When an excavator is working on deep excavations in a steep verge or in a temporary box, its bucket may not be visible to the excavator operator.

This raised the risk that the bucket may hit objects, plant or even workers hidden from view.

Fitting an extra camera to the boom of wheeled excavators in use on the site has given operators a clear view of the bucket.

Victoria Yates, Costain Handover Manager and Innovation Champion, said: “There is now no need for the operator to lean forward and try to see down into the verge – the whole digging or lifting operation can be done in safety and comfort.

“The camera has a long lifecycle and, if well maintained, will last as long as the machine is in operation.

“Modern excavators already have rear cameras and a cab monitor, so all that’s needed is to mount the extra camera and feed it in to the monitor. And not only does the camera improve safety and reduce accidents but it can also speed up work too.”

“It’s such a simple, inexpensive thing to do on a modern excavator but it gives real benefits. I’m sure it would be useful at any site where there are deep excavations.”