Safety Shield Global has highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in preventing workplace accidents, with its Human Form Recognition technology designed to detect workers operating near heavy machinery.
The company reports that its computer vision system achieves 99.6% detection accuracy and has helped reduce incidents by an average of 70% at sites where it has been deployed.
AI supports real time hazard detection
The technology uses cameras and artificial intelligence to identify people around mobile plant, providing operators with immediate visual and audible warnings.
By processing information locally through Edge AI, the system can operate without relying entirely on cloud connectivity.
This approach is intended to reduce delays in delivering warnings and maintain functionality in environments with limited network coverage.
Technology developed for demanding environments
Safety Shield Global has spent more than 15 years developing its Human Form Recognition technology.
Originally designed for construction applications, the system is now used across quarrying, waste and recycling, forestry, logistics and agriculture.
Jonathan Guest, Founder and CEO of Safety Shield Global, said: “Construction has always presented one of the most challenging environments for artificial intelligence. Machinery is constantly moving, weather conditions change, visibility varies and every site is different.
“If AI can perform reliably in those conditions, it demonstrates just how far the technology has come.
“The opportunity isn’t to replace people. It’s to give operators greater awareness and help prevent incidents before they happen.”
Collaboration with Komatsu
Safety Shield Global has collaborated with Komatsu to introduce a factory fitted Human Detection System.
The development enables detection technology to be integrated directly into construction equipment rather than installed after delivery.
The company says this reflects increasing adoption of intelligent safety systems within industrial machinery.
Developing predictive safety capabilities
Safety Shield is also developing its Nexus technology, currently focused on AI powered risk categorisation.
Simon Bailey, Head of Research and Development, said: “”Over the past decade, AI has evolved from experimental technology into practical, real-world systems capable of operating in demanding industrial environments.
“Advances in computer vision, machine learning and edge processing have significantly improved detection accuracy while reducing false positives.
“We’re continually evaluating emerging AI models and hardware to ensure our technology evolves alongside the wider AI landscape.”
