety protocols in multiple languages has become critical. This study reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of various digital tools designed to improve safety communication for Spanish-speaking workers on construction sites. Tools such as Need2Say, JHA Safety App, and Toolbox Talks Safety App provide real-time translations, bilingual safety briefings, and customizable hazard analysis, which help reduce the risks associated with miscommunication. This research also explored the limitations of general-purpose tools like Google Translate, which lack industry-specific terminology. Through a comprehensive analysis, this study highlights the strengths and weaknesses of these digital tools and suggests future improvements, including the integration of augmented reality training and data analytics to enhance safety outcomes. This study provides a framework for assessing the current and potential role of digital tools in creating safer, more inclusive construction environments.

Keyphrases: construction safety, digital tools, language barriers, safety communication, spanish speaking workers

In: Wesley Collins, Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference, vol 6, pages 786-795.

Links:	https://easychair.org/publications/paper/pkD3
	https://doi.org/10.29007/tsc2

BibTeX entry

@inproceedings{ASC2025:Digital_Solutions_Bridging_Language,
  author    = {Adrian Cappella and Shima Clarke and Jason Lucas},
  title     = {Digital Solutions for Bridging Language Barriers: A Review of Apps for Construction Spanish Safety Communication on Construction Jobsites},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 61st Annual International Conference},
  editor    = {Wesley Collins and Anthony J. Perrenoud and John Posillico},
  series    = {EPiC Series in Built Environment},
  volume    = {6},
  publisher = {EasyChair},
  bibsource = {EasyChair, https://easychair.org},
  issn      = {2632-881X},
  url       = {/publications/paper/pkD3},
  doi       = {10.29007/tsc2},
  pages     = {786-795},
  year      = {2025}}

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