Illuminated signs to prevent forklift and pedestrian collisions

Projection of illuminated signs on the ground in co-activity zones: an effective solution for preventing collisions between forklift operators and pedestrians

Safety in industrial environments is a top priority for HSE (Health, Safety and Environment) managers. Among the highest risks is co-activity between pedestrians and forklift operators, particularly in warehouses and production areas where forklift traffic is frequent. In this context, the use of light projections on the floor is an innovative and particularly effective solution for preventing accidents. That's why this technology is proving to be a major asset in enhancing safety on industrial sites.

1. Instant, clear visual signalling

Illuminated signs projected onto the ground provide visible, intuitive and immediate signage, instantly attracting the attention of pedestrians and forklift drivers. Unlike fixed signs or traditional ground stripes, light projections adapt to the needs of the environment:

• Increased visibility: Whether hazard symbols, zone separation lines or directional arrows, these projections are highly visible and attractive, even in low-light conditions.
• Dynamic alerts: Light projections can be combined with forklift movement to alert pedestrians in real time when a machine is approaching. This mobile signage creates a heightened focus on areas of immediate risk.

2. Collision reduction in high-risk areas

Co-activity zones, where pedestrians and forklift trucks cross paths, are particularly prone to accidents. By projecting illuminated signs directly onto the ground, companies can clearly define safety zones, such as :

• Safe traffic lanes:
• The projection of colored lines delimiting the paths reserved for pedestrians and forklift trucks helps to avoid uncontrolled crossings and to organize traffic flow in complete safety.
• Reinforced points of vigilance: At intersections, where visibility is reduced, precautionary light symbols, such as warning triangles or hazard pictograms, can be projected to remind drivers and pedestrians to slow down and check their surroundings before engaging.

3. Flexibility and adaptability to industrial environments

Illuminated signage projection offers great flexibility, easily adapting to the specific needs of a site:

• Modular according to zones: Light projections can be quickly repositioned if work area configurations change (warehouse reorganization, new traffic lanes).
• Adaptable to different environments: Whether indoors or outdoors, panel brightness can be adjusted to remain perfectly visible, even in brightly lit environments or those exposed to natural light.

4. Reduced human risk

One of the main causes of accidents in industrial environments is worker inattention or misinterpretation of traditional traffic signs. Illuminated signs projected onto the floor make it possible to :

• Grab attention quickly:
• Dynamic light projections immediately catch the eye, considerably reducing the risk of inattention on the part of pedestrians or forklift drivers.
• Reinforce vigilance: The visualization of a floor-mounted light sign, particularly in high-risk areas, acts as a constant reminder of safety instructions. This encourages workers to stay alert and respect traffic limits.

5. An ideal complement to other safety devices

Illuminated signage can be perfectly integrated with other safety systems to provide enhanced protection:

• Coupled audible alarm: Combined with proximity sensors, the projection can be accompanied by an audible alarm which is triggered as soon as a forklift enters a pedestrian zone, providing a double alert.
• Awareness and training: These visual devices can be integrated into safety training courses for workers, who will learn to quickly interpret the projected signals and act accordingly.

6. A profitable investment in safety

Last but not least, illuminated signage represents a smart, cost-effective investment for companies wishing to improve safety on their sites:

• Easy to install: LED floodlights are quick and easy to install, requiring little disruption to day-to-day operations.
• Minimal maintenance: Unlike painted strips or fixed signs, these devices require little maintenance, as their lifespan is extended by LED technology.
• Reduced accidents and associated costs: By reducing the number of accidents, particularly those linked to collisions between pedestrians and forklifts, companies cut the costs associated with production stoppages, repairs and, above all, worker injuries.

Conclusion

The projection of illuminated signs on the ground is an effective, modern solution for preventing collisions between forklift drivers and pedestrians in co-activity zones. By providing clear, dynamic and adaptable visual signage, it helps to significantly reduce accidents and enhance safety on industrial sites. For HSE managers, the adoption of this technology represents a tangible step towards safer, more protected working environments.