Timber door specialist JELD-WEN has introduced cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) at its flagship manufacturing site as it continues to lead the way in innovation.
Designed to protect the health and safety of employees, the manufacturer’s latest enhancements include implementing AI-powered camera systems on its on-site vehicles.
The new systems automatically detect the presence of pedestrians and issue real-time alerts to both the driver and the pedestrian. If no action is taken in response to the warning, the vehicle is automatically powered down to prevent a potential collision. Additional camera and alarm systems in the site’s yard provide further protection, alerting drivers to nearby movement.
The manufacturer’s commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) is furthered by new technology inside the factory, too.
Its suite of production machines have also been upgraded with safety shields. These devices detect if a worker's arm is dangerously close to a cutting blade, prompting the immediate deployment of a protective guard and halting the machine’s operation.
As well as improving safety, by enhancing rather than replacing its existing equipment, JELD-WEN has been able to extend the lifespan of its machinery. This has minimised the manufacturer’s resource and energy consumption, aiding it in meeting its sustainability targets.
Hamish White, Head of Operations at JELD-WEN, said: “These upgrades are about ensuring that our colleagues are protected by the best technology available. Safety is absolutely central to how we operate, and the addition of AI is a logical step in enhancing that.
“As well as protecting our colleagues onsite, by choosing to enhance – rather than replace – our machinery, the upgrades form part of our continuous improvement journey and aid us in reaching the responsibilities we’ve committed to as part of our ESG framework.”
The adoption of AI safety systems forms part of a wider ESG programme at JELD-WEN, which includes recent initiatives such as switching to a fully electric forklift fleet, sourcing all electricity from renewable sources, and upgrading to energy-efficient lighting and compressor systems, all of which are contributing to the company’s drive towards achieving net zero emissions.
