Metro Trains Melbourne signs deal with Laing O'Rourke

Metro Trains Melbourne signs deal with Laing O’Rourke

Metro Trains Melbourne and Laing O’Rourke have signed an agreement to deploy an artificial intelligence safety system across metropolitan project sites in Melbourne.

According to Laing O’Rourke Managing Director Cathal O’Rourke, the technology detects objects, understands what they and then determines what actions to take in real-time to improve safety on work sites.

“When a person or another vehicle is detected in the blindspot or another specified zone, the Toolbox Spotter triggers flashing lights and a vibrating wristband to alert the driver and work crews,” Mr. O’Rourke said.

“User-configurable alerts aim to increase awareness, particularly during night works, and improve safety.”

Mr. O’Rourke said the company was thrilled to partner with Metro to pioneer the large-scale adoption of innovative technology that has the potential to make Australian workplaces safer.

“Safety is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to finding new and innovative ways to keep our people safe, and improve work practices across the industry,” Mr. O’Rourke said.

“After extensive testing and close collaboration with a range of our key clients in construction, rail, logistics, mining, and manufacturing, we are extremely proud to now offer Toolbox Spotter to project sites.”

Metro General Infrastructure Manager Peter Munro said the technology was a game-changer to improve safety on project sites.

“The safety of Metro employees and passengers is our number one priority,” Mr. Munro said.

“We are carrying out around $6 million in maintenance and renewal on the metropolitan rail network each week, and these Toolbox Spotters are going a long way to ensure our Infrastructure teams are kept safe on the job.”