Custom Camera Safety Systems Built for the Realities of Forestry
Forestry is one of the toughest environments for machinery and operators. Steep terrain, unpredictable hazards and remote locations mean that when something goes wrong, the consequences can be serious. Off-the-shelf safety systems are rarely built to handle that level of risk.
That is exactly the challenge a forestry operator brought to Fleetware. They needed a smarter way to monitor machine operation, reduce human error and stay connected to their fleet, even when working kilometres beyond mobile coverage.
A standard dash camera setup was never going to meet those expectations. So we engineered something better.
The Risk Environment: Harsh, Isolated and High Stakes
Forestry machinery often operates:
- Far from reliable communication networks
- In conditions with limited visibility
- With heavy attachments and high-risk moving parts
- For long operating hours with minimal oversight
Our customer was particularly concerned about:
- Limited visibility inside and around the machine
- Reduced supervision in remote work sites
- Operators unintentionally leaving machines running
These factors create serious safety vulnerabilities. They needed technology that addressed all three at once.
The Solution: A Fully Integrated Multi-Camera Safety System
We designed a custom installation that significantly strengthens situational awareness. The system includes:
- A front-view camera to monitor hazards on approach
- A rear camera for safer manoeuvring in obstructed areas
- A cabin control camera to ensure equipment is operated correctly
- A driver view camera to support safe behaviour and training
Instead of relying solely on cloud connectivity, the system is equipped with 2TB of local storage, ensuring critical footage is always retained and available for review.
This delivers complete operational visibility and greater confidence for both managers and operators.
Remote Visibility, Even Without Mobile Signal
Most commercial camera systems depend on mobile connectivity. In forestry, that is rarely reliable.
To overcome this, we integrated satellite communication into the system. This enables event alerts and notifications – and access to live footage where required – to be delivered instantly, regardless of how remote the worksite may be.
Whether in coverage or deep in the forest, the business remains connected.
Smart Behaviour Detection to Prevent Incidents
One of the identified risks was machines being left running when operators left the cabin.
We customised system wiring to detect door-open events while the machine is operating. This immediately notifies the business so action can be taken before an incident occurs.
A simple, targeted improvement with significant safety benefits.
Why a Custom Approach Matters
Forestry environments push machinery to extremes. Safety systems must be designed for those conditions. Fleetware’s focus is on:
- Investigating real operational risk
- Engineering solutions aligned to industry needs
- Ensuring technology performance in the field
- Delivering measurable safety improvements
For this customer, the result is a safer, more compliant and more efficient operation.
The Right Technology, Built for Your Conditions
When machinery operates remotely, safety systems need to exceed basic requirements. Fleetware builds solutions around the specific needs of each sector, rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
If your fleet operates in challenging conditions and demands stronger oversight, we can help improve safety and protect operators.
Get in touch with the Fleetware team to discuss a custom camera solution tailored to your operation.
