Xwatch Safety Solutions, part of Hexagon, has launched the next generation version of the revolutionary MK1 system that has redefined machine and operator safety.
The comprehensive XWatch safety application was designed to enhance the operation of heavy machinery, particularly excavators, on construction sites.
The MK1 integrates multiple safety features within the cabs to protect operators, equipment, and surrounding infrastructure.
Essentially, Xwatch is an intelligent height, slew, and load monitoring system that integrates with heavy machinery to prevent dangerous incidents.
It is particularly useful for excavators, cranes, and other earthmoving equipment, offering real-time monitoring and control.
Now, building on that success, the MK2 enhances installation efficiency, global compatibility, and in-cab integration, setting a new standard in intelligent safety solutions.
Trusted by leading OEMs, contractors, and plant hire firms worldwide, Xwatch continues to push the boundaries of innovation to deliver safer, smarter, and more connected construction sites.
A new era in machine safety
As the evolution of MK1, Xwatch MK2 stays true to the Xwatch ethos: keep moving forward, never stand still.
Everything that made MK1 an industry leader remains, but MK2 refines and enhances every aspect – from installation simplicity to global compatibility.
Faster installation, smarter design
The installation has been significantly improved, with the time reduced by 30 per cent, making it faster and smoother to fit.
As Xwatch expands into new global markets, installers and operators unfamiliar with the system needed an approach that was simpler, more intuitive, and easier to adopt with confidence – and MK2 delivers.
The new system is even more adaptable and user-friendly, reducing downtime for plant hire companies and contractors.
It retains all the capabilities of MK1, including height and slew restriction, Rated Capacity Indicator (RCI), and the full suite of Xwatch safety features across the XW1, XW2, XW3, XW4, and XW5 models.
Every detail has been refined to make it easier to install, more efficient, and more versatile while maintaining Xwatch’s reputation for unmatched safety technology.
Precision control and smarter integration
New enhancements include revolutionary proportional motion control when driving electric over hydraulic valve blocks (patent pending), a significant breakthrough in precision and efficiency.
Graphics have been completely reworked, creating a more visually friendly and intuitive monitor interface.
Its multi-lingual capability ensures the system is global.
MK2 is telematics-ready for connected construction sites and is more compact, freeing up in-cab space.
Xwatch Systems and Projects Manager Gary Welch said that the company had worked closely with its component and sensor suppliers, combining functional safety expertise to develop the industry’s first PLd-rated (Performance Level d) movement limiter and rated capacity limiter safety system for the civils market.
“Taking a ground-up, system-level approach, the MK2 design features clearly defined interfaces, enhancing safety integrity, reducing installation time, and simplifying OEM integration through the new Xwatch Safety Gateway,” he said.
“This enables seamless sensor and data sharing while maintaining the high safety standards of the Xwatch MK2 system. The result is a robust, streamlined installation with fewer components, lower costs for end users, and greater reliability in the field.”
Seamless integration with leading OEMs
Due to Xwatch’s long-term OEM machine integration strategy, MK2 is built to be compatible with various OEM displays.
This minimises the need for additional hardware in the cab and ensures seamless integration for manufacturers adopting the system.
Xwatch Sales Director Dan Leaney said the MK2 system has been designed to meet the evolving demands of the heavy construction industry by enhancing safety, boosting operational efficiency and minimising disruption.
“MK2 takes everything that made MK1 a success and refines it even further,” he said.
“The Xwatch R&D team has worked hard to develop a system that’s easier to install, more intuitive to use, and ready for a global market. Installation is now faster, and MK2 is designed as an easy retrofit, making it simple to upgrade existing fleets.
“While many of our customers will be retrofitting MK2 to their machines, we’re also working with OEMs looking at factory-fitting Xwatch systems soon.
“Safety, efficiency, and integration remain at our core, and MK2 sets a new benchmark in intelligent safety solutions.”
“As the industry embraces digital transformation and sustainable practices, MK2 sets a new standard in intelligent safety solutions, ensuring our customers are equipped with future-ready technology that adapts to their changing needs.”
Leading the way
Xwatch Safety Solutions is a global leader in intelligent safety systems for construction machinery.
Built on engineering expertise and real-world industry experience, Xwatch systems are known for their ease of installation, intuitive operation, and seamless integration with machine control technology.
Their solutions are trusted by leading OEMs, plant hire specialists, contractors operating Hitachi, Komatsu, and JCB machinery, and major hire and infrastructure firms.
Whether installed on fleets for national projects or tailored for specialist applications, Xwatch systems support safe and efficient operations across construction, civil engineering, and plant hire.
With dedicated divisions in Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, and France and a growing network of dealerships worldwide, Xwatch ensures expert support wherever customers operate.
Following its acquisition by Hexagon, Xwatch is driving innovation in connected safety technology, helping plant hire firms, contractors, and infrastructure companies reduce risk, improve productivity, and enhance site safety.
In Australia, Xwatch Safety Australia has been formed under the safety banner of geospatial solutions leader C.R. Kennedy to distribute its products.
By combining Xwatch’s safety technologies with C.R. Kennedy’s positioning expertise, the partnership offers:
- Enhanced safety: Advanced systems to monitor and control machinery operations, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Improved efficiency: Seamless integration of safety features with existing equipment to streamline operations.
- Comprehensive support: Access to C.R. Kennedy’s national network for training, service, and technical assistance.
Xwatch Australia General Manager, Nick Leith, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing construction safety standards in Australia.
“This collaboration integrates Xwatch’s advanced safety systems with C.R. Kennedy’s expertise in geospatial technology, offering comprehensive solutions for the construction industries,” he said.
“We have several offices in Australia, with head office and main warehouse in Melbourne, and branch offices and warehouses in Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Perth, Hobart, Darwin and Sydney.
“Contact any of them for more information on the Xwatch products.”