Balfour Beatty has become the first Tier One contractor to mandate human recognition cameras on specific items of plant and machinery across all its UK operations.
The latest Work-related Fatal Injuries report by the Health and Safety Executive highlights that the construction sector consistently accounts for the highest number of worker fatalities in the UK. Among these incidents, 18% are due to workers being struck by moving vehicles.
As part of its Zero Harm mission, Balfour Beatty has introduced human recognition technology to mitigate the risks associated with the interaction between people and machinery. This technology is designed to address the “Blind Spots” around the plant. The cameras detect human forms and trigger an alarm to alert pedestrians and plant operators of potential risks.
Additionally, a ‘digital thumbs up’ system has been implemented, allowing plant operators to temporarily disable the machine to let individuals approach safely. This system displays a no-entry sign around the machine, which changes to a green thumbs up symbol when the operator signals that it is safe to approach.
Besides the on-site alarms, the technology will collect and share data on hazards and incursions, facilitating site discussions and promoting changes in individual and site behaviors.
Balfour Beatty will mandate human form recognition cameras on excavators over 13 tonnes, forward-tipping dumpers over 6 tonnes, articulated dump trucks over 9 tonnes, rollers of 13 tonnes and above, as well as telehandlers, dozers, and wheeled loaders.
Balfour Beatty’s Chief Technology Officer, Chris Johnson, discussed the company’s commitment to leveraging technology for safety:
“At Balfour Beatty, we believe that our long-term success relies on our ability to keep our workforce, suppliers, subcontractors, and the public safe. This is of utmost importance and our biggest priority.
“Today’s announcement is another critical step towards eliminating harm across all Balfour Beatty projects. By mandating these new measures, we will continue to ensure that everyone gets home safe every day.”
The human form recognition requirement for plants on Balfour Beatty projects across the UK came into effect in June this year and will be rolled out to supply chain partners as a standard in 2025.
