Amey has boosted the safety of highways workers by unveiling new technology which helps to reduce the risks of accidents for both drivers and lone engineers.
The wearable technology contains biometric and location devices, including a collar drowsiness detector and ear clip measuring changes in blood flow which are indicators of attention loss and an initial sign of fatigue.
Other features include a ruggedised wrist-worn vital band which monitors vital signs and environmental factors to alert employees to signs of heat stress, as well as providing other information such as a sudden change in posture indicating a trip or fall, and the wearer's exertion level.
The wearer can also activate a location badge which sends an instant alert in the event of a threat or injury.
The technology, provided by Fujitsu, was piloted by Amey during an eight-week trial on Highways England's North East Regional Technology Maintenance Contract.
The company said it is now considering a detailed report on the tech's capabilities for improving staff safety across its business and plans to evaluate other devices and suppliers
Principal engineer for intelligent transport systems, Mike Kehoe, said: "We are always looking for ways to increase worker safety and wearable safety technology has huge possibilities.
"Our eight week trial on Highways England's North East Regional Technology Maintenance Contract really put it through its paces. Every member of staff on that contract drives a vehicle and can be out at any time of the day or night, in all weathers or in locations like embankments and next to live traffic.
"We found that the tech is transferable to other situations and could potentially provide a wealth of data about the wellbeing of our people which will help us improve general safety.
"We have more work to do to evaluate the market and look at ways to make the tech useable every day for our people.
"It's definitely the future, and many organisations, including Highways England, are looking at the concept. By putting our workers first we are on the way to making it a reality."
(LM)
Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Latest Construction News
21/11/2024
Stepnell has opened its new office in Liverpool, marking a significant step in the company's expansion into the North West. Building on its extensive experience delivering projects across the East and West Midlands as well as South of England, Stepnell is well positioned to serve a broader range ...
21/11/2024
Kier has announced a partnership with Sunbelt Rentals, naming the company as its official supplier of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel. The move marks a significant step in Kier's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance sustainability across its operations. Over the next year, ...
21/11/2024
Esh Construction has been appointed to lead the next stage of one of the UK's most ambitious urban regeneration initiatives, Riverside Sunderland. In collaboration with Sunderland City Council, the company will deliver a £5.7 million package of infrastructure upgrades to drive forward this ...
21/11/2024
Families in Penarth will soon benefit from a new £22 million school designed specifically for pupils with Additional Learning Needs (ALNs). Named Ysgol Llyn Derw by its students, the project is being delivered by Morgan Sindall Construction after the previous contractor, ISG, entered ...
21/11/2024
Europe's leading online cleanroom consumables supplier, Cleanroomshop, has recently launched a brand-new website, giving its users an improved user experience. The new website continues to offer over 2,000 products from more than 40 brands, whilst incorporating a new look and more efficient ...
21/11/2024
At Ecomerchant, we offer a carefully curated selection of sustainable weatherproofing solutions, including natural lime renders, mineral finishes, and vapour-open waterproofing materials. They help prevent structural damage while ensuring your building can breathe naturally. Our eco-friendly ...
21/11/2024
The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) has launched a public consultation on its proposal to close the Moorgate Halt level crossing in Uppermill, Saddleworth, and replace it with an upgraded public right of way. The TRU project aims to transform rail journeys across the North of England by offering ...
21/11/2024
The GRAHAM Hydrogen Conference recently brought together leading voices in the construction industry to explore hydrogen’s potential as a cornerstone of a net-zero future. The event drew positive feedback from attendees and the critical role hydrogen can play in achieving sustainability goals. The ...
20/11/2024
Construction firm Willmott Dixon has partnered with Westminster City Council on a £36 million project to restore the historic Seymour Centre in Marylebone, a Grade II listed building dating back to the 1930s. The project, procured through the SCF framework, will see the three-storey centre undergo ...
20/11/2024
The Hill Group has commenced work on a new development in Billericay, Essex, which will deliver 179 high-quality homes across a 20-acre site. Designed to blend with Billericay's scenic countryside while addressing the pressing demand for sustainable housing, the project is located on Kennel Lane ...