Driver distraction fatigue monitoring

In the coming months, various Heavy Lift vehicles, including light vehicles (LVs), rigid trucks, and cranes, will be fitted with in vehicle driver fatigue and distraction management systems (DFDM).  

This is a proactive measure to enhance the safety of our personnel. Driving poses a significant risk within our company, and we continually seek systems and initiatives to mitigate this risk.  

Over the past six months, DFDM technology has alerted six vehicle operators to confirmed fatigue events while driving - events they were unaware of. These alerts potentially prevented six incidents. 

DFDM systems use artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor eye movements and provide real-time alerts if the driver falls asleep (micro-sleep) or becomes distracted from their intended direction of travel. 

To enhance safety, we recommend the following best practices for drivers: 

• Plan your journey in advance. 
• Ensure you are fit for work with adequate sleep before your shift. 
• Take a rest break every two hours. 
• Drive according to the road conditions. 
• Inform your supervisor if you experience fatigue before your trip. 

The rollout will initially include vehicles and cranes within our Fortescue scopes.   

For more details on how DFDM systems work and what to expect when operating a vehicle equipped with this technology, please refer to the below frequently asked questions (FAQs). Additionally, online Velpic training will be made available to all drivers. 

1. How do I know if the vehicle I am driving is equipped with a DFDM system? 

You will see a camera near your rear-view mirror or on the dashboard, pointing at the driver to monitor eye movement. Additionally, you'll find a sticker in the cab that alerts the driver to the technology.  

1. Does the camera record me while I am driving? 

The system includes a camera with AI technology that monitors eye movement while the vehicle is in operation. If the system detects a potential fatigue event or the driver being distracted from the direction of travel for more than 5 seconds, it will alert the driver and record an event. In the event of an alert, the system will upload up to 30 seconds of footage (15 seconds before and 15 seconds after the event) to the system portal for review.  

1. Does the system record audio as well as vision? 

No. The system does not record any audio.  

1. Who can view the event footage that is captured? 

Access to the portal where the footage is uploaded is limited to certain security roles. The footage will not be shared without individual consent.  

1. How does the system alert me if it detects fatigue or distraction? 

The system triggers an audible alert and vibrating driver seat for potential microsleep events (1.5 seconds of eyelid closure). Distraction events, such as mobile phone use, looking away from the direction of travel for 5 seconds or more, obscured facial visibility, or camera obstruction, also prompt an audible alert.  

1. If I am wearing sunglasses will this affect the system being able to detect eye movement? 

No. The AI technology works via an infrared camera so eye movement can be detected through sunglasses and also at night.  

1. What happens if I have a fatigue event? 

Where a fatigue event is recorded, you must pull over safely and contact your Supervisor to discuss your fitness for work.  

1. What do I do if I believe the system is faulty? 

If you believe the system is faulty, notify your Supervisor.