The City of Townsville Council has continued its innovation journey with smart pedestrian protection technology on some of its new trucks.
The Council has six new trucks fitted with the latest pedestrian protection technology to help reduce the chance of a person being struck with the lifting arm or bins while lifting or returning to the footpath.
A Council spokesperson said the technology is a first for Council, and will help in the safety aspects of managing more than 6.5 million kerbside bins and more than 300,000 tonnes of material per year.
“This innovative technology is an aid for our drivers, alerting the driver if a pedestrian is within the lifting zone,” the person said.
“We’ve noticed people have unintentionally moved into the bin lifting zone of the trucks, which can be dangerous.
“Our drivers can’t see every angle of their truck and sometimes people move into their blind spot.”
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The Spokesperson warned pedestrians that not all trucks are fitted with the technology yet there are simple tips to stay safe.
“Ensure your bins are out by 6am on your collection day and on the kerb and not the road,” they said.
“Keep half a metre clearance around your bin, including from other bins, cars, fences, letterboxes and trees.
“Keep a clear five metres away from (the) truck and lifting arm to protect yourself while the bin is being serviced.”
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