Geofencing, a location-based technology, is revolutionising the infrastructure sector, especially rail, in the UK. Creating virtual perimeters improves worksite visibility, bolsters safety, and optimises asset management. This technology will shape the industry’s future, promising enhanced efficiency and reduced costs.
Introduction
New technologies continuously emerge and reshape various sectors in the digital transformation era. One such technology that has garnered significant attention is geofencing. This article delves into geofencing’s applications, benefits, and future in infrastructure, especially in the UK.
Understanding Geofencing Technology
Geofencing in infrastructure utilises digital coordinates to delineate a virtual boundary, removing the need for physical barriers. It offers real-time information on who or what has entered or exited a geofenced area, enhancing visibility and control over worksites.
Using geofencing technology to create virtual borders that trigger actions when crossed allows for real-time monitoring, response, and enhanced control over operations, making geofencing a potent tool for organisations.
Geofencing in Project Delivery
Geofencing has applications in various stages of project delivery, including planning and operation. It is pivotal in security, material visibility, and safety, optimising the overall project execution process.
In project delivery, geofencing enhances planning and operation. It permits real-time monitoring of assets and personnel, ensuring efficient resource use and compliance with safety protocols. The technology can also trigger automated responses based on geofence interactions, further optimising project execution.
Enhancing Security with Geofencing
Geofencing bolsters security by sending notifications if heavy plant machinery and equipment leave a geofenced zone. Wearable devices help deter theft and reduce costs associated with equipment replacement.
Beyond theft prevention, geofencing enhances security by triggering alerts in secure zones, enabling a proactive approach to security, making it an invaluable tool in today’s digital age.
Improving Material Visibility
Geofencing alerts managers in real time when materials are delivered to a worksite. Asset tracking leads to better onsite planning, reduced waiting time, and improved efficiency.
With geofencing, managers can monitor the arrival of materials and control access to specific resources. This technology can restrict material spreading and ensure resources are only accessible in particular areas or during certain times. This level of control can significantly improve operational efficiency and reduce waste.
Boosting Site Safety
Geofencing improves site safety by digitally mapping unsafe areas. It alerts workers if they approach hazardous regions, helping them regain situational awareness and move back to a position of safety.
Geofencing also enables regular safety checks within its boundaries. These checks, confirmed by GPS tracking, ensure protocols are adhered to, reducing risks and enhancing safety across multiple sites.
The Economic Impact of Safety
Enhanced site safety has far-reaching benefits. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the construction sector’s injury cost was £660M in 2018/19. Geofencing can significantly reduce these costs.
Geofencing contributes economically by enhancing site security and preventing theft, reducing project delays and damage costs. It provides a cost-effective solution to keep projects on schedule, leading to productivity gains and reduced administrative and insurance charges.
The Future of Infrastructure Projects
The future of geofencing in the infrastructure industry is promising. Geofencing’s improved efficiency and safety can help deliver projects within tight schedules, keeping costs down even as material prices rise.
Geofencing will become even more integral to infrastructure projects as we look towards the future. With AI and machine learning advancements, we can expect more sophisticated geofencing capabilities, including predictive analytics for safety and efficiency. The Internet of Things (IoT) expansion will also increase data collection, leading to further optimisation of project execution and cost savings.
Conclusion
Geofencing technology is set to revolutionise the infrastructure industry. Its applications in various sectors increase safety and efficiency. Geofencing is evolving into an essential asset protection and risk management tool as it becomes more efficient and refined with the augmented use of GPS tracking; the infrastructure industry benefits significantly from this technology.
Interested in geofencing in rail for improved worker safety and operational efficiency? Contact RSS Infrastructure’s Track Warning Services division to discuss our Geofencing service with Jason Fidoe, our Technical Manager, at 0330 113 0004 or geofencing@rssinfrastructure.com.
