Real-time locating systems applications in construction

• A total of 75 articles about RTLS application in construction industry were reviewed.
• Many research studies are experimental, with limited on-site application.
• Accuracy is of paramount importance for wider RTLS adoption in construction field.
• Current research focuses on positioning of workers, resources & materials data.
• RTLS should extend to construction health & safety and facilities management.

Real-time locating systems (RTLSs) are considered an effective way to identify and track the location of an object in both indoor and outdoor environments. Various RTLSs have been developed and made commercially available in recent years. Research into RTLSs in the construction sector is ubiquitous, and results have been published in many construction-related academic journals over the past decade. A succinct and systematic review of current applications would help academics, researchers, and industry practitioners in identifying existing research deficiencies and therefore future research directions. However, such a review is lacking to date.This paper provides a framework for understanding RTLS research and development in the construction literature over the last decade. The research opportunities and directions of construction RTLS are highlighted. Background information relating to construction RTLS trends, accuracy, deployment, cost, purposes, advantages, and limitations is provided. Four major research gaps are identified and research opportunities and directions are highlighted.