By Adam Wales, Key Account Manager, Axis Communications
Edge-based analytics are redefining safety and compliance, turning cameras into critical tools for operational improvement.
Factories, warehouses and materials-handling environments are under pressure. At the same time, duty of care obligations and workplace safety standards are rising. Meeting these dual marks requires operational data, meaning video intelligence has now emerged as one of the most important tools on the plant floor.
A camera provides a continuous stream of actionable data wherever it is needed most. With digitalisation now a day-to-day competitive requirement, network video’s transformative properties place it in the same category as robotics, automation and interconnected IT and OT systems.
A new data source for a new era
Materials-handling environments are complex by nature, which is where video analytics deliver immediate value. Cameras with edge-based intelligence can work directly on safety improvement tasks, like PPE non-compliance, forklift path deviation, or pedestrian access to dangerous areas.
Rather than relying solely on operator awareness or periodic manual checks, facilities can build automated, real-time safety enforcement into their processes using the same cameras they use for security.
Integrating cameras into the control layer
If an unsafe event is detected, the appropriate response can be triggered, be that a closed barrier, a red-light signal, an alert, or control over dynamic messaging and signage. Cameras can also join the supervisory role of other sensors within SCADA systems, interacting with PLCs to slow or disable potentially dangerous equipment if a hazard is detected.
Analytics can improve fixed workstations, monitoring areas like picking lines and packing stations to detect missed steps or incorrect material flow. Video can record the condition of palletised goods as they are unloaded and dispatched, creating a vital chain of evidence.
Digitalisation is an ongoing project. For OT not yet replaced, or equipment difficult to integrate with digital environments, video analytics can form a bridge. Analogue gauges and readouts can be converted into live, actionable data.
Compounding benefits from a video-driven future
There is little on the factory floor that would not benefit from visual analytics. Starting small with visible wins like PPE compliance is a great way to build the momentum required for larger digital transformation (DT) initiatives. A connected, intelligent infrastructure transforms risk management, boosts efficiency, and strengthens customer trust.
Safety analytics like smoke detection have direct financial benefits. And when analytics scale up, providing live feedback, historical data and an immutable audit trail, the efficiencies unlocked could be worth millions.
Whatever the need, it is vital to build the next generation of logistics technology on a platform ready to support it. The sharper the footage and edge processing, the better the data. Those who see cameras as intelligence platforms will create the smarter, safer factories of tomorrow.
Learn how Axis enables flawless logistics and enhanced business performance:
https://www.axis.com/en-gb/solutions/cargo-logistics
Adam Wales – Key Account Manager, End Customer, Axis Communications
Adam serves as the Axis Key Account Manager for the UK & Ireland, overseeing the company’s End Customer Digital Transformation initiatives in the area. With over two decades of experience in the electronic security sector, he has held diverse positions such as engineer, project manager, and enterprise account manager. Adam is driven by a keen interest in emerging technologies, adopting a solution-focused perspective and a professional, consultative method to address client needs.
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