In an era dominated by technological marvels like drones, wearables, 5G, and Artificial Intelligence, it's imperative to harness these innovations intelligently for the betterment of worker safety and the security of our transportation and energy infrastructures. In this article, we delve into the pioneering work of SafetyLAB, an innovation laboratory that is revolutionizing safety through cutting-edge technologies.

SafetyLAB: Pioneering a Culture of Safety

In 2019, a pivotal question emerged at the forefront of innovation: "How can we make people safer?" This question led to the birth of SafetyLAB, an innovation laboratory committed to adopting novel methodologies and technologies to enhance safety conditions for both workers and users of critical infrastructures. With over 15 projects under its belt, spanning all business units, SafetyLAB has emerged as a vanguard of change in the realm of health and safety.

Technology as the Catalyst for Change

SafetyLAB functions as a crucible where knowledge, experiences, challenges, and innovative solutions converge, fostering a collective culture of health and safety. One of its distinguishing features is its laser focus on addressing specific, substantial safety challenges by first identifying existing risks in various job roles. This approach ultimately grants workers greater security and autonomy in their tasks.

Safework: Redefining Safety on Construction Sites

One of SafetyLAB's inaugural initiatives was Safework, designed to support workers operating heavy construction vehicles. By providing a wider field of vision and faster reaction times, Safework significantly reduces the risk of crashes and accidents. This ingenious system equips drivers with vital information about their surroundings, eliminating blind spots and potential hazards. Additionally, Safework detects motion around the vehicle and promptly alerts both the driver and nearby individuals. With over 7,000 hours of operation, this solution has already made its mark in Spain and the United States, with more than 20 vehicles and 100 users benefiting from its capabilities.

Active Light Vest: Illuminating Safety on Roads

SafetyLAB's Active Light initiative focuses on enhancing the visibility of operators working on roads. While reflective vests are the norm, they may not always suffice in ensuring visibility. Enter the Active Light vest, equipped with active lights and LED technology, which boosts a worker's visibility by a staggering 700%, extending their detectability from 50 meters to an impressive 350 meters. Unlike traditional reflective gear, this vest emits its light source, enhancing safety further.

Moreover, this intelligent vest operates autonomously through a device connected to a central control center. In case of emergencies, such as a worker requiring assistance (SOS Alert – Man Down Warning), the control center is alerted within five seconds, ensuring swift response and enhancing road worker safety. Currently operational on the A-66 motorway in Zamora, this solution is set to expand to other Cintra concessions worldwide, encompassing more than 50 vests in active use.

VR Training Awareness: Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

Employee training takes center stage at SafetyLAB, epitomized by the VR Training Awareness initiative. This pioneering endeavor employs Virtual Reality technology to deliver immersive training courses in high-risk environments. Through VR glasses, employees can simulate working on scaffolds, operating heavy machinery, or navigating hazardous terrain, translating theoretical knowledge into practical skills within a lifelike virtual environment.

These courses, currently available in Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have already accumulated more than 150 hours of educational content and have trained over 100 individuals. The program's expansion to additional countries is on the horizon, promising a safer and more knowledgeable workforce worldwide.

Peer Review: A New Dimension of Site Monitoring

SafetyLAB's inventive prowess extends to the realm of remote site monitoring with the Peer Review project. This solution facilitates real-time video calls, allowing off-site personnel to observe on-site activities. Integrated into work helmets, a camera provides a hands-free, mobile-free solution for sharing live visuals with remote parties.

These smart helmets also incorporate a microphone and headphones for communication, as well as the ability to capture photos and videos. Crucially, they feature fall detection capabilities, instantly alerting emergency services or colleagues in the event of an accident. With more than 100 interactions already conducted, this solution is making its mark in Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States, offering an invaluable layer of safety and communication.

In the modern age, technology isn't merely a tool for convenience or entertainment; it's a catalyst for transformation. SafetyLAB's pioneering initiatives exemplify the remarkable potential of technology in enhancing health, safety, and security across various domains. By embracing innovation, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to making the world safer, SafetyLAB is forging a brighter and safer future for workers and infrastructure users alike. As we continue to harness technology intelligently, the horizon for improving health and safety becomes boundless, promising a safer and more secure world for all.