Civil engineering and infrastructure specialist Barhale has launched an AI-driven human recognition system that lights up an LED safety shield fitted to the outside of diggers to signal when it is safe to approach.
The new Digital Thumbs Up lights, which have so far been fitted to 26 Kubota diggers, lets machine drivers advise other workers when it is safe to approach.
It also sounds an audible alarm when somebody enters its safety exclusion zone.
The system can also report incidents by type and frequency, allowing data to be used to help improve safety behaviours on site.
When a worker wants to approach a machine, they will give a thumbs-up to the operator.
Once the operator has seen the signal, they will bring the machine to a controlled stop and press the in-cab ‘Thumbs Up’ button to isolate the machine’s controls, effectively disabling it.
Commenting on the system, Steve Day, head of hire at Barhale Construction Services, said: “We have been very impressed by both the human form recognition and Digital Thumbs Up systems.
“They are simple and straightforward and build on the established and familiar Thumbs Up procedure used by all our personnel already.”
BCS Group worked with Leicester-based BTE Plant Sales to arrange the installation.
The digital technologies have been developed by artificial intelligence, autonomous, robotic, and environmental solutions business Safety Shield Global.
Image credit: Barhale
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