Innovation That Matters

Smart station surveillance cameras stop drunks falling onto the tracks

Work & Lifestyle

JR West has installed 46 smart surveillance cameras at Kyobashi Station, which will help staff keep an eye on drunken passengers.

In 2013, 221 people were hit by trains in Japan, and over half of these accidents were a result of drunkenness. To help prevent such occurrences, the railway company JR West has installed 46 smart surveillance cameras at Kyobashi Station, near Osaka’s entertainment districts, which will help staff keep an eye on drunken passengers.

The cameras are specifically designed to recognize potential drunken behavior, such as unstable walking or sitting on a bench for a suspiciously lengthy time. Anytime a camera spots drunken activity, the system automatically informs the station attendant, who can then investigate further. If the system is successful, it is likely to be installed in other stations too. Could a similar setup work in other public spaces?

Website: www.westjr.co.jp

Contact: www.westjr.co.jp