Full Breakdown
New Laser Technology Aims to Enhance Safety in Public Spaces
3/9/2026, 11:37:05 PM
Overview of the Technology Development
A new application of laser technology is being developed by Createc, a technology company based in Cockermouth, Cumbria, to enhance safety in public spaces, particularly for women. The system aims to identify potentially threatening behaviors, such as loitering or tailing, by monitoring crowd movements and alerting security teams when unusual patterns are detected. This initiative is spearheaded by Rosie Richardson, a product and strategy director at Createc, who emphasizes the need for solutions that shift the responsibility of safety from individuals to public authorities and security personnel.
How the System Works
The technology utilizes laser beams and advanced algorithms to track individuals in crowded areas, displaying them as anonymous dots on a screen. It identifies abnormal behaviors that may indicate a threat, such as someone sitting too close to another person on a deserted platform. When such behaviors are detected, security teams can either direct CCTV cameras for closer observation or send personnel to assess the situation. Richardson notes that this system could have potentially prevented her own experience of sexual assault at a young age, highlighting the importance of recognizing patterns of predatory behavior in public spaces.
Societal Context and Criticism
Dr. Emma Cunningham, a criminology expert at the University of East London, acknowledges the limitations of technology in ensuring women's safety. She argues that while innovations like the laser monitoring system can contribute to public safety, they cannot replace the need for societal change regarding attitudes towards violence against women. Cunningham points out that one in four women experiences domestic abuse in their lifetime, and there is a pressing need to shift from victim-blaming to perpetrator-blaming. She advocates for educational initiatives to challenge misogyny and sexism in everyday life, emphasizing that technology should complement, not replace, human interaction and support.
Privacy Considerations
The laser technology developed by Createc is designed to respect public privacy by avoiding constant surveillance. Instead of using cameras, it monitors crowds anonymously, activating CCTV only when a potential threat is identified. This approach aims to balance safety with the public's desire for privacy, addressing concerns that have been raised about the implications of continuous monitoring.
Future Directions
The technology has undergone simulated trials and is set to be tested in real-life scenarios soon. Richardson expresses her commitment to making a difference in public safety, motivated by personal experiences of violence. She believes that if the technology can prevent even a single incident of violence, it will fulfill its purpose. However, both Richardson and Cunningham agree that further research is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of such measures in reducing violence in public spaces.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think we have to develop solutions that put the responsibility back into other places like public authorities, owners of spaces, police forces,” — Rosie Richardson, Product and Strategy Director, Createc
- “For those women and girls who despite these concerns and plans are attacked, then attitudes need to change from victim-blaming to perpetrator-blaming,” — Dr. Emma Cunningham, Criminology Expert, University of East London
