An AI-enabled system is to be trialled to help improve the safety of roadworkers, writes Peter Brown.
Forsite Connected Safety will be trialled across Scotland’s trunk road network to detect dangerous driving as vehicles approach roadworks and provide staff with early-warning alerts through wearable technology.
Using cameras and radar, the system monitors oncoming traffic for speeding and erratic driving behaviour.
Cabinet secretary for transport Stephen Flynn said: “Our roadworkers play a vital role in keeping Scotland moving, and they should be able to carry out their jobs safely.
“This trial of innovative camera technology aims to better protect staff carrying out essential maintenance by providing earlier warning of potentially dangerous driving.
“Sadly, vehicle incursions into roadworks have become an industry-wide issue in recent years. That’s why we are taking action to improve the safety of our workforce. I look forward to seeing the results of this trial and the positive impact this technology could have on protecting roadworkers.”
Tom Milner, UK/Europe commercial and operations lead at Forsite Connected Safety, said: “Forsite is built around a simple principle: providing time to act changes the outcome. The earlier a worker is alerted to the risk of a dangerous vehicle, the more time they have to act.
“This technology is about giving roadworkers a clear, direct warning when approaching vehicles present an increased risk, and providing teams with accurate, objective site information to proactively inform and improve safety controls for their workers.”
Contractors BEAR Scotland and Amey will use the system.
