Introduction to Proximity Warning Systems
Proximity warning systems have a significant impact on workplace safety, starting with their proactive alerts. The type of alert depends on the application, but these generally range from audible and visual alerts to the operator to haptic feedback to the pedestrian.
These systems are commonly used to actively avoid collisions between pedestrians and vehicles, other moving vehicles, and stationary assets. They are often linked with data management software that allows site managers to analyse key insights such as near-misses and collision hotspots.
Various technologies enable this, such as radio-frequency systems (RFID and UWB) and visual-based systems (radar and AI cameras). These are incorporated into many different vehicles on site, from smaller material-handling equipment, such as forklifts, to heavy machinery, such as excavators.
The way in which these are embedded depends on the solution. There are many modular proximity warning systems, such as ZoneSafe and Proxicam, that can be retrofitted to any vehicle, while more and more OEMs are offering all-in-one solutions. The problem lies in the presence of several types of vehicles on site. Proximity warning systems are usually incompatible with other providers, which leaves little protection for the rest of your fleet when using an OEM system. Rather than investing in an entirely new fleet, the ability to retrofit technology regardless of vehicle make, model, or age ensures that the same active alert system shields all vehicles.
In this article, we assess the feasibility of installing a modular solution, such as ZoneSafe, versus OEM integration for popular brands, including Linde and Still.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Modular proximity warning systems are highly adaptable. In this context, modular means that the safety system hardware is an asset separate from the vehicle.
ZoneSafe, for example, can be repurposed and transferred to newer vehicles once old ones are retired. Modular proximity warnings systems therefore have a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) due to their ability to extend their life beyond the vehicle. Conversely, the OEM system is permanently tied to the original vehicle and cannot be used after its retirement. The cost is repaid over the vehicle’s life and becomes less cost-effective if the vehicle is retired early, even though the system remains functional.
Another strength of modular proximity warning systems is that they support an older, existing fleet that still relies on additional technology. OEM integration is primarily aimed at new MHE sales, which may be impractical for your business if you operate a large, mixed fleet. That said, if you are looking to build a brand-new fleet, the advantage of an OEM-integrated solution is that it is built in at the factory before delivery.
Safety and Consistency
Proximity warning systems, as mentioned, are highly influential in workplace safety and risk mitigation. There are key differences, however, between modular and OEM integrated solutions in this regard.
First, an omni fleet solution such as ZoneSafe provides consistent levels of protection across your operations regardless of vehicle type or age. On the other hand, OEM integration does not deliver a uniform solution that detects different vehicles on site.
Although various kinds of modular proximity warning systems exist with different features, ZoneSafe excels in its coverage. The proximity warning system achieves a whole 360-degree detection field, with adjustable zones for a customised safety solution. OEM integration often relies on AI camera systems that do not provide the same coverage, require a line of sight, and usually have fixed detection zones.
Finally, ZoneSafe gives site managers more options to customise their alerts, whether it is to warn operators or pedestrians, compared to OEM integration, which is often one-way.
Cost and Investment
When considering your investment, you must think about both the short-term and long-term. Modular proximity warning systems can offer a lower upfront cost per vehicle when they are retrofitted to an existing fleet. OEM integration usually has a higher upfront cost, as the technology is included in the purchase price of a new machine.
Modular systems offer lower CAPEX across your fleet compared to OEM integration, where a safety cost is tied to a depreciating vehicle asset.
It is also easier to upgrade components or features without replacing the vehicle. To achieve the same with OEM integration, you may need to buy a new MHE unit.
Modular Proximity Warning Systems or OEM Integration?
Being aware of all your options before investing is key. If price is an initial barrier, then opting for a modular solution may be a wise choice. When you go with ZoneSafe, you also benefit from the broadest range of features, from adjustable detection zones to impactful alerts to both operators and pedestrians.
Ultimately, the choice is yours, and if investing in an entire new fleet appeals to you, then OEM integration could be the way forward. However, if multiple vehicles are operating on site, we suggest that ZoneSafe is the most robust and sustainable solution.
If you’d like to know more about our modular proximity warning systems, please contact ZoneSafe.
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