Design and development of a proximity warning system for improved safety on the manufacturing shop floor

Accident prevention on the manufacturing shop floor is essential. This paper aims to develop a proximity warning system capable of reducing accidents on the manufacturing shop floor, by notifying employers of any possible danger within the workplace. The system consists of an ultrasonic sensor, Arduino microcontroller, alarm system and an easy to understand user interface that can detect and alert workers within the danger zone. The system was developed using the Unified Modelling Language, python programming language and the Arduino software. Preliminary test conducted on volunteer participants revealed that the system is easy to use and provides real-time easy-to-understand audio and visual feedback to workers. The system is useful for reducing accidents on shop floors.