Cementation Skanska is installing AI-backed human detection technology on piling rigs and cranes to set what it called industry-leading standards for construction safety
Contact with moving plant is one of the main causes of potential fatalities on construction sites. To help reduce risks, Cementation is mandating the installation of the Human Detection System on its fleet of large diameter piling rigs and cranes.
The technology, developed by Spillard Safety Systems, uses a series of cameras fitted to the base of construction plant that recognise people or objects if they get too close to or enter a red exclusion zone.
When triggered, it automatically suspends tracking and slewing of the machine to avoid contact and sounds an audible alarm.
A screen in the cab provides a 360-degree view so operators can take evasive action if they spot a risk.
The system also includes a screen with a digital display outside the cab. This enables the operator to show a green ‘thumbs up’ and sound a recorded message that lets someone who wishes to approach or pass by that it is safe to do so.
‘Make sure everyone goes home safely every day’
Andy Entwistle, managing director of Cementation Skanska, believes technology has a pivotal role in construction safety.
“We are determined to do all that we can to reduce and eliminate risks from our sites,” he said.
“Through our collaboration with Spillard Safety Systems, we have been able to develop an approach to configuring and installing these 360-degree cameras that will support safer ways of working.”
“We want to ensure that everyone goes home safely every day. These cameras, combined with our open, inclusive and collaborative working culture, will help to ensure that happens.”
AI human detection: How it works
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 through the Spillard Live platform.
This information helps the team setting rules for the system, such as the distance at which audible warnings are sounded, when the machine should stop slewing and tracking, and configuring reset and override options.
The Human Detection System replaces a previous Cementation-developed Quad-View camera system, which had been in use since 2016. The technology has been developed following extensive consultation and testing in the construction industry.
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.”
