Did you know SiteZone is currently helping protect people on 46 landfill sites across the UK?
Every site has its own unique challenges when it comes to managing plant–pedestrian interface (PPI) risk. And landfills are no different. In fact, they can be some of the toughest environments for both operators and safety technology.
That's why it's important to look at the risks on your own site before deciding which proximity warning system is right for you.
So, what makes landfills different?
Landfill compactors, dozers and loading shovels are some of the biggest machines you'll find on any site. They also have significant blind spots.
Combine this with changing ground levels, waste stockpiles, steep slopes and poor weather, and visibility becomes even more challenging. Operators can lose sight of people very quickly, especially around active tipping areas.
Towing, recovery and maintenance activities often represent some of the highest-risk interactions on landfill sites due to the close proximity required between personnel and plant. They need careful planning and the right controls to keep everyone safe.
We all know separating people and vehicles is best wherever it can be achieved.
The reality is that around active tipping areas, complete segregation often isn't practical. People still need access to carry out inspections, maintenance and operational tasks, so additional controls become essential.
Landfill sites frequently get visitors who aren't there every day. That could include:
Many won't be familiar with the site's traffic routes or how plant moves around the site, which increases the importance of clear procedures and effective warning systems.
Landfill sites are hard on equipment.
Dust, mud, heavy rain, poor visibility, uneven ground and constantly changing layouts all put safety systems to the test. Something that performs well in a clean industrial environment may not perform the same way on an active landfill.
If you've ever visited a landfill, you'll know how many birds gather looking for a free meal!
That, combined with dust and debris moving through the air, creates challenges for some detection technologies. Certain AI camera systems, for example, can mistake large birds for people, leading to unnecessary alerts (and trust me, I’ve seen just how big these gulls are!)
While every safety system has its strengths, nuisance alarms are something worth thinking about. If alarms sound too often without a genuine hazard, people become complacent.
Every landfill operates differently, so it's worth asking a few practical questions before selecting a technology.
The implementation of any system is just the start.
The best results come from choosing technology that suits the environment, training people properly and regularly reviewing performance. Easy to understand data, consistent use, and continuous improvement all play a part in reducing risk over the long term.
At SiteZone, we've worked with landfill operators across the UK for many years, so we've learnt first-hand what works, and what doesn’t. Taking the time to understand your site is key, and it’s why we always start with a site survey.
Want us to visit your landfill? Book a free site survey today.