Working in a rail depot is inherently dangerous – high-speed vehicles, high-voltage electricity and powerful machinery are just some of the risks staff face every day. So why isn’t there more focus on improving depot safety standards? Should workers accept that injury (or worse) is part of the job?
According to RSSB figures, maintenance facilities account for 20% of all workforce harm and 25% of workforce fatalities in the last five years. This impaired health is a huge problem for the industry. The safety board estimates it costs £899 million annually, with 1.3 million days lost to sickness absence. This is twice the national average. Despite these frankly shocking statistics, there has been no notable reduction in workforce harm in depots for the last five years. Surely it is time for change?
We’ve all heard the adage ‘to err is human’ and that may be so, but we don’t have to accept the risk of human error in rail depots. Technology is available that can automate safety procedures, removing manual processes and allowing the safe and effective movement of vehicles.
The rail safety specialist, Sheffield-based Zonegreen, has been finding innovative ways to reduce the risks to maintenance staff for the last 25 years. The firm’s Depot Personnel Protection System (DPPS) safeguards workers by using Network Rail-approved powered derailers, linked to road end panels that control vehicle movements.
Use the form opposite to get in touch with Zonegreen directly to discuss any requirements you might have.