Wireless sensors in traffic cones to protect workers [News Briefing]

UK COMPANIES are spearheading a European scheme aimed at reducing highway work zone deaths and injuries. The ???1m Safelane project is developing a wireless defence system for site perimeters, using ´intelligent´ traffic cones and alarm sounders to give workers prompt warnings of vehicle incursions. Improved rechargeable battery technology is another element of the project. Research for the Highways Agency (HA) indicates that a third of pedestrians killed or injured at maintenance sites are road workers, and half of all UK road workers have reported a near miss with a vehicle during their careers. The Agency is putting increased emphasis on safety alongside its current ??1.4bn road improvement programme.