TFP Bureau Korba; Nov 28, 2023: In a groundbreaking move, Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), India’s premier aluminum producer and a unit of Vedanta Aluminium, has embraced cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to enhance safety within its operations. The introduction of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) is set to revolutionize road safety in the dynamic driving conditions prevalent within the plant.
With a fleet ranging from 2-wheelers to heavy-duty vehicles transporting molten aluminum and raw materials, BALCO is placing a paramount emphasis on road safety. The integration of digital technologies like ADAS and DMS marks a pivotal milestone, fortifying safety measures and mitigating potential human errors amidst the constant movement of vehicles.
ADAS assists drivers by detecting blind spots and issuing real-time alerts when vehicles change lanes. Complementing this, the DMS monitors driver behavior and attentiveness using infrared inward-facing cameras and advanced AI and Machine Learning tools. It analyzes facial position, eye movements, and head positioning, promptly alerting to any signs of drowsiness, fatigue, phone usage, or other distractions.
Highlighting the importance of road safety, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, CEO and Director of BALCO, stated, “BALCO is committed to fostering a secure working environment in line with our ‘Zero Harm’ philosophy. Our objective is to establish a safe environment for all stakeholders, extending across every facet of our facility. This initiative aligns with our overarching priorities of ensuring workforce safety and leveraging digitalization and innovation for operational excellence.”
BALCO has implemented various cutting-edge technologies to build a robust safety culture, including the T-Pulse Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) Monitoring System, Augmented and Virtual Reality Training Centre, Video Analytics, Sustainability Mobile App, E-learning courses, and Digitalization of Workforce Connectivity.
The company’s safety initiatives also include a Centralized Security Operations Centre (CSOC) for better decision-making, real-time data monitoring with digital dashboards, and projects like the Hot Spot Detection System at the coal yard using thermal inspection. LED Logo projectors illuminate safety signs on floors, ensuring clear display in low-light conditions, especially in areas with dust accumulation and high vehicular traffic.
In recognition of its safety-first approach, BALCO received the Global Road Safety Award 2023 in the “Gold Category” from The Energy and Environment Foundatio. This accolade underscores BALCO’s commitment to safety excellence, reinforced by regular safety training sessions and awareness programs. The company also achieved ‘Platinum Winner’ status at the 5th CII National Safety Practices Competition for its ‘Suraksha Sankalp Kutumbh’ project on safety digitalization.
