Pingshan expands remote monitoring of construction sites

The remote monitoring for law enforcement in Pingshan has progressed from overseeing overtime construction and excessive noise at construction sites to include dust control measures.

Initiated in Pingshan in 2020, this innovative approach to law enforcement utilizes remote video monitoring and advanced noise monitoring technology, such as sound level meters and acoustic cameras. These tools enable real-time monitoring of construction sites, allowing authorities to remotely cease work if overtime activities or excessive noise are detected. This innovative enforcement model has since been promoted nationwide by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment.

Previously, law enforcement personnel had to carry portable noise monitoring equipment to construction sites and request third-party testing agencies to issue reports for evidence of administrative penalties. This often led to work stoppages at the construction sites, resulting in difficulties in establishing evidence. Now, with the implementation of remote monitoring videos as admissible evidence, complaints about construction noise in Pingshan have substantially decreased. The number of complaints over construction noise dropped by 70.8% in the second half of 2023 and by 67.3% in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year.

A staffer uses the remote monitoring system for law enforcement in Pingshan. Photo from Government Services and Data Management Bureau of Pingshan District 

The remote monitoring system has now been upgraded to include dust control supervision. The new system leverages AI video algorithms to capture photos of bare soil exposure, entrance and exit washing, and hardened road surfaces at construction sites. It employs a functioning surveillance system to oversee fence water-spraying operations and promptly addresses any issues through the district's intelligent management command platform. This approach ensures comprehensive oversight of overtime construction, excessive noise, and dust mitigation measures.

Currently, 26 key constructions sites in Pingshan are monitored under this system, successfully flagging 329 cases of dust violations and ensuring timely corrective actions.

Pingshan's remote monitoring initiatives have not only enhanced law enforcement efficiency but have also played a crucial role in establishing the national intelligent social governance experimental base, participating in several noise control projects and research endeavors. By promptly addressing illegal dust concerns, Pingshan has mitigated environmental impacts and reduced the risk of regulatory penalties for enterprises, thereby fostering a more favorable business environment. In the first half of 2024, Pingshan achieved an outstanding air quality index of 98.9%, ranking at the top in the city.