A transport operator has become one of the first in the UK to install technology created by a Four Ashes firm, in what is said to be a “breakthrough moment” for the manufacturer.
Spillard Safety Systems has invested more than £250,000 into the development of its Human Detection System, which is an additional safety measure proven to prevent accidents, reduce injuries and save lives.
It has been taken up by Bretherton’s Gold Line Tours, based in Lancashire, and fitted to the company’s latest 53-seat Volvo tri-axle 990 coach.
Craig Spillard, Finance Director at Spillard Safety Systems, said: “This contract is a real breakthrough moment for us in the bus and coach sector, a sector that is traditionally difficult to introduce new technology in.
“Bretherton’s is really pleased with the difference it is making and we are hoping this will be the springboard for other companies to implement it on their fleets.”
Whilst other cameras are available for other providers to use, the system created by Spillard is fitted to the side, front and back of a vehicle and intelligently detects only the shape of a pedestrian, cyclist of motorcyclist within 20 metres – all in real time.
Once detected, an audio alert is delivered to the driver, as well as clearly visualising the distance by measurement and colour codes displayed on the cab monitor.
All the information is also fed into the SpillardLive platform, which provides real-time analysis and can be used to identify who is at fault for an accident or where training can be implemented to improve driver performance.
Spillard has already fitted 900 systems to vehicles used on HS2 and fitted over 5,000 cameras across plant and logistics.
Jon Paul, the third-generation family owner of Bretherton’s Gold Line Tours, said: “First and foremost, it has eliminated all blind spots which is massive for us – especially in crowded towns and cities.
“The fact it also only picks up the human shape is also a major benefit as our driver knows if he gets an alert he needs to act.
“There was a bit of resistance at first, like there is with all types of change. However, every driver who has used it would happily say they prefer to drive the Volvo 9900 over other ones in our fleet. That includes myself, as I still drive on some of the tours – I’ve been very impressed.”
He added: “There is no doubt that we will add the Human Detection System to any new vehicle that we purchase going forward.”
Pete Spillard, Managing Director of Spillard Safety Systems, said: “It is great to see Bretherton’s Gold Line Tours embrace our Human Detection System and, importantly, enjoy such a positive experience.
“Like with all new products, we are listening to and building in feedback to make it even better for existing and new users.”
