Built at BIP: Improving Workshop Safety Through a Traffic Light Control System
At Busoga International Polytechnic, student projects are designed to solve real problems in real environments. Through hands-on learning, students are encouraged to observe daily operations, identify risks, and design practical solutions that improve safety and efficiency.
Emmanuel Kakaire, a Level 3 Electrical Engineering student under the Pearson BTEC programme, demonstrated this approach through a project developed during Unit 19: Performing Electrical Operations — a system focused on improving communication and safety inside workshop spaces.
⚡ Identifying a Safety and Communication Need
While working in the institute’s workshops, Emmanuel recognized a common challenge in technical environments: the lack of clear, immediate communication during maintenance and emergency situations.
In busy workshops, it is not always obvious whether a space is safe to enter, under maintenance, or potentially hazardous. Delays or confusion in communication can increase the risk of accidents — especially when multiple users share the same workspace.
Rather than relying on verbal warnings or temporary signs, Emmanuel saw the need for a clear, visual system that could communicate workshop status instantly.
🚦 Designing the Traffic Light Control System
To address this issue, Emmanuel designed and built a Traffic Light Control System tailored specifically for workshop use.
The system uses familiar traffic light indicators to communicate different workshop conditions:
A green light signals that maintenance work has been completed and the workshop is safe for normal operations.
A red light warns that the workshop is under critical or potentially hazardous maintenance and should not be entered.
An orange light indicates that the workshop is accessible, but users should proceed with caution as maintenance activities may still be ongoing.
By using universally recognized colors, the system allows users to understand workshop conditions instantly — without needing technical explanations.
🔔 Expanding Safety Through Integrated Alerts
Beyond visual communication, Emmanuel designed the system with future expansion in mind. The traffic light indicators can be integrated with emergency sirens, allowing both visual and audible alerts to be activated during hazardous situations.
Different light colors can also be linked to varying levels of risk, helping users quickly assess the severity of a situation and respond appropriately. This approach demonstrates how electrical control systems can go beyond functionality to actively support safety culture in technical environments.
🛠️ Skills Developed Through Practical Application
Throughout the project, Emmanuel applied a range of technical and professional skills. These included creativity in system design, integration of electrical components, and logical problem-solving.
Equally important was his growing understanding of how electrical systems operate in real-world settings — where reliability, clarity, and safety are critical. The project strengthened his ability to think beyond theory and design systems that serve people and processes effectively.
📘 Learning That Improves Real Environments
Emmanuel’s Traffic Light Control System reflects the core philosophy of Built at BIP. Students are not only taught electrical principles — they are encouraged to apply them in ways that improve safety, communication, and operational effectiveness.
At Busoga International Polytechnic, projects like this prepare students to enter industry with practical skills, responsible thinking, and the confidence to design solutions that matter. Student_Story_Emmanuel_Kakaire
🚀 Start Building Your Own Solution
Every practical innovation starts with observation and curiosity.
If you want to develop real skills, work on real challenges, and prepare for a hands-on career in engineering, apply to join Busoga International Polytechnic and start building your future today.
