Balfour Beatty is making human recognition cameras compulsory on large plant and machinery across all of its UK operations.
Balfour claimed it is the first tier one firm to make the move and said it will be rolled out across its supply chain from next year.
This latest technology is designed to proactively cover “Blind Spots” around machines. The cameras detect the human form and will trigger an alarm to alert pedestrians and the operator of the plant to the potential risk.
In addition to the camera, a ‘digital thumbs up’ system has also been introduced so plant operators can temporarily disable the machine to allow individuals to approach – creating a no entry sign outside the machine which turns into a green thumbs up symbol, when the operator signals that it is safe to approach.
Balfour Beatty will mandate human form recognition cameras on excavators above 13 tonnes, forward tipping dumpers over 6 tonnes, articulated dump trucks weighing more than 9 tonnes, rollers of 13 tonnes and above as well as telehandlers, dozers,and wheeled loaders.
Balfour Beatty Chief Technology Officer Chris Johnson said: “We believe that our long-term success is dependent upon our ability to keep our workforce, suppliers, subcontractors and members of the public safe. It is of utmost importance and our biggest priority.
“Today’s announcement is another important step towards eliminating harm across all Balfour Beatty projects. By mandating these new strident measures, we will continue this positive trajectory and ensure that everyone gets home safe, everyday.”
The human form recognition requirement for plantson Balfour Beatty projects across the UK is now in effect and will be rolled out to supply chain partners as a standard in 2025.
