Cycle safety sensors fitted to new Edinburgh refuse trucks

A new fleet of refuse collection trucks designed to reduce the risk of collisions with cyclists are being rolled out by the City of Edinburgh Council.

After a trial on eight vehicles, the council has introduced another 17 new trucks using the Cyclear system, provided by Innovative Safety Systems. 

The Cyclear equipment features an illuminated sign that lights up to alert anyone travelling towards the rear of the lorry when it is turning left. There is also a speaker announcing the manoeuvre.

Sensors on the side of the vehicle detect when a cyclist travels alongside it, alerting the cyclist with an audible message, and sounding a warning buzzer to the driver.?

Five cameras are installed on each truck, with screens in the cab giving drivers views of their surroundings. The new trucks are equipped with Euro 6 specification engines emitting low emissions.

Transport and Environment Convener Lesley Hinds says: “The council is determined to make Edinburgh’s roads as safe as possible for all road users, including cyclists. A significant rise in cycling has occurred in the city, while the rate of collisions involving cyclists continues to fall. 

?“Edinburgh is bucking the trend with more people cycling, walking or using public transport to get to work than anywhere else in Scotland and these newly equipped vehicles are an important step in increasing safety and raising such awareness.”

Last year, in collaboration with Cycling Scotland, the council introduced Driver Awareness training for drivers of heavy goods vehicles, aiming to make them more aware of the dangers facing cyclists on the roads.