“We started trialling different types of equipment over a year ago and took the decision to fit Cyclear and 360-degree CCTV hard disk recording equipment to our waste and recycling collection vehicles,” says councillor Lesley Hinds, the council’s transport and environment convener.
Made by British company Innovative Safety Systems (ISS), Cyclear detects passing cyclists and audibly alerts the driver when the left indicator is activated. An audible speaker also sounds to let cyclists and other road users know when the vehicle is turning left as a second tier warning.
This is coupled with an intelligent sensor arrangement that detects cyclists and alerts drivers if they are being undertaken and the indicator is not in operation.
The RX3 hard disk recording system has can accommodate up to 16 cameras and two audio inputs. Key features include speed, XYZ acceleration and GPS positioning.
Hinds adds: “This equipment has been well received by drivers and crews and is performing well. Not only does the camera recording system assist with safety, it helps us to investigate any claims made against the council and prevent or detect crime.”
“We now hope to fit the same systems to all HGVs across the Council over the coming years.”
Pictured are (L-R) Mark Symonds, road safety officer, Edinburgh City Council with Keith Martin, operations manager, Edinburgh City Council.