Large construction and industrial sites pose a challenge to safety inspectors. When you have to oversee an area even of a few hectares, human supervision becomes inefficient. Inspectors cannot be present in all places at all times – yet accidents happen in seconds. And even the best PPE policy ‘on paper’ is not effective ‘on the ground’ when compliance is not monitored.
Introducing AI PPE Detection
EasyFlow is a Computer Vision startup specializing in AI models for industrial, manufacturing and construction applications. In 2019 the company launched a PPE detection tool, which recognizes hardhats, protective gloves, eyewear, footwear, face masks and other PPE equipment.
By utilizing on-site video security cameras, the platform would provide a constant compliance oversight. If a PPE policy breach was detected, the platform would automatically send a notification to the on-site security officer. The policy breach and corresponding video footage would be later used for incident analysis.
“We strongly felt that this tool could prevent workplace accidents. This is an area where human supervision is inefficient and latest technology advancements could be employed to make industrial and construction sites safer” – said CEO of EasyFlow Simas Jokubauskas.
Simas Jokubauskas, CEO of EasyFlow
EasyFlow later improved the PPE detection platform with a PPE inventory system, enabling companies to add custom PPE items employed at their worksite. Safety officers could create zones and specific rules where certain PPE items are mandatory (e.g. hardhats must be worn at all locations, yet face protection – only at the loading area etc.)
Taking PPE Inspection to the sky
Recently EasyFlow adapted the PPE detection model for aerial inspection.
“We received requests from clients who employ UAVs for worksite inspection. UAVs are used in large physical areas which on-site cameras cannot cover” – noted Mr Jokubauskas.
Additionally, UAVs enable unscheduled ad-hoc inspections for companies and worksite safety watchdogs.
“When occupational safety inspectors visit a site, the word spreads quickly. This traditional method of workplace safety compliance is not efficient and rarely produces actionable results” – told Mr Jokubauskas.
The method of UAV workplace inspection was trialed in the Baltic states, resulting in many policy breach detections. Employing UAVs is a quick, cost-effective and unobtrusive way to ensure PPE compliance. In addition, it showcases the ‘real world situation’ of workplace safety conditions versus the traditional occupation safety officer visit.
Partner for UAV video footage analysis
EasyFlow works with end-clients including construction and manufacturing companies, as well as occupational safety regulators. In addition, the company supports third-party drone operators with UAV video footage analysis.
“No matter where you are in the world, you simply upload UAV shot video footage to EasyFlow platform. We employ our AI models for video analysis and produce a report per client requirements” – noted Mr Jokubauskas.
Looking to improve your worksite safety? Get in touch.