Past questions › hsc2025-q24
2025 5 marks Extended response Software Automation (Year 12) Safety of workers (impact of automation)
NESA 2025 HSC Software Engineering exam (online) - Marking Guidelines
A construction company introduces a safety monitoring system that uses artificial intelligence. Cameras and wearable sensors track worker movements and environmental conditions. The system detects unsafe behaviours through artificial intelligence, such as: standing too close to operating machinery; entering restricted zones; failure to wear personal protective equipment (PPE). Alerts are sent in real-time to site supervisors, and long-term data is stored for further analysis. Discuss the possible impact of this monitoring system on workers. (5 marks)
Marking criteria
5: Comprehensive discussion of the impact on workers with reference to the scenario. 4: Outlines both positive AND negative ways. 3: Outlines some ways. 2: Outlines ONE way OR identifies some ways. 1: Some relevant information.
Sample answer
The AI monitoring system can improve safety on site by reducing human error through real-time alerts and remote monitoring. It can also help supervisors track workers' compliance with PPE requirements and identify risky behaviours, potentially preventing accidents. However, some workers might feel their privacy is invaded, especially if the wearables continue monitoring during breaks or in private areas like bathrooms. There's also a risk of the system misidentifying safe behaviour as unsafe, leading to unnecessary alerts or stress which could cause distractions at critical times. Additionally, the long-term data collection could be used to improve training, but workers may worry about how the data is stored or used.