Safety First

Our Lifesaving Rules

Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. These Rules are in place to keep us safe and must never be broken. We will all personally intervene if we feel a situation or behaviour might be unsafe.

Life Saving Rules

Working Responsibly

Always be sure the required plans and permits are in place, before you start a job or go on or near the line.

Always use equipment that is fit for its intended purpose.

Never undertake any job unless you have been trained and assessed as competent.

Never work or drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Driving

Never use a hand-held or hands-free phone, or programme any other mobile device, while driving.

Always obey the speed limit and wear a seat belt.

Electricity

Always test before applying earths or straps.

At Height

Always use a safety harness when working at height, unless other protection is in place.

Moving Equipment

Never enter the agreed exclusion zone, unless directed to by the person in charge.

Safety Measures

Regulatory Compliance

Agency Oversight: Follow FRA and OSHA standards across all worksites.

Training: Mandatory safety training programs (e.g., FRA Part 243).

Testing: Strict drug and alcohol testing protocols for safety-sensitive roles.

Work Site Safety

Train Protection: Use qualified lookouts and adhere to strict track clearance distances.

Equipment: Routine checks on machinery and strict material storage protocols.

Electrical: Always assume overhead wires and tracks are live high-voltage systems.

Protective Equipment

Visibility: High-visibility clothing must be worn at all times near the right-of-way.

Protection: Hard hats and steel-toed boots are essential.

Sensory: Eye and hearing protection required during specific hazardous tasks.

Operational Practices

Communication: Clear radio or hand signal protocols between all trackside workers.

Preparedness: Regular fatigue management and emergency first-aid response readiness.

Excavation: Always "call before you dig" and follow shoring safety procedures.

Construction Safety Measures

Beyond our Lifesaving Rules, we adhere strictly to comprehensive safety measures tailored for railway construction. This ensures a proactive safety culture across every worksite.