AI project aims to boost tram crossing safety

The partnership between the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB) and Starling Technologies will see the installation of advanced monitoring cameras at key locations on several tram networks.

They will be used to observe and analyse the behaviour of pedestrians at Non-Motorised User (NMU) crossings to provide critical insights into how they are used, identifying potential risks and opportunities for safety improvements.

By utilising cutting-edge video monitoring technology, the collected data will inform the sector on best practices for managing NMU safety in the future.

Craig O’Brien, Head of Engineering Safety and Innovation at LRSSB, explained: “This project is a significant step forward in our mission to improve safety across the light rail sector.

 “Understanding user behaviour at NMU crossings will help us develop data-driven strategies to reduce risks and ensure safe interactions between light rail vehicles and pedestrians.”

Starling Technologies, a leader in smart surveillance solutions, is providing the state-of-the-art camera systems and analytical tools necessary to gain meaningful insights from the footage.

At this stage, the locations of the cameras are not being disclosed as this would risk influencing the behaviour of people using the crossings. However, there will have no additional impact on privacy as the crossings are routinely monitored for safety purposes.

Andrew Caleya Chetty, Founder and CEO of Starling Technologies, commented:

“We are really excited to be helping these next-generation thoughts and actions, to help keep people safer around tramways. Working with LRSSB and tram operators, we are convinced we will identify areas of improvement.”

Craig O’Brien added: “The findings from this project will contribute to a broader discussion on NMU safety, potentially shaping future policies and technologies to enhance light rail operations nationwide.”