Prevention of Collisions Between Mobile Machinery and Pedestrian Workers: A Review of Proximity Detection Technologies

Abstract

The risk of collisions between mobile industrial equipment and pedestrian workers represents a major occupational health and safety concern, particularly on construction sites. The use of driver assistance systems, such as proximity detection devices designed to warn workers and equipment operators of potential collision hazards, is an increasingly explored and rapidly evolving prevention strategy. This article proposes a review of the various proximity detection technologies available for managing these collision risks on construction sites, and through consultation of suppliers, portrays the key market challenges, product characteristics, customer needs, installation-related issues, as well as the strengths and limitations of these different technologies. The results highlight the technical, human, and organizational complexity associated with the selection and implementation of proximity detection technologies. Successful deployment relies not only on technological performance, but also on user acceptance, adaptability to real work contexts, and the ability of these systems to support operators’ vigilance without overloading it.

Keywords: Mobile Machinery, Collisions, Proximity Detection Devices, AI-based camera systems, RFID systems, Radar, Ultrasonic sensors

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1008120