Staff MAY 2016 | ISSUE 222 For information, please call: 0845 543 5953 or visit: www.mcginley.co.uk WORKING ON THE RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE? LOOKING FOR A NEW SPONSOR? With a national presence and dedicated Training, Safety and Quality Control divisions, McGinley Support Services is the answer. Proud Sponsors of Watford Ladies FC RAILSTAFF.UK PLUS NEWS FEATURES HEALTH AND SAFETY EVENTS TRAINING GEAR + TECH CAREERS INTERVIEW RICHARD GEORGE, GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR, SNC-LAVALIN 42 + CYBER SECURITY 46 Interfleet to SNC-Lavalin From
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Staff
MAY 2016 | ISSUE 222
For information, please call: 0845 543 5953 or visit: www.mcginley.co.uk
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An onboard catering host has managed to lose 25 stone and become slimmer of the year.
Oliver Bales, 24, tipped the
scales at 39 stone when he
decided to seek help through a
scheme run by Slimming World
magazine.
Oliver who has a degree
in international business from
Portsmouth University, suffered
a growing obesity problem as a
student. Teased by other students
and unable to attend some
lectures because he could not sit
in the chairs, Oliver decided to
lose weight after being inspired
by a friend’s weight loss on social
media.
Oliver has almost halved his
waist size - down from 64 inches
to 34. Even his feet are two shoe
sizes smaller. A diet and exercise
plan helped. As the weight came
off he needed new clothes.
Oliver joined the rail industry last
February in Portsmouth and works
for Rail Gourmet on SWT services.
‘Being overweight has affected
my entire life – until now. I finally
know what it’s like not to feel like
an outcast, to be able to walk
down the street without people
laughing, pointing or calling you
names, to not take up two seats
on a train, to not be in constant
pain,’ said Oliver. He thanked the
magazine and friends who had
given him support. ‘My only regret
is that I didn’t do this sooner. I
hope my story will inspire other
people to know that it’s never
too late to get support and even
if they don’t know it, there is help
just around the corner.’
Over 11,000 members of Network Rail’s orange army turned out over the long weekend, 30 April - 2 May, pushing ahead with Britain’s £40 billion Railway Upgrade Plan.
In London, Crossrail
electrification work went ahead
on the Great Eastern Main
Line around Gidea Park and
also at Paddington. East Kent
resignalling progressed between
Faversham and Sheerness.
There was also major resignalling
work on the northern part of
the Midland Main Line around
Sheffield. Work on the West
Coast Main Line focused on
Stafford and the line north of
Lancaster.
May day magic for Orange Army
Network Rail has beefed up its property business by creating a new company: Network Rail Property.
The dramatic growth in rail passenger numbers in the UK is presenting a fundamental challenge to the industry’s safety performance, says Network Rail safety director Graham Hopkins.
Speaking at the Rail Safety Summit on 5
May, Hopkins said that the need to operate
more services was shortening the window
for Network Rail to carry out maintenance
and renewal works to a point that there was
a risk projects could be ‘rushed’.
Graham was appointed group director
for safety, technical and engineering,
in June 2015. Previously, he had been
executive vice-president of engineering
and technology, aerospace component
engineering at Rolls-Royce. He said, ‘That
is the environment that we’re living in… that
happens everywhere on the network and it’s
only going to get worse.’
Currently, 1.7 billion passenger journeys
are made on the British rail network every
year - 34 per cent more than five years ago.
That number is expected to double over the
next seven years. ‘How do we live with that
increase safely?’ he challenged.
‘Although there have been no workforce
fatalities on the railway so far this year, the
number of people being injured on the railway
remains a concern. On average, every month
50 employees are involved in an incident which
prevents them from being able to return to
work the following day,’ said Graham.
Graham was, however, upbeat about
Network Rail’s performance as a whole,
confirming that the organisation was meeting
its safety objectives and was on course to
achieve its CP5 target on level crossing
closures. Network Rail is currently in the
process of closing its 1,000th crossing. ‘We
can never give up on achieving that zero
number,’ he added.
The Rail Safety Summit was held at the
Royal College of Physicians, London, on
5 May. The morning session focussed on
fatigue. Speakers included Mark Young from
RAIB, Jill Collis from Transport for London
(TfL) and Johnny Schute OBE, a former chief
environmental and safety officer in the British
Army, from ORR.
Mick Whelan, general secretary of ASLEF,
and Atkins’ David Nancarrow spoke about
how their respective organisations are
addressing health and wellbeing issues
within the industry. Finally the afternoon
sessions, which included speakers from
AECOM, Colas Rail, TRL, ABC Electrification,
HS2 and Bridgeway, dealt with the topics
of road risk and highlighted the innovative
approaches that are being used to address
workforce safety issues.
Look out for Colin Wheeler’s full
conference review in next month’s issue.
Essential focus on safety
Voice-over artist Phil Sayer, 62, known to millions of passengers as the ‘we’re sorry to announce…’ or ‘mind the gap’ man, has died after a sudden illness.
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CPC Systems, which delivers technical advice to London Underground, DLR and Network Rail, has appointed Malcolm Dobell as non-executive director.
Malcolm brings more than 45
years of rail industry expertise
to the team. He was formerly
head of train systems for London
Underground. As part of the
CPC Systems team, Malcolm will
provide strategic support as the
team moves towards becoming
the ‘go-to’ technical consultancy
provider for capacity and
performance solutions.
Malcolm Dobell is a
chartered engineer, a Fellow
of the Institution of Mechanical
Engineers and writes for Rail
Engineer magazine. He is a
past chairman of the Institution’s
Railway Division. In his spare
time, he is the chairman of
the governing body of a large
secondary academy in Milton
Keynes.
Says Joe Little, CPC systems
director, ‘Malcolm’s vast industry
knowledge and experience will
further add to the extensive rail
systems engineering capability of
CPC Systems. This will allow us to
continue to assist our customers
in discovering efficient solutions
to unlock their capacity and
performance potential.’
A former Heathrow Express driver, Tara Deller-Hoy, has joined South West Trains as head of drivers - looking after almost 2,000 drivers across 13 depots.
She joins from London
Overground (LOROL) where
she was also head of drivers,
covering 500 drivers over five
depots.
Tara has had a long career in
driver management, starting out
as a train driver with Heathrow
Express in 1997. After 12 years
with Heathrow Express, she
joined LOROL as a training
manager. Quick promotion to
train crew management followed
and she rose to the driver
manager position in 2012.
‘With the new fleet of Class
707 trains coming in during 2017,
it’s important that our team of
drivers are ready and prepared,’
says Tara. ‘I started out as a
driver in 1997 and have also got
experience of developing the
designs for a new fleet of trains
at Crossrail, which I think will be a
great help as we prepare for the
future.’
Tara lives in Chesham with
her husband. In her spare time,
she enjoys swimming and has
recently joined a triathlon club.
High role for triathlete Tara Deller-Hoy
Dobell prize for CPCDavid Brookes has joined Elite KL as business development manager - expanding the Tamworth-based company’s growing rail portfolio.
Historically the company has
an automotive background,
specialising in heating, ventilation
and air conditioning systems.
Now bringing transferable
technologies to the rail industry,
Elite KL Ltd supplies systems
for refurbishment programmes -
including the much appreciated
driver’s cab air-con.
Brookes joins from Dellner -
the Swedish train couplings firm
- where he was responsible for
repairs, overhauls and spares
for rolling stock in Britain and
Ireland. The six-year stint was
preceded by two years at Axiom
Rail - the rail vehicle maintenance
company which is now part of DB
Schenker. He has also worked
for Sabre Rail.
David Brookes studied at
the Noel Baker School - motto:
‘Excellence in all things’ - in
Alvaston, Derby. He joined
the railway from school as an
apprentice at BREL in Derby
and spent 11 years at Litchurch
Lane - now part of Bombardier
Transportation.
Brookes has a degree from
Derby University. In his spare
time, David, a keen soccer player,
is chairman and manager of
Mickleover 95 Football Club -
which provides opportunities for
boys and girls aged five to 18 to
learn how to play the Beautiful
Game and to compete against
other local teams.
Elite move for Brookes
FirstGroup has appointed Jim Harbidge as group head of environment.
Mark Wild, former leader of the public transport network in the Australian state of Victoria, has been named as the new managing director of London Underground.
Mark Wild will join Transport
for London in June, leaving his
current role as special adviser to
the government of Victoria. Until
recently, he was chief executive
of Public Transport Victoria, the
integrated transport authority
based in Melbourne serving a
population of six million.
An MBA graduate of the
University of Leeds, he initially
read for a degree in electrical
and electronic engineering
at Newcastle Polytechnic. His
near 30-year career in transport
has included running tram
networks, suburban railways and
bus services. He also formerly
worked on a number of major
projects in London, including the
introduction of modern signalling
on the Jubilee and Victoria lines.
Says London’s Transport
Commissioner, Mike Brown MVO,
‘We look forward to welcoming
Mark Wild, who will help us
continue the vital modernisation
of London’s transport network.
With our city’s population rising
sharply, we need to continue
to drive forward change
and deliver new and better
services so that we can support
London’s new homes, jobs
and economic growth. I would
also like to pay tribute to Nick
Brown, our departing interim
managing director. He has made
a remarkable contribution to
London Underground at a crucial
time.’
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Colin Dobson is Abellio Greater Anglia’s new engineering director, heading a team of 500.
He joins the railway after a
successful career in aviation
working for British Airways and
as a consultant for Virgin Atlantic,
BAE systems and the Canadian
Helicopter Corporation.
Colin is married, lives in
Bedfordshire and enjoys walking,
travel and music. He is a member
of the Royal Aeronautical Society
and the Institute of Directors.
John MacArthur has been appointed to Story Contracting’s board of directors.
John joined the company in
February last year from Balfour
Beatty with over 26 years’
experience in civil engineering.
As rail director for Scotland,
John will set, lead and manage
the strategic direction and
delivery of a safe, profitable
and sustainable rail business
in Scotland. John will also be
accountable for creating and
embedding a culture of high
performance, client satisfaction
and continual improvement.
Announcing the appointment,
Story said, ‘This is a great
opportunity and well deserved
recognition based on the
performance and growth of
Story Contracting’s Scotland Rail
business over the last 12 months.’
Story Contracting is a
family-owned, award winning,
infrastructure company based
in the North of England. The
business provides construction,
plant and rail solutions.
Directorship for John MacArthur
Call of the wild
Aviation man for Greater Anglia
Sally Buttifant and Michael Willmot have been appointed to the board of ACoRP. They replace Chris Austin OBE and Paul Salveson MBE, who both laid the foundations of the community rail movement as we now know it.
Network Rail engineers have begun work on a bridge that will replace the level crossing at Ufton Nervet, Berkshire.
The bridge will completely
separate road and rail traffic at
the site, which has experienced
several incidents of deliberate
misuse. These followed a
collision between a train and a
car on the crossing in 2004 in
which seven people died and 71
people were injured.
A ceremony to mark the
start of work was attended by
members of the Ufton Nervet
support group - set up after the
2004 collision. They were joined
by members of the construction
team and Mark Langman,
Network Rail’s managing director
for the Western route.
‘This is an emotional day
for everyone affected by the
2004 collision and marks an
important step towards our
goal of improving the safety
of passengers and the public
at Ufton Nervet,’ said Mark.
‘By building this bridge and
replacing the level crossing, we
can significantly reduce the risk
of a tragedy like this happening
again, helping to ensure that
everyone gets home safe, every
day.’
Construction of the new bridge
is likely to be completed by the
end of the year.
Engineers are removing the track through Glasgow Queen Street tunnel as work on the £60 million electrification project gathers pace.
Since the high level station
closed to trains on 20 March,
engineers have been working
around-the-clock to renew track
and key junctions to the north of
the tunnel near Cowlairs and to
begin lengthening and rebuilding
platforms and track layouts within
the station.
Trackbed will be lowered to
allow the installation of equipment
to carry the overhead conductor
bar system to electrify the railway
through the tunnel ahead of the
introduction of faster, greener
trains from December 2016 as
part of the Edinburgh Glasgow
Improvement Programme (EGIP).
Summer tunnel job gathers pace
Bridgework starts at Ufton Nervet
To find out more about our work at Blackfriars visit railsignage.com
Olympic champion Audley Harrison has helped launch a new plan in support of the Samaritans ‘We Listen’ campaign.
The rail industry has offered
to feature Samaritans contact
details on the back of train
tickets for free. The reverse
side of paper tickets will feature
the Samaritans logo and free-
phone number, 116 123, plus the
campaign strapline line, ‘We don’t
just hear you, we listen.’
The aim is to encourage
anyone going through a tough
time to contact Samaritans.
Former Olympic champion
boxer Audley Harrison MBE,
who is fronting the campaign,
was given the very first ticket - a
giant-sized version to match his
heavyweight status.
Says Audley, ‘It’s a strength,
not a weakness, to reach out
for help. Let’s all get behind
this campaign and let people
know that they don’t have to go
it alone with their problems. If
you don’t want to talk to friends
or family, or feel you have
nowhere to turn, Samaritans will
listen. They’re free to call and
it won’t even show up on your
phone bill.’
The sports star was presented
with the oversized ticket at his
old boxing club, the historic
Repton Boys Club in Bethnal
Green in London’s East End. Paul
Plummer, chief executive of the
Rail Delivery Group, said, ‘Millions
of rail tickets are sold every day,
so we’re only too pleased to
support Samaritans’ We Listen
campaign and help make sure
people know where to turn when
they’re finding life tough.”
You can call Samaritans for
free any time from any phone on
116 123.
ANDY RIDOUTMANAGING DIRECTOR,
ADVANCE-TRS
Three senior staff from rail recruitment consultancy Advance Training & Recruitment Services (advance-TRS), successfully completed the London Marathon last month, together raising just under £10,000 for children’s charities Railway Children and Action for Children.
Operations director Paul Merton, managing director Andy Ridout and signalling division manager Sam Jennings each completed the 26.2-mile run following months of intensive training and preparation.
The guys joined around 38,000 other runners including Dame Kelly Holmes MBE and Top Gear’s Chris Evans at the marathon’s starting point on 24 April. The famous route sends runners up to Woolwich and along the River Thames before circling the Isle of Dogs, looping back towards Westminster where the final stretch culminates at St James Park.
Andy Ridout ran in aid of Railway Children, the international children’s charity that aims to change the lives of children living on the streets of the UK, India and East Africa. Raising more than £6,400, Andy adds to an already impressive fundraising total, having raised money for the charity since 2011.
Paul and Sam both ran in aid of Action for Children, a UK-based charity that operates a number of different services for children and their families, ranging from intensive family support, to fostering and adoption. Combined, the two raised more than £3,000 for Action for Children, an outstanding achievement.
Signalling recruiter Sam completed the marathon with the fastest time, clocking in at just under four hours. His incredible journey started last year when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a game of Sunday football. After months of tireless recovery, Sam began training again and set a target to enter and complete the London Marathon in 2016.
Says Sam, ‘Entering the race was the easy part. The reality quickly came crashing down once I began training five days a week at 6 am in freezing weather. I was also struggling with constant niggling injuries that hampered my rehabilitation. It’s been a tough road to recovery to get to where I am now but it’s all been well worth it to raise money for a worthwhile cause.’
You can find out more about their journey to the London Marathon by visiting www.advance-trs.com/news
A train driver from Plymouth has battled and beat the odds to complete a tough IT qualification.
David Parr’s efforts have been recognised
by colleagues as he was declared ASLEF’s
Learner of the Year for 2016.
David has proved that barriers to learning
can be overcome if you have the motivation
and desire to achieve your goals. He
completed a Level 2 IT Application Specialist
Diploma (ITQ Apprenticeship) despite having to
travel extensively to course sessions and the
trauma of a family bereavement.
Stephenson College The IT course that David attended was
set up by ASLEF Education in partnership
with Stephenson College. IT courses are on
offer to rail workers across various venues in
Birmingham, Derby, Leeds and London.
To achieve his Level 2 computer qualification,
David had to complete modules in IT security,
word processing, e-publications, e-mail and
internet, PowerPoint presentations, Excel
spreadsheets as well as functional skills
assessments in maths and English.
David travelled regularly from Plymouth
to attend the IT sessions at Birmingham
with Stephenson College tutor, Cheryl
Duncan-Ratcliffe, over 12 months. As well as
Birmingham, David attended assessments in
London on his rest days to ensure that he could
complete the course.
David Parr has been a member of the train
drivers union for 30 years and started as a
trainee driver in April 1986. He started his
career in Ashford, before moving to Dover,
Eurostar at Waterloo and then Plymouth.
David’s father was a railway worker before
him and spent 41 years on the railways, 26 of
those as a driver. Sadly, David’s father passed
away suddenly in November 2015 whilst David
was nearing the end of his course. This was
inevitably an emotional and difficult time for
David and his family. David wrote a personal
and moving tribute to his dad, which was
included in the ASLEF Journal in January 2016.
Iron Man TriathlonWhilst doing his course, David managed
to find some time to complete a charity cycle
ride from Lands’ End to John O’Groats during
the summer of 2015. David planned out the
journey and completed this on his own over
11 days, averaging approximately 90 miles
per day. He raised funds for the British Heart
Foundation. He had previously raised funds for
cancer charities, taking on unusual challenges
like rowing around the Eddystone Lighthouse,
which is 12 miles off the coast of Plymouth. He
has also completed triathlon events including
his first Iron Man Triathlon in 2009.
Durham miners
David was presented with his ASLEF Learner
of the Year Award by Mick Whelan, ASLEF
General Secretary, at the ASLEF Union Learning
Conference in March. The Conference took
place in the magnificent historic conference
hall at the Durham Miners Association building
in Durham with 60 ASLEF Union Learning Reps
in attendance. When presenting the award,
Mick praised David for his hard work and
commitment to complete his IT qualification
and stated how important the role of ULRs have
been in setting up courses for ASLEF members,
‘Education leads to choice, and belief comes
from education, education leads to liberation,’
Whelan said.
Positive role modelDavid’s tutor, Cheryl Duncan-Ratcliffe,
said, ‘David has worked very conscientiously
throughout the course and I have seen his IT
skills, as well as his confidence in his IT abilities,
improve with each unit he has completed. He
is a positive role model for a mature student,
successfully balancing the course around
his work, home and other commitments,
including his charity bike ride.’
Says David, ‘More than ever before members
are expected to have a certain knowledge of IT
skills in the modern working environment, with
new digital technologies being introduced. It is
a worthy 12-month course and it has given me a
deeper knowledge of everyday computing use.
‘The only commitment is having the
self-discipline to manage yourself, with the
completion of each module and tests in the
allocated timeframe. In addition to this, I really
enjoyed the course and would encourage
others to take advantage of the courses offered
by ASLEF Education.’
Above Parr
Network Rail has completed work to protect the railway on the Cumbrian Coast line at Parton with the installation of a 15,000-tonne rock armour sea defence.
Contending with the dramatic tidal patterns
of the Irish Sea, a small team from the Orange
Army has been delivering emergency repairs
to the sea wall since storms battered sea
defences last Christmas.
It’s lonely dangerous work, but the team
quickly repaired the breaches in the wall using
cement as a temporary measure. What followed
was a daring mission to cheat the tides and get
onto the beach to install a permanent layer of
‘rock armour.’ These huge boulders now sit
at the base of the sea wall and absorb much
of the energy from the waves. Moving them
into position meant nifty in-out working to take
advantage of low tides.
‘In total, we’ve put around 15,000 tonnes
of the rock armour into place which will help
protect the railway for several decades to
come,’ says John Owen, works delivery
manager for Network Rail. ‘The main challenges
have been the weather and access, and we
had to carefully plan our work around low tides
so we could safely and effectively install these
defences,’ adds John.
‘The logistics were also challenging as we
had to move the rock in from quarries, into a
compound and then, during low tide, onto the
beach. The result is a safer and more reliable
railway for the people of Cumbria.’
Engineers also took advantage of the job to
clean up the beach in an added bonus for the
local community.
Orange Army dons rock armourA team from a rail-connected shipping and logistics depot on Teesside has raised £4,500 for the fight against Alzheimer’s disease by cycling coast-to-coast.
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Eurostar is celebrating the first anniversary of its popular direct service from London to Lyon and the South of France.
Heightened interest in the
vineyards of Beaujolais, the
Rhône Valley and Burgundy
close to Lyon and those of
Provence near Avignon is driving
the success of the Wine Line.
Says Nick Mercer, commercial
director, Eurostar, ‘We have seen
unprecedented demand for the
direct service to the South of
France as Brits’ love affair with
the scenery and gastronomy of
the region prevails. Our route
brings the wine tasting regions of
France closer to the UK.’
Another year in Provence
Despite witchcraft and weather the Hope Valley line between Sheffield and Manchester has reopened after Network Rail completed vital restoration work to protect Reddish viaduct.
A nine-day closure of the
Hope Valley line allowed rail
workers to remove track and
ballast and install a special
waterproof system with new
drainage along the viaduct.
Engineers worked day and
night conducting strengthening
work and stabilising the main
supporting columns on each of
the four corners of the viaduct.
Says Mark Ashton, Network
Rail’s scheme project manager,
‘The Reddish viaduct is stunning
and the work we completed
over the past nine days means
that it will remain that way for
another century.’
The 16-span Reddish viaduct
was built in 1875 and carries the
rail line over the River Tame. A
local legend states that during
construction a local witch
cursed the viaduct and anyone
who attempted to count the
number of arches. We are not
showing all of them.
Orange win for Reddish Viaduct
Northern Rail has presented a cheque for more than £12,000 to the Railway Benefit Fund (RBF).
Phil Jones of Northern Rail
and Branch Line Society’s Kevin
Adlam presented the cheque to
Fay Jaques, RBF’s fundraising
manager, at Manchester Victoria
station.
The £12,048.85 was raised by
rail enthusiasts who supported
an exclusive charter train. Over
200 people rode the exclusive
Northern Tracker train on 6
March, organised by both
Northern Rail and the Branch Line
Society (BLS).
The Northern Tracker was so
popular that tickets for the event
sold out within two weeks.
Fay Jaques praised staff. ‘We
are overwhelmed by the support
we have received from both
Northern Rail and BLS. We spent
the day on-board the Northern
Tracker, and the efforts everyone
went to to raise funds for us was
incredible,’ she said.
Northern Tracker fund
The award winning dramatisation of the Railway Children, featuring a live steam engine, at King’s Cross Theatre in London is to host what it calls a relaxed performance in June.
Ninety British Transport Police (BTP) officers and staff have completed a mammoth bike ride around Britain in aid of charity.
The Three Days on the Edge (3DotE) challenge saw the team pedal for up to 300 miles each around Britain’s coastline over the Bank Holiday Weekend in support of the force's three nominated charities: Victim Support, Mind and The Railway Benefit Fund.
Says Assistant Chief Constable Mark Newton, who himself took part, ‘A big thank you to everyone involved in this event. It’s been a very tough but enjoyable weekend. BTP3DotE is a fantastic example of how
this kind of challenge brings out the best in our people. Not only did they show real grit and determination, but also a great willingness to work as a team, with new friendships being formed along the way.
‘Well done to all the cyclists who took part this weekend and a massive thanks to all those who supported the team through sponsorship and fundraising. Special thanks goes to the crew of volunteers who kept the teams going with their excellent organisation, motivation and roadside support.’
The challenge has raised more than £25,000 so far. As well as the three chosen organisations, some of the money will be donated to charities put forward by individual riders.
A ScotRail driver has been praised for rescuing a three-year-old child he saw running along the railway.
Martin McManus brought his
train to a controlled stop in a text
book manoeuvre and collected
the child who had alighted from
a train travelling in the opposite
direction at Wester Hailes station
near Edinburgh.
Says Mr McManus, ‘I saw the
wee lad running along the track
crying, so I stopped my train and
made sure it was safe. I went out
and picked him up and brought
him back in.
‘He was looking for his mummy
and was just asking if his mummy
was on the train.’ An off duty police
officer on the train took charge
of master Nicholson who was
reunited with his parents at a local
police station. The child’s mother,
Bonnie Nicholson of Glasgow,
praised the actions of the driver.
Mr McManus said, ‘I’m quite
surprised by the reaction, I was
only doing my job. Passengers
were getting off and thanking me
for saving the wee boy. It could
have been really tragic, so I was
lucky I spotted him but it’s all just
part of my job.’
Mr McManus joined the railway
four years ago after a successful
career as an aircraft engineer in
the Royal Navy.
Fife driver hailed a hero Coastal cycle challenge for BTP
Rail staff surveyHave your say and win!
To complete the survey visit www.brtr.pl/railstaff
of vouchers for a store of your choice or one of five £50 vouchers
£250you could win
At the Institution of Railway Signal Engineer’s AGM on 22 April, Andrew Simmons of Network Rail handed over the presidency of the Institution to Charles Page.
Each president is elected for
one year. Charles is the business
development director of Siemens
Rail Automation Australia and
prior to that worked with its
predecessors Invensys and
Westinghouse.
Before presenting his
presidential address, Charles
paid tribute to Andrew’s
dedication over the past year in
leading the IRSE, during which
time the Institution’s new Strategy
2015-2020 has been developed
and adopted.
In his address, Charles spoke
on the theme of ‘Inform, Discuss,
Develop’ – an acknowledgement
of the role of the IRSE - and
other engineering institutions -
in supporting the professional
development of engineers.
Thorrowgood ScholarshipTom Corker was announced as
Call now for more info, a demonstration or free trial.
3squared.co/edsFor more information go to:
Features:• Training and Assessment Planning
• Route and Traction Knowledge Management
• Candidate Profiling
• Auditing and Verifying
• European Drivers License
• Incident Management
Reduce the administrative burden and cost of compliance.An Employee Development System that enables Train Operating Companies to deliver targeted
training and support. Helping to lower business risk and reduce incidents.
Benefits: • Improved visibility of competence data
• Proactive employee competency management
• Better business risk and incident management
• Reduces the cost of compliance
• Improved staff retention
• Better resource management
A product of
WINNING YOUNG HEARTS AND MINDS JAMES FOX, COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR OF3SQUARED, EXPLAINS WHY HE BELIEVESTECHNOLOGY WILL HELP TO FURTHERENHANCE RAIL SAFETY IN THE FUTURE.
Since the Ladbroke Grove train crash, operators have
been focused on reducing their level of SPaDs (Signal
passed at danger) and introducing systems to ensure
consistently high levels of competency. Reduction or
elimination of SPaDs is obviously a clear sign of driver
competency, but for many rail operators, the question
is how to achieve this.
There are many factors which can lead to SPaDs,
but this is usually down to poor judgement or a dip
in competency level and understanding, leading to
human error. SPaDs most often occur at low speeds where the driver
has applied the brakes too late, again which could be an ongoing
competency development or judgement issue.
Rail assessors have very busy roles. Often they are required to
assess many different drivers and carry out these assessments at
frequent intervals as part of meeting ROGS. Traditional paper-based
competency management systems are still widely used to generate
a Safety Critical Portfolio that could be hundreds of pages long, per
driver. This valuable information often sits on a shelf and gets added to,
but assessors often do not have the time to sift through all this data to
plan future assessments. With paper-based systems, it can be difficult
to identify areas of concern where future training is required, leading to
gaps in knowledge and a reduction in driver competency.
DIGITALISATIONRail operators are therefore looking for digitisation to provide
them with a much safer solution to the issue of competency
management and compliance. The latest software introduced to
address competency in the rail industry, such as RailSmart, helps to
improve operational efficiency and reduce SPaD risks by providing
an accurate, easily accessible and mobile picture of an individual’s
overall competency, which is
fundamental to enhancing the
safety of the rail network.
This software is usually
provided through web-based
apps, which give real-time
reporting of compliance against
standards and removes the
administration burden associated
with paper-based competency
management systems.
A major advantage is that an
assessor’s time is therefore freed
up to better support, develop
and manage safety-critical
employees. Managers can then
increase the amount of time they
spend on in-line management,
which can be targeted towards
lower competency individuals
and so lowers the risk of any
further operational incidents.
This gives them the time and
ability to understand the driver
on a personal level and what
the human factors and other
influences there are on them.
It also allows them to focus
on how they can be properly
supported to help manage
operational risk.
REPORT BY JAMES FOX
COMPETENCY MANAGEMENT WINNING YOUNG HEARTS AND MIN
Don’t forget to book your exhibition space and be one of over 300 exhibitors at Rail Live this year! We are taking bookings until May 20. The interest has been exceptional and we are selling plots quickly. Don’t miss out on the biggest outdoor rail show in the UK – the only show set in a rail environment where you will see demonstrations of all shapes and sizes taking place over two days: 22 & 23 June.
We have all sorts of activities taking place
– including for the first time a Business Zone,
where you can find information on the Rail
Supply Group, Young Rail Professionals,
NSAR, Test Voucher Scheme (RSSB), a
packed conference programme and much
more! There is also the recent exciting
announcement of the Network Rail Awards
presentation that will take place on the
evening of Wednesday, 22 June, as well as
an evening get-together which will be ticket
only. We will announce the location and
details very soon.
We are really looking forward to seeing
the Rail Supply Chain coming together once
again to be part of this industry highlight
event of the year!
Please go to www.raillive.com for all the
information on how to book. Visitor tickets
are free.
Follow us on twitter: @rail_live / #raillive2016
Rail Alliance networking events and workshops
We continue to run a jam-packed
networking schedule and in this month’s
column, we take a look at recent and
upcoming events.
Innovation in franchisingMost recently we had the honour of being
hosted by Dr. Nick Maillinson and the team
at Warwick University Manufacturing Group,
where delegates had the opportunity to hear
presentations from the Go-Ahead Group,
The Hack Partners, IBM and RSSB on their
respective approaches to and application of
innovation in the franchise market.
COUNTDOWN TO RAIL LIVE 2016!
NEW MEMBERS
The RSSB used the session to alert the
audience to the upcoming competition TOC
16, ‘a £4 million programme focusing on
increasing collaboration between TOCs and the
supply chain in order to innovate and improve
performance or service, increase reliability and
safety, increase rail capacity, reduce journey
times and ultimately be of benefit to the
customer,’ says RSSB. For more information,
or to register for the competition launch event
on 16 May, please contact us or check out
@RSSB_rail on Twitter.
Upcoming events:• 12 May ‘Opportunities for Composites in
Samaritans is proud to sponsor the Lifesaver award at this years’ RailStaff Awards
TALKING SAVES LIVES
For more info and to nominate a colleague www.railstaffawards.com
10,000 rail industry personnel and British Transport Police officers have been trained with the skills to help a person in need. These skills can encourage people to talk about their problems and help save lives.
of the Year AwardWith the help of the TOCs, Network Rail and other employers throughout the public transport industry
we now have over 47,000 members.For just £1 a week, a variety of financial, health and welfarebenefits are available to you, your partner and dependent
children if you work in the public transport industry......people just like you
Transport Benevolent Fund CIO, known as TBF, is a registered charity in England and Wales, 1160901
The rail industry and community organisations will join together to celebrate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 90th Birthday, with the Station to Station Queens Celebration.
Coming to a station near you!
We are actively calling all rail industry suppliers to join in and help promote the broad spectrum of career
opportunities the industry has to offer
To find out how you can join in this wonderful event please visit our websitewww.queenscelebration.com
11/12 JUNE 2016
EVENTS
GUIDE TO UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE RAIL INDUSTRYTHE NEXT FEW MONTHS, AT A GLANCE
Terry Morgan
Chairman
of Crossrail
speaking at
the Rail Exec
Luncheon in
March 2016.
RAIL POWER
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
26th - 27th May, London
terrapinn.com/events
ASIA RAIL SUMMIT
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
26th - 27th May, Bangkok,
Thailand
ourpolaris.com/2016/ars
RAILTEL 2016
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
26th - 27th May, London
terrapinn.com/events
LIGHT RAIL 2016
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
26th - 27th May, London
terrapinn.com/events
RAILPOWER
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
26th - 27th May, London
terrapinn.com/events
METRO RAIL
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
27th May , London
terrapinn.com/events
11TH WORLD CONGRESS ON RAILWAY RESEARCH
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
29th May - 2nd June,
Milan, Italy
wcrr2016.org
MAY
CORE 2016
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
16th - 18th May, Melbourne, AUS
core2016.org
GLASGOW SUBWAY DEPOT
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
19th May, Glasgow
imeche.org
RAIL FRANCHISE SUMMIT
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
19th May, Leeds
railsummits.com
RAIL EXEC HS2 NETWORK LUNCHEON
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
19th May, Leicester
railexec.com
SCANDINAVIAN RAIL DEVELOPMENT 2016
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
24th May, Stockholm, Sweden
scandinavianraildevelopment.com
WORLD METRO RAIL CONGRESS (TERRAPIN)
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
26th & 27th May, London
terrapinn.com/events
EVENTS KEY CONFERENCE
EXHIBITION
TECHNICAL VISIT
PRESS CONFERENCE
NETWORK
AWARDS
DINNER
FREE TO ATTEND
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
FranchiseSummit
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
www.railsummits.com
NEW FRANCHISINGDelivering a Sustainable Railway for the Future
Thursday 19th May 2016Addleshaw Goddard Offi ces, LEEDS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
The event will offer an insight into how the DfT’s new approach to franchising, which focuses on service quality, and capacity growth will improve rail services across England and Wales. Taking the recently awarded Northern Franchise, as an example, this conference aims to show how this investment has wider implications for the development of the Northern Powerhouse through new and innovative developments.
It will also highlight how through engaging with key community stakeholders sustainable business growth can be delivered.
FranchiseSummitNEW FRANCHISING
Delivering a Sustainable Railway for the Future www.railsummits.com
JUNE
TRAIN COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
8th-9th June, London
traincomms2016.com
NRM NATIONAL BLACK TIE DINNER
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free9th June, York
nrm.org.uk
STATION TO STATION
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
11th-12th June
nrm.org.uk
RAIL LIVE
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
22nd -23rd June, Long Marston
railalliance.co.uk
ASSET INFORMATION & DATA MANAGEMENT FOR SMART RAIL
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
14th - 15th June, London
infrastructureassetinformation.com
RAIL & METRO
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
14th - 16th June, Shanghai, China
10times.com/metro-china-expo
APTA RAIL CONFERENCE
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
19th - 22nd June, Phoenix, USA
apta.com
AUGUST
MICHIGAN RAIL CONFERENCE
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
17th - 18th August, Michigan, USA
rail.mtu.edu
AREMA CONFERENCE
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
28th - 31st August, Orlando, USA
arema.org
SEPTEMBER
APTA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
11th - 14th September, LA, USA
apta.com
RAIL EXEC NETWORKING LUNCHEON
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free15th September, London
railexec.com
INNOTRANS
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
20th - 23rd September, Berlin
innotrans.de/en
OCTOBER
RVE 2016
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
6th October, Derby
onyxrail.co.uk
RAILSTAFF AWARDS
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free
press conference
network
conference
exhibition
tech
awaards
dinner
free8th October, Coventry
railstaffawards.com
SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT CONGRESS & EXHIBITION
2016The largest UK outdoor rail showas endorsed by Network Rail
The railway is always evolving and, as an organisation measured by
performance, we need to embrace innovation and best practice in the rail sector.
We are looking forward to Rail Live 2016, a well-established event that really does set out to address and meet industry challenges now and for the future.
Steve Featherstone Track Programme Director, Network Rail
‘set out to address and meet industry challenges now and for the future.
Track Programme Director, Network Rail
22-23 JUNE 2016LONG MARSTON
With Support From
®
A Rail Alliance Event
2016VISITOR REGISTRATION FREE
To book as an exhibitor* or visitor, please visit www.raillive.com
* Exhibitor booking deadline 20 May 2016
infrastructure & civils | traction & rolling stock
engineering | electrifi cation | rail maintenance
materials & product development/testing
safety | digital | innovation | signalling
> Hundreds of suppliersin one location
> Live demonstrations and innovative working methods
> Meet customers and suppliers face-to-face
> Latest in best practice solutions and equipment
> Information and expertise on rail business growth/development
> High profi le conference with keynote industry speakers
RICHARD GEORGE, GROUP MANAGINGDIRECTOR OF SNC-LAVALIN RAIL &TRANSIT, ON THE LOSS OF THEINTERFLEET NAME AND THEOPPORTUNITIES THAT LIE AHEAD
When I last spoke to you, I was
probably optimistic and secretly
slightly nervous’, said Richard.
Eight months ago, we’d sat down
in a breakout area next to his
office to discuss the future of one
of the most-trusted names in rail
engineering and consultancy,
Interfleet.
In 2011, the Derby-based
consultancy was acquired by Canada’s SNC-Lavalin. In
September last year, Interfleet announced that from 1 January
2016 the company would adopt the name of its parent
company to become SNC-Lavalin Rail & Transit. It was an
unnerving prospect for a company that trades off its reputation
and a much more complicated process than printing off a few
new business cards.
‘How much business have we lost? None. How much
business have we gained as a consequence? We’ll see,’
said Richard, who joined Interfleet in 2013.
‘Around the world the profile has now changed and that
will take time to come through, but it certainly has not done
us any damage at all and there are some opportunities that
have been opened up as a consequence.’
GLOBAL COMPANYSNC-Lavalin employs 37,000 people around the world,
with the majority of those working in oil and gas. For SNC-
Lavalin, the acquisition of Interfleet was an opportunity to
expand its expertise in rail, which had primarily involved
work on light rail systems. For Interfleet and its 750-or-so
employees, it was an opportunity to really make an impact
on a global stage. Not that Interfleet wasn’t already active
overseas. As Richard puts it, ‘I think a lot of people saw
Interfleet as a UK company with some offices overseas
which isn’t quite the same thing as being a global company.’
‘First of all, globally we now have a bigger clout than we
Together we can bridge the skills gap and inspire a new generation into rail careers, promoting our industry as the exciting, ambitious and growing sector that we all love.
The inaugural Rail Week is a truly pan-industry collaborative programme. The rail sector will open its doors to thousands of students in schools, colleges and universities, and go out into the community and support teachers to deliver exciting interactive rail activities.
We need you to:
Host tours of your depots, factories, control centres, stations, etc., Give public lectures and seminars about your incredible projects, Volunteer your staff to promote rail in schools as Rail Week STEM Ambassadors.
Rail Week can be whatever you want it to be. If you have a great idea shout about it and show off to the world what we can do together!
Join the ranks of organisations below who’ve already pledged their support.
Sir Peter Hendy with the
YRP family at the Young Rail
Professionals fifth Annual
Black Tie Dinner.
Together we can bridge the skills gap and inspire a new generation into rail careers, promoting our industry as the exciting, ambitious and growing sector that we all love.
The inaugural Rail Week is a truly pan-industry collaborative programme. The rail sector will open its doors to thousands of students in schools, colleges and universities, and go out into the community and support teachers to deliver exciting interactive rail activities.
We need you to:
Host tours of your depots, factories, control centres, stations, etc., Give public lectures and seminars about your incredible projects, Volunteer your staff to promote rail in schools as Rail Week STEM Ambassadors.
Rail Week can be whatever you want it to be. If you have a great idea shout about it and show off to the world what we can do together!
Join the ranks of organisations below who’ve already pledged their support.
– Rail and Infrastructure Vacancies Currently Available –
Rail Project Manager Birmingham, London, York and Derby Degree educated, NEC experience £300 - £450/day or £35 - £65k
RAMS Specialist + Rail AssessorsMiddle East £100k or £500 - £750/day
Quantity Surveyors / Commercial Managers London, Derby, Midlands and York £35 - £65k or £300 - £450/day
DPE/CRE - Track and P-Way EngineersRugby, Swindon, and Derby £40K - £55K or £300 - £500/day
Rail Site and Construction Manager London, Birmingham and East Anglia £35K - £55K or £250 - £350/day
P6 Project Planners London, Midlands, Reading and Manchester £40K - £65K or £350 - £500/day
Project Controls Manager London, Midlands, Reading and Manchester £55 - £70K
OLE Engineers / Managers Rugby, Swindon and Derby £300 - £500/day
Please email your CV to andrew.johnson@trssta� ng.comor if you’d prefer to discuss any roles call +44 (0)20 7419 5800
www.trssta� ng.com
TRS Sta� ng Solutions are international engineering recruitment specialists. We recruit for major national and international projects for leading national rail organisations, main contractors and consultancies.
Global Scale. Local Focus.
Engineering ManagerSalary £40,000 PA
(Permanent after completion of probation period)
We are looking to recruit an experienced and enthusiastic Engineering Manager to lead all of our engineering functions.
The post holder will be a qualified electrical engineer and have experience in running a workshop and extensive project
management skills.
This is a unique opportunity to join a highly skilled team, committed to ensure the award-winning Crich Tramway Village,
home of the Accredited National Tramway Museum, delivers world-class restorations of heritage trams and maintain a
thrilling visitor experience.
Please visit:www.tramway.co.uk
…and complete the specific application form and return to us with a short covering letter. Submissions of CVs without
completed application form will not be considered.
Based at Crich, Derbyshire.
Closing date: Tuesday 31st May 2016
WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CANDIDATES AND CLIENTS TO DELIVER TALENT THAT ENHANCES THE UK RAIL SECTOR.Since inception in 2001 ATA Rail has helped over 8000 talented individuals make their next career move within the rail sector. Our dedicated and highly trained team of rail recruitment specialists have over 100 years of collective industry expertise which helps facilitate the connection between the ‘best talent’ in the market and the ‘best client opportunities.’
Attracting, Selecting, Engaging and Retaining talent are some of the greatest challenges facing the UK rail sector. ATA Rail provide clients with access to knowledge and expertise that enables you to tackle these challenges through improved;
If you are finding it challenging to locate the calibre of individuals to drive your business forward please contact one of our dedicated railrecruitment specialists for a confidential discussion.
CALL: 0333 011 2046 and select OPTION 1 | OR VISIT: www.ata-recruitment.co.uk
ATTRACTIONDefining and improving value proposition to market
SELECTION Understanding and refining selection methodology/ process
ENGAGEMENTDeveloping improved candidate engagement plan and facilitating
RETENTIONPost placement support process with issue identification and resolution
ATA | SPECIALISTS IN RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE, ROLLING STOCK ENGINEERING AND TRAIN OPERATIONS
Please forward your application to [email protected] or call Rod Shaw, Managing Director, RGS Executive with any particular queries on 0115 959 9687.
GB Railfreight is a leading and award winning freight operating company employing 650 people in the UK delivering over 1,000 train loads per week. With over 120 locomotives and 1,100 wagons, the company operates 15% of the UK railfreight market at the highest levels of reliability including:
• Intermodal Transport• Petro-chemicals, Biomass and Coal• Metal, Building Materials and other Commodities• Infrastructure Equipment and Services• Rail Vehicle Haulage
Due to planned retirement, a Commercial Director is sought to join the company’s senior management team, reporting to the Managing Director.
The role will include responsibility for the management of all commercial activities and the leadership of an experienced team with sector specialisms and a very strong customer focus.
As part of a close working board level team, the role will influence the strategic development of GB Railfreight including product and service development, new business, operations, rolling stock, customer engagement and risk management.
Candidates will have strong backgrounds in UK rail operations and logistics as well as an understanding of the commodities hauled and their associated economics. Experience of developing strong working relations and managing commercial arrangements at senior personal and corporate levels should also be demonstrable.
Commercial Director £ Six figure salary plus strong benefits package London Base
“An outstanding board level commercial, strategic and managerial opportunity”
RGS - MAY ADVERT.indd 1 19/04/2016 11:56
MANAGING DIRECTORBirmingham base | £ Attractive package
‘An outstanding opportunity to lead a developing rolling stock engineering business’
Vossloh Kiepe UK is a subsidiary of the German based Vossloh Kiepe GmbH.
The business is a leader in railway rolling stock engineering, enhancement and systems integration and provides high quality turnkey project and consultancy services to maximise vehicle utilisation and performance. Current annual sales turnover is circa £20m.
With excellent rail engineering, production and project management skills; Vossloh Kiepe UK operates from offices in Birmingham and from a range of project facilities to suit vehicle and fleet locations around the UK.
The key elements of the role are to:
• Develop and manage the company’s strategic plan
• Promote revenue, profitability and growth as foundations for business success
• Provide expert leadership and guidance to the senior management team; managing, motivating and developing performance
• Lead top level business development, customer relations, financial performance and personnel development initiatives and strategies
• Take responsibility for the health, safety and wellbeing of up to 150 people at work
• Ensure proper governance and uphold the ethics of the business
Candidates should have strong management team / board level experience gained in railway engineering and project management businesses and ideally in rolling stock.
Preferred candidates are also likely to be proven in leading significant teams of people, strategic business leaders, experienced in project oriented activities and able to exert influence at all levels including customers, suppliers and key stakeholders.
Qualifications will ideally be at graduate level in an engineering discipline and possibly with Chartered status.
Along with an attractive salary the overall remuneration package will include a fully expensed company car, bonus arrangements and other benefits.
Please forward your application to [email protected] or call Rod Shaw, Managing Director, RGS Executive with any particular queries on 0115 959 9687.
Marketing and Sales Team020 7500 6901www.expressmedicals.co.uk
RAILWAY MEDICAL SERVICESFROM EXPRESS MEDICALS
Express Medicals have been providing railway medical services since 1996. We provide medical examinations and drugs & alcohol testing to meet Network Rail, London Underground and DLR standards.
If you have a requirement for such services please do not hesitate to contact us.
KEEPINGYOURIGHTON TRACK
KEEPINGYOURIGHTON TRACK
ONGOING SUPPORT
PROMPTSERVICE
MEDICALEXPERTS
MARKETLEADERS
COUNSELLING
DRUG ANDALCOHOL SERVICES
HEALTH SURVEILLANCE
OCCUPATIONALHEALTH
PHYSIOTHERAPY
RAIL MEDICALS
TRAVEL HEALTH
VACCINATIONS
WELLBEING
BLOOD TESTS
Marketing and Sales Team020 7500 6901www.expressmedicals.co.uk
Marketing and Sales Team020 7500 6901www.expressmedicals.co.uk
