RCT has implemented its Pedestrian Alert System (PAS) at a north-west Queensland mining and smelting complex, providing a practical solution to improve awareness of personnel working around heavy equipment.
The system is designed to improve operator awareness by detecting people within the camera field of view and providing real-time alerts to help operators identify and respond to personnel sooner when working in close proximity.
In this application, PAS was deployed across a range of equipment, including forklifts, skid steer loaders, cranes and backhoes, supporting the site’s focus on improving visibility when operating around personnel.
PAS uses camera intelligence to identify human forms without the need for wearable devices. Configurable detection zones allow the system to be tailored to different applications, with escalating visual and audible alerts based on a person’s proximity to the machine.
A site representative says the system was introduced to better manage interactions between people and machinery.
“The main reason for installing the PAS is to manage interactions between people and mobile equipment,” says the representative.
“The system alerts operators when someone enters a 3m exclusion zone, as required by our site procedures.”
The representative also highlights the support provided by the RCT Mount Isa team throughout the rollout.
“Customer service has been excellent; I can’t fault the team or the support I’ve received,” he says.
As part of the implementation, the system was adapted to suit site operating conditions. On selected machines, external audio and visual alarms were installed to ensure alerts remain effective in high-noise environments.
“The system has been adapted as we’ve learned what works best in our environment,” says the representative.
Designed for demanding industrial environments, PAS has demonstrated reliable performance in challenging operating conditions.
By providing real-time alerts and improving operator awareness, PAS supports safer interactions between personnel and mobile equipment across a range of applications.