Industries such as mining, quarrying, agriculture, construction and waste all use huge machines and plant equipment, which by their very nature pose a danger if they are not managed safely. Blind spots tend to be much larger on these vehicles and include not only the rear and nearside but also the front, especially with elevated driver positions. Terrains are harsher, vehicles are exposed to the elements more aggressively whilst thick dust and darkness
decrease visibility further.

The ISO 5006 standard for earthmoving equipment addresses the problem of blind spots around a vehicle and states that the operator must be able to “see around the machine to enable proper, effective and safe operation.” Camera monitor systems provide this to some extent, but in difficult environmental conditions a range of complementary devices are vital to give visual and udible operator warnings.

Brigade’s Backsense radar sensor systems (proximity sensors) are designed to detect people and objects in blind spots, significantly reducing accidents. They detect stationary and moving objects, providing the driver with in-cab visual and audible warnings – alerting the operator whose attention can not be focused on all danger areas. Backsense works effectively in harsh environments and in poor visibility including darkness, smoke and fog.