Video surveillance systems to enhance occupational safety: A case study

In an earlier study, the authors proposed a conceptual framework for the design and use of a visual recording system for safety reasons in the workplace. Based on that framework, a video surveillance system has been put in place and experimented in an Italian heat treatment company. This paper provides a description of the experimentation and an analysis of its main outcomes. The aim is to gain some insights into the benefits as well as the drawbacks connected to the use of video technology as a means to improve safety management in manufacturing companies. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of video technology at supporting the identification of the risks connected to unsafe behaviours of the workforce and critical conditions of the working environment. Video surveillance provides several benefits as opposed to in person observations, such as: non-biased and accurate accident data; in-depth analysis; observations possible not in real-time; observer not exposed to risks; undisturbed work activity; possibility of longer observation periods. The recorded videos can facilitate the identification of safe practices and the best risk management approaches as well as be used to improve training sessions. Further investigation is required to assess the effectiveness of the system in the long term.