Balfour Beatty turns to human recognition cameras on UK sites

A telehandler fitted with human form recognition (image: Balfour Beatty)

Balfour says that it is the first Tier One contractor to mandate this in the UK, and that it is doing so to improve health and safety.

This latest technology is designed to proactively cover  so-called ‘Blind Spots’. The cameras detect the human form and will trigger an alarm to alert pedestrians and the operator of the plant to the potential risk.

The human form recognition cameras will be mandated 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.

In addition to the camera, a ‘digital thumbs up’ system has 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.

Alongside the on-site alarms, data collection and sharing of hazards and incursions from the technology will enable site discussions and change individual and site behaviours.

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.

Balfour Beatty Chief Technology Officer Chris Johnson, commented 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.

“By mandating these new strident measures, we will continue this positive trajectory and ensure that everyone gets home safe, everyday.”