# Securing Construction Workers' Data Security and Privacy with Blockchain Technology
## 1 Introduction
Addressing this issue is vital, as highlighted by [PERSON] et al. [20], who emphasize that identity theft is a widespread concern across various sectors, including construction. Malicious individuals might exploit the personal details of construction personnel, such as ID numbers and addresses, for fraudulent purposes. Thus, safeguarding workers' personal data from identity theft emerges as a critical need. Doing so not only protects their well-being but also upholds the integrity of the construction field and fosters a secure work environment. While traditional data management approaches, such as centralized databases, physical safeguards, and the need-to-know principle, have had some level of efficiency, critical challenges, including lack of transparency, susceptibility to unauthorized access, breaches, and theft [21], necessitate a shift towards more advanced privacy management practices and the adoption of secure and efficient digital solutions. Moreover, the increase in digitization and data-driven processes in the construction industry have further amplified the importance of protecting workers' personal information [22; 23; 24]. By implementing these digital solutions, the construction industry can streamline privacy-related processes, including consent management [25; 26], handling data subject requests [27], and conducting privacy impact assessments [28], thus resulting in improved efficiency and compliance. However, it is vital for the construction industry to carefully select and implement these digital solutions by considering various factors, such as data security, scalability, interoperability, and alignment with privacy regulations. Recognizing these challenges, this study aimed to address the problem of effectively managing construction workers' personal information while prioritizing their privacy and safety. To achieve this, this study focused on leveraging the Hyperledger Fabric blockchain framework, which offers a permissioned and modular architecture tailored for business networks, to develop an information management model that provides secure storage and controlled access to workers' data. The adoption of a private blockchain specifically built on the Hyperledger Fabric framework was a strategic choice driven by the unique needs and considerations of the construction industry [29]. Unlike public blockchains, private blockchains restrict access to authorized participants, thus offering a heightened level of control and privacy, which is imperative when dealing with sensitive information [30], such as construction workers' personal and safety data. The permissioned nature of the blockchain ensures that only designated stakeholders, including project managers, engineers, and regulatory bodies, have access to the stored information. This enhanced control mitigates the risks associated with unauthorized access, a critical aspect when prioritizing the privacy and security of construction workers' data. The integration of blockchain technology within the construction industry marks a significant scientific advancement. The application of blockchain principles, including decentralization, immutability, and transparency, offers a novel approach to address the intricate challenges associated with information management in construction projects. According to [PERSON] et al. [31], the scientific underpinning of blockchain ensures a tamper-resistant and decentralized data storage system, thus fundamentally altering the conventional landscape of information management. The scientific principles of data security and privacy are integral to this study. By leveraging cryptographic techniques and a decentralized structure, blockchain enhances the security of sensitive data in the construction sector. As noted by [PERSON] et al. [32], the immutable nature of blockchain ensures that once data are recorded, they cannot be altered or manipulated, thus providing a robust foundation for securing construction workers' personal information.