Digital Construction

Guidance for smart plant proximity alert technology issued

Photo of construction plant from BCS Group demonstrating the thumbs-up procedure for plant proximity alert story — The digital thumbs-up replicates the well-known thumbs-up procedure used in construction (Image: BCS Group)

Best practice guidance for plant-mounted proximity alert technology has been issued.

Entitled Good Practice Guidance for the Use of Machine-Mounted Human Form Recognition Systems (HFRS), the publication is a response to the increased use of the technology.

HFRS use camera-based technology combined with AI to identify people near machinery, enhancing safety by alerting operators and others to potential hazards.

The guidance, produced by the Construction Industry Plant Safety Group, provides advice for plant owners, users, operators, managers, OEMs and third-party suppliers about considerations for the fitment, use and management of HFRS installed on plant.

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CM has reported on many developments in this area, whether led by plant manufacturers, hirers or contractors. HFRS has featured regularly on the shortlists for the Digital Construction Awards.

Consistency needed for emerging tech

Aaron Davis, chair of the HFRS working group said: “Borne of a need to generate consistency within industry, the working group started work on the guidance in late September 2024 and although a challenging piece of work, the publication has been produced in good time.

“We recognise that HFRS are still an emerging technology and with limited applicable standards currently available, some of the technical specifications within the publication are currently an industry aspiration. However, the overall aim is to meet the needs of the sector in providing reliable and accurate systems. Although HFRS are currently only safety aids to people/plant interface requirements, OEMs and suppliers are working in partnership with the sector to encourage future development of trustworthy products and systems.”

He added: “Although the guidance is both comprehensive and technical in nature, our next task is to produce a companion summary publication that outlines the key points of HFRS use. With the technology fast-moving, we further intend to undertake a review programme of the publication in approximately 12 months’ time.”

The Construction Industry Plant Safety Group is pan-sector group managed by the Construction Plant-hire Association and set up through the Health & Safety Executive (HSE). The HFRS working group consists of 25 representatives from plant owners, contractors, OEM/equipment suppliers and the HSE, along with other supporters.