Sometimes being excluded is a good thing. Why? The leading causes of injuries and fatalities to construction workers is being crushed or hit by mobile plant equipment. The most effective way to prevent this? Exclusion zones. In this article we’ll dive into some examples and why they are needed on site.
What Defines an Exclusion Zone?
Let’s start with the basics.The definition is in the name itself – creating a prohibited zone to enforce safe distances between machines (or hazards) from people. Exclusion zones exist to enable high risk work to take place. A common example is mobile plant equipment, such as forklifts or excavators. Exclusion zones are also required for trenches 1.5 metres or deeper.
Common Types of Zones:
- – Nightline: highly reflective, hi vis rope or line for a temporary barrier visible at night.
- – Solid Fencing: more permanent structure to keep unsafe areas free from traffic. More common for construction sites that border pedestrian walkways.
- – Barrier: could be permanent or temporary such as water filled traffic barriers that ensure passing vehicles do not enter construction areas.
All three should be accompanied by clear signage informing of hazards ahead and restricted access.
Determining When An Exclusion Zone is Needed
Keeping pedestrians and workers separated from mobile plant equipment is the easiest way to avoid incidents. When this is not possible, exclusion zones are utilised to manage the risk on site. They are usually part of a more detailed plan such as a safe working method statement (SWMS). A SWMS is a written document detailing health and safety risks associated with work required and the measures required to control these hazards. This can include the machinery being used, materials handled and the type of work carried out.
These documents are extremely important for identifying and recommending safe ways to operate. The risk of incidents is increased when construction sites have multiple contractors on site and tight deadlines. Comprehensive inductions and regular toolbox talks can remind all workers of the hazards and their responsibility to mitigate them.
Maintaining Exclusion Zones With Pedestrian Detection Systems
We mentioned above that the best way to prevent incidents on site is to remove machinery all together. In most cases this is not feasible. When plant equipment is required exclusion zones must be enforced. But what happens when a member of the public enters a restricted space? Maybe a temporary barrier was damaged or signage missing? Regardless of the reason, mistakes can occur.
Plant equipment operators can have significant blind spots, reducing their likelihood of spotting a breach. When these occur a Pedestrian Detection & Proximity Warning System can help reduce fatal collisions. A PDS like Proxicam, uses AI object recognition to identify humans. When the customised pre-defined exclusion zone is breached, an immediate alert will warn the operator of a proximity breach. Using computer vision instead of RFID wearables, Proxicam is always aware when someone enters an exclusion zone.
Exclusion zones form a critical aspect of construction site management, ensuring the safety of workers and pedestrians alike. By establishing clear boundaries and enforcing restricted access to hazardous areas, these zones minimise the risk of incidents caused by proximity to machinery or other potential dangers. Their implementation is essential for promoting a culture of safety and reducing the likelihood of workplace incidents.