UK telecoms provider BT is to underpin the delivery of flood response mechanisms with an ‘internet of things’ (IoT) platform for the Environment Agency in England.
BT has been contract by infrastructure and support services company Stobart Group, as part of its four-year project with the Environment Agency, entitled Delivering Resilience Together.
The telecoms firm will deploy its IoT platform, plus a range of mobile tracking devices, for Stobart to better manage the Environment Agency’s 1,500 stillages, heavy-duty transport containers for flood defence equipment such as barriers and pumps.
Stobart said BT’s weatherproof tracking devices, attached to the stillages and managed via BT’s IoT platform, will provide better visibility of flood defence equipment, enabling it to respond quickly to flooding events as they occur.
The BT platform will offer a live view of the location of assets. Data transmissions will be managed on BT’s 4G network, branded EE.
Gerry McQuade, chief executive at BT’s enterprise division, said: “Entire communities in flood affected parts of the country will be better protected. Our technology can help [with] logistics, and supports companies to drive operational efficiencies… through the improved tracking and visibility of their physical assets.”
BT has created a centre of excellence within its enterprise unit to bring innovative IoT solutions to market, covering connectivity and platforms, with focus on the smart cities, retail and logistics sectors.
Warwick Brady, chief executive at Stobart, said investment in the latest technology is a key part of his company’s growth strategy.
“This… will assist in managing delivery and inventory location. The integrated system provides delivery metrics in real time, allowing [us] to closely monitor the vital flood prevention equipment and respond quickly and efficiently,” he said.
The Environment Agency has invested in various new equipment to assist its flood response capability, including in vehicles, 40km of temporary flood barriers and 250 high volume pumps. It has 6,500 trained staff to respond to flooding, including 500 flood support officers.
