Spillard Safety Systems’ Human Detection System utilises cameras, AI and a green ‘thumbs up’ to prevent people being injured by plant
Cementation Skanska is mandating the use of an AI backed human detection system technology across its fleet of large diameter piling rigs and cranes.
Contact with moving plant is one of the main causes of potential fatalities on UK construction sites.
A proximity alarm and “thumbs up” display form part of the alert system
The Spillard Safety Systems’ Human Detection System utilises a series of cameras fitted to the base of the plant that recognises people or objects if they get too close or encroach in a red exclusion zone – automatically suspending tracking and slewing of the machine to avoid contact and sounding an audible alarm.
A screen fitted in the cab provides the operator with a 360⁰ view so they can take evasive action if they spot a risk in their area of operation.
The system is complemented with a digital display on the outside of the cab. This enables the operator to provide a green ‘thumbs up’ and sound an audible recorded message that lets someone who wishes to approach or pass close by that it is safe to do so.
Rig driver George Gordon operated Cementation’s SR75 unit when the Spillard’s system was trialled. He said: “It’s good for raising awareness as it tells people there is a danger, instructing them to move away. Barriers are not enough because people can bypass them. It’s great because the system doesn’t rely on you as an operator to activate it – reducing the risk of distractions. You can get on with the job, knowing that there is an added layer of safety.”
The system can be tailored to an individual site’s needs
Detection zones can be configured to the type of plant, work activity and environment where operations are taking place. Data is communicated with the site team and a central control hub that receives live alerts, video footage of incidents, date/time and location details – all done through the Spillard Live platform.
This information will help the team with setting and optimising rules for the system, such as the distance at which audible warnings are sounded, when the machine should stop slewing and tracking, and configuring re-set and override options.
The new AI backed human detection system will improve on Cementation’s eight year old camera system
Spillard’s Human Detection System replaces a previous Cementation developed Quad-View camera system, which has been in use since 2016. Advances in technology mean that there is now an opportunity to further reduce risks and improve site safety.
Pete Spillard, managing director of Spillard Safety Systems, added his support: “We are continually innovating our solutions to deliver the safest and most efficient system possible, and this is exactly what Cementation Skanska are getting with our Human Detection System.
“The technology, which works in tandem with Spillard Live, has been developed following extensive consultation and testing with the construction industry and ensures operators and their colleagues are kept safe on site, without getting in the way of them doing their jobs.”