Safety Newsletter Winter 2025
Contents 03 04 05 06 07 11 12 17 28 29
Finishing the year safely and looking ahead Work safe, home safe Social value Why behaviours matter Winter weather driving What is a close call? Network Rail rules books and standards Safety alerts Charities & support services Office locations
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Finishing the year safely and looking ahead It has been a little while since our last newsletter, and December gives us the perfect moment to reconnect, reflect, and refocus. As we reach the end of the year, it is important to recognise the efforts of everyone across the business who has shown commitment, honesty, and resilience during a busy period of work and change. Throughout the year we have seen how small behavioural choices on site, whether it is a shortcut, unclear communication, or an assumption about access, can escalate into incidents with serious consequences. These events remind us that safety is not only about the rules written in a method statement. It is about the decisions we all make in the moment. Choosing to double check, to challenge, or to stop and think. These behaviours protect your own safety and the wellbeing of those working alongside you. A single misstep can lead to investigation, suspension, or in the worst cases, life changing injuries. Equally, a single safe choice can prevent these outcomes. The responsibility is shared by all of us, every shift. As we close out the year, I want to say a sincere thank you to everyone who has taken part in site visits, Lead Safe conversations, the development of our digital logbooks, safety briefings and engagement days. Your time, effort and commitment have made a real difference and continue to strengthen the way we deliver our work and the culture we are building together. I hope you all get the chance to switch off, spend time with those who matter most and return in the new year refreshed and ready for what’s ahead. Thank you for everything you do and have a safe and well deserved Christmas.
Adam Jones
Head of Safety, Rail
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Work safe, home safe What do we mean by Work Safe, Home Safe? We mean that we are fit and prepared for work. We work safely with our colleagues and follow the rules. We go home in a safe condition, free from harm. How do we go about it? We follow 5 Brilliant Basics Be fit and ready for work, physically and mentally Always follow the rules – no short cuts If unsure, Take Five, stop work and ask If anything is unsafe, Take Five, stop work and report Treat each day like Day 1, do not be complacent What are we doing behind the scenes to make us successful at what we do? We put people at the centre of what we do We analyse mistakes very rigorously We try to create an open atmosphere where everyone can speak up We are willing to fix what is wrong if it is under our control We relentlessly pursue new work and new opportunities We never give in to complacency
HSQE Team Gareth Morris
Keith Wright
Jane Hepburn
HSQE Director, Morson International - Manchester Gareth.Morris@morson.com 07736 657 039
HSE Adviser and Safety Unit Keith.Wright@vital.uk.com 07717 306 775
Health & Safety Accident & Investigation Lead Jane.Hepburn@vital.uk.com 07717 306 797
Adam Jones
Leon Richards
Head of Safety Adam.Jones@vital.uk.com 07717 306 852
Health and Safety Champion Leon.Richards@vital.uk.com
My Idea How would you improve safety?
To be in with the chance to with £100 worth of gift vouchers, email us your ideas at:
What are your ideas for innovation? What would you change?
MYIDEA@VITAL.COM
Social value A look at our recent social value highlights, showcasing the positive impact delivered across our communities, partners, and colleagues. Farnham – Movember: Supported fundraising initiatives to raise awareness of men’s health. Awareness Days – Rugby Train Station: Delivered public-facing awareness days promoting key health and safety messages. Volunteering – Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal: Volunteered time selling and supporting poppies to raise funds and awareness for veterans and their families. Tree Planting Volunteering – Morson Group: Supported an environmental initiative by planting 1,446 trees in partnership with the Morson Group. Cake Bake Sale – Macmillan Cancer Support: Organised and supported a bake sale to raise funds for Macmillan. Bake Festival – Amey Octopussy Project: Raised £170 in support of the Amey Octopussy Project. Harvest Festival with Amey – Destination Florida: Raised £96.60 for Destination Florida. CRSA Doncaster – Health Checks: Delivered 30 health checks, resulting in a life-saving intervention. Network Rail – London: Delivered 30 health checks to staff. Rail Safe Friendly Partnership: Became official partners of the Rail Safe Friendly initiative. Community Donations – Salford: Donated clothing and underwear to support vulnerable individuals in Salford.
Why behaviours matter: Lessons from recent Incidents Recent investigations across the industry have shown repeated themes. Communication not being clear enough. Access arrangements being assumed rather than confirmed. Pressure leading people to take shortcuts. These decisions are often made with good intentions, but the outcomes can be severe. The railway does not allow room for uncertainty. Safe behaviours must always come first. Reflective Case Reference: Loddon Bridge, 1972
One of the most significant construction failures in the United Kingdom occurred during the building of Loddon Bridge in 1972. Temporary falsework collapsed because the design had not been properly checked. Assumptions were made about stability, and risks were not communicated or verified.
Three workers lost their lives and ten others were injured. The incident led directly to the Bragg Report and later to the introduction of BS 5975. This created formal requirements that we now rely on, including the role of the Temporary Works Coordinator, structured approvals, and documented design checks. It is a clear example of how one preventable failure reshaped national practice and strengthened expectations that protect us today. The message is timeless. When behaviours drift, even familiar tasks can become unsafe. When we challenge, check, communicate, and support each other, risk reduces and people stay safe. Looking Ahead to 2026 As we move into the new year, we will continue to focus on positive behaviours and the systems that support them. Let us finish the year safely, recognise the progress we have made, and enter 2026 with a shared commitment to improvement. Small, positive behaviours create safe teams, safe projects, and a safer railway. Safety Newsletter - Vital | 6
Winter weather driving Winter brings increased risks for vehicle accidents due to adverse weather and shorter daylight hours. Historically, road traffic incidents rise during this time. However, combining thorough vehicle checks, careful journey planning, and mindful driving can reduce these risks. Winter Weather Preparations Garage Checks: Ignition, brakes, wiring, hoses, fan belts, and spark plugs Air, fuel, and emission filters Battery condition (replace if unreliable) Tyre condition and radiator antifreeze levels Self-Checks: Ensure all lights are clean and functional. Keep tyres properly inflated with at least 3mm tread depth. Clear windows and mirrors of ice, snow, and dirt to avoid visibility issues, especially with low winter sun. Fully de-mist windows before setting off. Ensure wiper blades are in good condition and washer fluid is topped up. Carry a map or Sat Nav and ensure enough fuel for unexpected delays. Inform someone of your route and estimated arrival time. Vehicle Essentials: Ice scraper, de-icer, snow brush Fully charged mobile phone Torch with spare batteries Warm clothes, blanket, food, and hot drink Boots, shovel, and sunglasses (for glare off snow) Properly inflated spare tyre, wheel wrench, and jack Journey Planning Tips: Reduce speed in worsening conditions, maintaining at least three times the usual stopping distance. Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, or sharp movements. Brake gently and on straights. Use low gears for traction and avoid cruise control on icy roads. Be cautious on bridges and shaded roads prone to ice. Avoid overtaking snow ploughs or gritting vehicles. Clear snow from the vehicle roof before driving to prevent it from obstructing visibility.
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Winter weather driving If You Get Stuck: Avoid spinning your wheels; it worsens the situation. Turn wheels side to side to clear snow. Use light acceleration or rock the vehicle if safe. Clear snow around the wheels and use sand or grit for traction. If You’re Stranded: Stay in the car unless help is certain. Signal distress with a brightly coloured cloth. Run the engine for warmth periodically, ensuring the exhaust is clear. Use blankets and wool items for warmth and eat food to maintain energy. Notify someone at work of your situation. Dos and Don’ts: Don’t travel unless necessary. Do ensure the vehicle is fully prepared. Don’t drive if you’re uncomfortable with the conditions. Discussion Questions: Which roads freeze over first? What braking techniques should be used? What’s the recommended tyre tread depth? Why are sunglasses useful in snowy conditions? Remember, staying safe on the roads during winter starts with proper preparation and a safety-first mindset. By taking these precautions and staying alert, you not only protect yourself but also others around you. Let’s prioritise safety, plan, and ensure every journey is a safe one. If you have any concerns or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Stay safe out there!
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Winter weather driving As we approach the winter season, our focus turns to risks around cold weather. We recommend all vehicles carry a Winter Vehicle Pack which should include, as a minimum: Ice-scraper De-Icer
Flashlight Batteries
Blanket Extra warm clothing
Food/water supplies First aid kit
Gloves Phone charger
Brakes applied - Assume speed of 35mph Dry 130-170 feet
Wet 150-195 feet
Before you set off: Check for adverse weather forecasts and allow extra journey time if required Plan your route and check for road closures Inform others of your travel plans, especially in remote areas Remove any snow or ice from the vehicle
Wet leaves 275-360 feet
Ice 320-425 feet
Winter driving precautions: Slow down and monitor your traction once you get on the road to check road conditions. Maintain a safe gap between you and the vehicle in front of you. Brake smoothly and always in plenty of time Never use cruise control in icy or wet conditions Put lights on in gloomy weather and when visibility is reduced
Vehicle checks Basic regular checks on your company and personal vehicles will help keep you safe on the road and reduce repair costs. VolkerFitzpatrick recommend a P.O.W.D.E.R.S check. Power - Make sure you have enough fuel for your journey, plus extra in case of delays. If you have an electric vehicle (EV), remember that cold weather can reduce battery range and increase charging time. Plan your route and charging stops accordingly. Oil - Maintaining the correct oil level is essential to prevent your engine from seizing up and breaking down. Check the levels whilst the vehicle is cool and on a flat surface. Water - Ensure you keep the coolant topped up as water is essential to keep your engine from over heating. Always keep your screen wash topped up so you can clear any debris or dirt off your windscreen. Damage - Check the vehicle for damage, including wiper blades. Electrics - Check all of the lights, horn and wipers are in working order – they are not only essential for you; they are also essential for other drivers too. Rubber - Check the tyres tread, depth and pressure regularly and make sure there are no bulges or cuts on the side of the tyres. It is a legal requirement that each tyres tread has a minimum depth of 1.6mm. Self - Make sure you are well rested and are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Plan your route and plan breaks during your journey.
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Increased risk can come from Icy or wet surfaces causing slip hazards. Fallen leaves or snow hiding hazards. Decreased daylight hours resulting in working in low light conditions. Low temperatures increase the risk from manual handling injuries and Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Reduced road conditions increase handling problems. Here are the precautions you can take: Take regular breaks. Wear properly fitted and the correct type of PPE for your tasks. Gloves: Insulated hard hats and a balaclava reduce body heat loss through the head and face. Gloves prevent loss of dexterity and protect body heat. Workwear: Consider thermal base layers to maintain body heat. Keep moving and stay warm by exercising and exercising fingers during meal breaks. Smoking reduces blood circulation. Use warm shelters for breaks. Emergency kit essentials Warm clothes, blanket or sleeping bag. Food and drink – enough to last you a reasonable amount of time. Sturdy boots – footwear for travelling to your vehicle is essential that footwear is stable. A torch and batteries or a spare can be placed over tyres to gain traction when stuck in snow. Ice scraper and de-icer. Warning triangle and high visibility clothing.
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What is a close call? A Close Call is anything that has the potential to cause harm to a person, the environment, or railway equipment or infrastructure. Close Calls should be fixed then and there, where it is safe to do so. A close call is a positive act and is treated confidentially in a blame free environment . We need your help to make our incident/Accident and close call reporting system works as effectively as possible Close Calls could include: Unsafe working environments identified before work starting Unsafe behaviours Unsafe storage of chemicals Environment and sustainability concerns, such as overgrown vegetation (not restricting view) Liquid spills cleared up safely and immediately that has not impacted the ground or water course Unsuitable SSOW or methodology identified before the work has been started Out of date equipment or PPE identified before starting work What could be an accident/incident? An accident/incident is an event where the infrastructure or property has been damaged, or a person has come to harm. These events should be reported to your H&S Team. Accident/Incident could include: A member of staff or member of public has been injured The infrastructure or equipment has been damaged Staff accessing the railway without a suitable SSOW Work starting or taking place without the correct permit in place A leak of a substance to the ground or water course, such as oil A fire What could be a Fault? A fault is identified as an unsafe condition within the railway infrastructure/property that could cause harm or damage and needs to be addressed. Faults could include: Unsafe working environments Hypodermic needles left on a walkway or lineside SIgnals not displaying the correct or any aspect Track defects not caused by work being undertaken Trees or branches leaning dangerously close to operational railway Access point lock missing Access point gate broken It is better to have a close call than a lesson learnt
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Network Rail rule books and standards update September 2025 GERT8000-HB 1 GENERAL DUTIES AND SAFETY FOR TRACK WORKERS ISSUE 9. COMPLIANCE DATE 06/12/2025
Purpose:- This handbook is for those personnel who need to go on the operational railway to carry out their duties, with the exception of a train driver, guard, shunter, signaller, crossing keeper or designated person (DP). Changes:- The definition of ‘the lineside’ in section 1 has been changed to refer to the ‘boundary’ rather than ‘boundary fence’ as there is not always a fence. A new section 6.2 has been added which includes general instructions for reporting a dangerous goods incident. The instructions are based on those added to GERT8000-G1 ‘General safety responsibilities and personal track safety for non-track workers’. The addition of 6.2 has resulted in an expansion of the title of section 6 to ‘Reporting an accident or dangerous goods incident.’ Section 10 on ‘Limited clearance signs’ has been revised as it is not correct to state that no-one must enter or stand at the location when a train is approaching. The risk applies throughout the time that any trains are running and the wording has been changed to state that this is the meaning of the sign.
GERT8000-HB3 DUTIES OF THE LOOKOUT AND SITE WARDEN ISSUE 4. COMPLIANCE DATE 06/12/2025
Purpose:- This handbook is for those personnel who have duties of the lookout and site warden. Changes:- Changes have been made to the situations in which unassisted lookouts can be used as a safe system of work, and this handbook has been amended to reflect those changes. Section 4 has been revised to state that site lookouts cannot be used during darkness, poor visibility or when in or near a tunnel. In the same section, reference to the lookout’s view becoming ‘blocked’ has been changed to ‘obscured’ to explain in more simple language that this refers to both stationary and moving obstructions.
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Sections 6 and 7 have been withdrawn as the use of distant and intermediate lookouts is no longer permitted. Also, section five has been revised to remove reference to distant and intermediate lookouts. Reference to ‘pee wee’ has been removed as it is no longer used. Reference to the obsolete competency of safe work leader has been removed from sections three, four and five.
GERT8000-HB 5 HANDSIGNALLING DUTIES ISSUE 3. COMPLIANCE DATE 06/12/2025
Purpose:- This handbook is for those personnel who carry out handsignalling duties. Changes :- Single line working rules for trains in the wrong direction have been updated in line with the industry move to reduce detonator use. An ‘end of degraded working’ sign now replaces the handsignaller at the exit of the single line section. A signaller's agent will be positioned to observe the sign and any trains passing it. The signaller’s agent must act if a train passes the sign without authority. There is no longer a requirement to place a detonator on the rails at this location. Handsignallers remain necessary when dividing a single line working section and are now referred to as ‘intermediate handsignallers’. Following the introduction of extended block working, temporary block working has been removed from GERT8000-S5. Consequently, all references to temporary block working have been removed from this document.
GERT8000-HB 7 GENERAL DUTIES OF A CONTROLLER OF SITE SAFETY (COSS) ISSUE 10. COMPLIANCE DATE 06/12/2025
Purpose:- This handbook is for those personnel who have the general duties of a controller of site safety (COSS) Changes:- Section 5.1 ‘Before starting to walk with a group’ has been changed to state that lookouts cannot be used as a safe system of work. Section 6.1 A new instruction added ‘Remaining with your group’ giving more detail on observing the group. In the same section, there is a new instruction concerning members not leaving the group to work as a separate group until under the supervision of another COSS. Changes have also been made to the situations in which unassisted lookouts can be used as a safe system of work, and this handbook has been amended to reflect those changes. Safety Newsletter - Vital | 13
Section 6.8 ‘Safe system of work using lookouts (lookout warning)’ has been revised in several places: The conditions for using lookouts have been strengthened. References to distant and intermediate lookouts have been removed, as they can no longer be used. The definition of an approaching train has been revised as a result of the limitations on which lines a train can approach on. Calculation of the required warning time has been simplified as distant and intermediate lookouts can no longer be used. The ‘Aid to working out warning times’ has been amended, as distant and intermediate lookouts can no longer be used, and an emergency or temporary speed restriction can no longer be taken into account. A new sentence has been added to explain that the sighting distance charts include speeds in excess of 25 mph as these may be required when equipment warning is to be used. GERT8000-HB9 IWA OR COSS SETTING UP A SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK WITHIN POSSESSIONS ISSUE 9 COMPLIANCE DATE 06/12/2025
Purpose:- You will need this handbook if you carry out the duties of an IWA or COSS setting up safe systems of work within possessions. Changes:- The handbook has been changed throughout to remove reference to the obsolete competency of safe work leader. Rules concerning walking on or near the line published in September 2024 resulted in changes to the numbering of sections in Handbooks 6 and 7. As a result, cross-references in this handbook at sections 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5 have been changed. This has been previously published in the Periodical Operating Notice. Section 3.9, ‘When protection from the ES is no longer required’, the requirement to sign the work site certificate RT3199 has been removed. Instead, the engineering supervisor must record the details on the work-site certificate. These changes form part of the suite of general updates issued annually which are intended to improve understanding and application of the content of the Rule Book and provide opportunities for duty holders to operate more efficiently. Changes have also been made to the situations in which unassisted lookouts can be used as a safe system of work, and this handbook has been amended to reflect those changes. Section 3.7 on ‘Safe system of work using lookouts’ within a worksite has been withdrawn as this is no longer permitted. The subsequent sections (3.8 to 3.11 in issue 8.1) have been renumbered following the removal of section 3.7. Section 4.3 on ‘Working without the PICOP's authority’ outside a worksite has been withdrawn as this method of working is no longer permitted. Safety Newsletter - Vital | 14
GERT8000-HB12 DUTIES OF THE ENGINEERING SUPERVISOR ISSUE 1. COMPLIANCE DATE 06/12/2025
Purpose:- You will need this handbook if you carry out the duties of the ES in a possession. Changes:- Section 3.3 on ‘Setting up the work site’ has been changed as the ES is now permitted to allow an isolation COSS to start work in connection with ac method isolation duties before the work site is set up. RT3199. The requirement to sign the work site certificate RT3199 upon giving up the work site has been withdrawn. Section 10.1 ‘Normal arrangements’ and section 10.3 ‘When every COSS or IWA no longer needs protection’ have been changed as a result. These changes form part of the suite of general updates issued annually which are intended to improve understanding and application of the content of the Rule Book and provide opportunities for duty holders to operate more efficiently. Changes have also been made to the situations in which unassisted lookouts can be used as a safe system of work, and this handbook has been amended to reflect those changes. As a result, section 4.7 on ‘Safe system of work using lookouts (lookout warning)’ has been withdrawn as this is no longer permitted.
GERT8000-HB19 WORK ON SIGNALLING EQUIPMENT - DUTIES OF THE SIGNALLING TECHNICIAN 6 ISSUE 6. COMPLIANCE DATE 06/12/2025
Purpose:- You will need this handbook if you carry out the duties of a signalling Technician. Changes:- In section 5.1 ‘Before starting work on the failure’, the wording has been changed to balance that in GERT8000-TS11 ‘Failure of, or work on, signalling equipment signallers' regulations’ to make it clear that the signalling technician is only operating the points as an interim measure.
GERT8000 TRACKWORKERS MANUAL ISSUE 15. Purpose:- RSSB has produced this manual to provide end-users with access to the content of GERT8000 (The Rule Book) that is relevant to all roles who carry out activities on or near the line, including pilot, route-setting agent, level crossing attendant, person in charge of loading and unloading, staff who set up speed restrictions etc as defined in the Rule Book. Changes:- Up dated to reflect the changes to handbooks.
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Network Rail standards update NR/L2/CTM/021 COMPETENCE AND TRAINING IN TRACK WORKER SAFETYISSUE 5 & NR/BS L1/383 IS NOW WITHDRAWN. COMPLIANCE DATE 06/09/2025
Purpose:- This business process confirms that individuals that go on or near the line are competent, capable, and confident on the Network Rail managed infrastructure. Changes:- The competence requirements for each competence are written as linear statements in process order of undertaking the roles. Lookout competence has changed to reflect the reduced application of the role, in future a site Lookout will be allowed only to specific circumstances. Anyone requiring or to continue holding the competence will require company director approval. Site Warden competence is now separated from Lookout as a standalone competence. COSS competence has been split, there are two versions one for the ability to set up a safe system of work using a Lookout and one who will not be able to. There are new routes to competence for Network Rail and the Supply Chain as they have different competence management processes. These are written in a linear format in process order. The requirement for an individual to record competence use in paper logbooks is removed, this will be done in the Sentinel app that already exists. The PICOP and SPICOP competence have been removed from this version of the standard, the competencies ownership has transferred to the system operator.
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Safety alerts
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SAFETY ALERT
UK/SA/2025/004 28 October 2025
Vehicle Fire
A BalfourBeatty Ford Transit Crew cab tipper recently experienced a cab fire thatrequired Fire Services intervention. Two colleagues received minor burns. The vehicle sustained damage beyond repair. The investigation into this incident is ongoing. The engine batteries of Ford Transits are in a compartment underneath the front passenger’s seat(s). This is commonplace across vehicle manufacturers. The batteries are typically located in this area to optimise weight distribution and reduce fire risk should a vehicle sustain a front-end collision. Another reason is to remove heat transfer from the engine to the battery. Post-incident checks on similar vehicles have identified foreign objects such as cutting discs, road marking aerosol cans, PPE and other items under the seats, between the base of the seat and the battery compartment. This introduces the risk of poor air circulation around the batteries, but more importantly, metallic objects connecting with the battery terminals could cause heat and flames. In this situation, the introduction of accelerants, such as the aerosol can discovered jammed between the battery box and the seat (pictured on the left), could hugely increase the risk of a short circuit and lead to a fire incident.
Action required All drivers are required to: avoid stowing any items under the cab seats unless these are in a designated manufacturer storage box. use toolchests, lockers on the sides of vehicles, racking, draws or shelving or draws in the load area of the vehicle.
Lee Hewitt UK Health, Safety & Wellbeing Director
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OFFICIAL
Kirow Crane Accident Issued to:
Scotland’s Railway colleagues & Principal Contractor’s
Ref:
SRL 25-07L
Date of issue:
01/12/2025
Location:
Contact:
Wemyss Bay Junction, Scotland Sandra McNeil, Safety Improvement Specialist
Overview On Saturday 15th March 2025 at 20:37 a serious incident took place on a Rail Systems Alliance Scotland track renewals site. The incident involved colleagues working with and around Kirow Cranes. During the works, two colleague were injured when they were struck by a wagon attached to a Kirow crane that subsequently came into contact with the boom of another Kirow crane that was undertaking lifting operations.
During this incident, one colleague sustained minor injuries, another required hospital treatment for a serious arm injury, and two colleagues were treated for shock. Please watch the Kirow Crane Accident video for more information and discuss with your teams. Scotland's Railway SRL 25-07L Kirow Crane Accident Learning video.mp4
Key Message 1. Watch the video. 2. Follow the facilitators guide for team safety conversations
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OFFICIAL
FACILITATOR’S GUIDE Purpose of the Session Toreflect on learning from a serious incident where workers were struck by moving plant, and to explore whether everyday behaviours, communication, planning and site standards align with best practice. This session focuses on awareness, habits and prevention, not blame.
1. Opening After watching the video. Discuss: What stands out when hearing that two people were struck by plant during a planned operation?
2. Setting the Scene: Why Best Practice Matters
Explorewhich areas (planning,comms,positioning,exclusionzones, competence) are most at risk of drifting on a busy site.
3. Theme 1 – Condition & Safety Features of Plant
Discuss whether plantisalwayschecked,defectsarereported,and if safety features are relied upon or ignored.
4. Theme 2 – Competence & Role Clarity Discuss whetherroles everbluron site,whetherunauthorised operations happen, and whether people feel confident challenging.
5. Theme 3 – Planning, Lift Control & Changing Conditions Discusshowoften planningdriftsonceworkbegins,andwhetherteamsstop to re-plan when conditions change.
6. Theme 4 – Exclusion Zones & Safe Positioning Discusstherespectofexclusionzonesandthereasonspeoplemaystand close to plant.
7. Theme 5 – Communications & Movement Control Discussadherencetocommsequipmentandprotocols,doweallfollow good practices?
8. Theme 6 – Safe Systems of Work & Site Discipline Discuss sitelayout, clutter,safewalkingroutes,lighting,andarrangements. Are they always as good as they could be?
Closing Reflection Reflectonthediscussion and commit to one improvement as a team.
Part of our group of Safety Bulletins
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Toolbox Talk Works Delivery – Environment & Sustainability
Winter Hibernation Period Introduction Hibernation is a survival strategy used by some species to survive the food scarcity and winter weather. Some species which are protected through the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 can be more susceptible to disturbance, injury or death due to hibernation. Hibernation in the UK starts typically runs from November to March/April but this is dependent on temperature thresholds. Winter working measures should be planned and implemented in advance of the hibernation period to manage risk effectively and provide mitigations.
On-site Management Onsitepreparation priortothe start of hibernationcanhelpreducetheriskof encountering species on site. •
•
Vegetation Clearance – The optimalperiodforvegetationclearance is October to mid-November, after the nesting bird season and beforehibernationbegins.Duringthehibernation period, vegetation clearance must follow a phased approach andstopat150mmabovegroundlevel to allow species to disperse. Where possible, vegetation below 150 mmshouldbeleftinplace;ifremoval is required, a check for small mammals, reptiles and amphibiansisrequiredbyatrainedecological representative. Tree stumps must not be removed until temperatures exceed9°C.Allclearedvegetationmust be removed from site immediately unless being used for permanenthibernaculacreation.
Hibernacula Relocation and Removal – Hibernaculamustnotbe removed during the hibernation period, including any days whentemperaturesfallbelow9°C.Ifrelocation or removal is unavoidable, it must be carried out under supervisionbyacompetentecologicalrepresentative. This includes any features with potential for shelter, such as treeswithbatroostpotential,logorbrush piles, windthrow, and leaf piles etc.
•
Newt Fencing – if potential foramphibiansand/orreptileshasbeen
•
Housekeeping – Sites should be kepttidyandanystockpiles,earth
•
Bog mats – remove bog mats prior tohibernation.Ifuseisnecessary
identified for site; any new fencingshouldbeinstalledpriorto hibernation season, existing fencingshouldbecheckedfordamageand maintained or removed (if in hibernationhabitatse.grockyground,logs, earth banks) prior to hibernation. Removeanypitfallsortraps. bunds, materials, pallets kept weather-proofandcontained. during hibernation these must be checkedregularlyforspecies.
DO ✓
ensure an ecological survey andsitesurveyare
completed priortoworks starting.
✓ Follow requirements of NR/L3/MTC/RCS0216/SP21 ✓follow the unexpected finds procedure and contact HSE if any species are suspected on site. pre pare the worksite for hibernation.
DON’T X Removepotential hibernacula without ecological supervision.
X Undertakevegetation clearance without adhering to the winterworking guidance.
X Leave materials and debris around the worksite.
✓
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OFFICIAL
Specified RIDDOR - Plant Overturn Incident Issuedto:
Scotland’s Railway Colleagues and Principal Contractors
Ref:
SRX 25-01L
Date of issue:
17/11/2025
Location:
Keith, Moray
Contact:
Rebecca Russell, Health and Safety Manager
Overview On Thursday 13th November 2025, a plant operator was carrying out compaction works using a twin-drum roller to form a new permanent bell-mouth access on the A95 Banff Road in Keith. During the task, the roller overturned over the edge of the access road formation. As it tipped, the operator’s left ankle became trapped between the roll bar and the ground.
The injured colleague was freed by the site team, emergency services were called, and they were taken to hospital for treatment, where it was confirmed they had suffered fractures to their ankle and leg. Following the incident, operations at the site were suspended and an investigation has commenced.
Discussion Points Always assess ground conditions and stability before operating plant near edges or slopes. Always use the correct type of plant for the task. Ensure pre-start briefings include specific risks around overturn potential and emergency arrangements.
Always keep plant a safe distance from unprotected edges. Always use physical protection (e.g. barriers and bunds) wherever possible. Always use the machine’s safety features (e.g. seat belt, roll-over protection, etc)
Part of our group of Safety Bulletins
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OFFICIAL
Cable Strikes Issued to:
Scotland’s Railway Colleagues and Principal Contractors
Ref:
SRL 25-06L
Date of issue:
31/10/2025
Location:
Scotland’s Railway
Contact:
Rebecca Russell, Health & Safety Manager
Overview In the past year, 36 events have been reported across Scotland’s Railway involving damage to buried or overhead cables during work activities. These occurred during tasks such as piling, excavation, vegetation clearance, and on-track plant (OTP) operations. While no injuries were reported, nearly half of the incidents resulted in a loss of signalling, lighting, or power, and all carried the potential for serious harm or operational disruption. Most involved electrical or signalling cables, particularly during vegetation clearance or Road Rail Vehicle (RRV) activities.
Common contributing factors included inaccurate or incomplete service information, inadequate on-site verification, and incorrect use of cable avoidance equipment. These events highlight the importance of accurate information, thorough verification, and full compliance with Network Rail’s Permit to Break Ground process. Although 11 cables were later confirmed as redundant, each event still required attendance from our maintenance teams, causing delay and disruption to planned works.
Key Messages Alwaysplanandverify before you dig or slew. Never start excavation orvegetation clearance untilall buriedand overhead services are identified, physically verified and fully understood. Ensure equipment is fit for purpose. Always check that cable detection tools are working correctly and calibrated before use.
Follow the defined process every time. Don’tassume previouschecks are stillvalid as conditions can change from day today. Supervise and challenge. Supervisorsmust monitor the work and stop it immediatelyif conditions change or if controls are notbeing followed.
Part of our group of Safety Bulletins
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Charities & support services If you or someone you know is struggling, there are many organisations that offer free, confidential support: Andy’s Man Club – A men’s mental health support group providing peer-to-peer conversations in a safe space. Lighthouse Charity – Supporting the mental health and well-being of construction and rail workers. Call UK: 0345 605 1956, ROI: 1800 939 122, or text HARD HAT to 85258 (UK) or 50808 (ROI). Samaritans – 24/7 helpline offering emotional support for those in distress: Call 116 123. Mind – Mental health charity providing advice and support for those experiencing difficulties. Get urgent help CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Focused on suicide prevention, particularly in men: Call 0800 58 58 58. Rethink Mental Illness – Offering advice, services, and support groups for those living with mental illness. Mental health matters just as much as physical health. If you are struggling, know that help is available, and you are not alone. Take the first step—talk to someone, reach out to a support group, or seek professional advice. Small steps can lead to big changes in your well-being.
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Office locations Manchester (Head Office) T: 0161 836 7000 E: HeadOffice@vital.uk.com
Abercynon T: 01443 809 950 E: Abercynon@vital.uk.com
Ashford T: 01233 344 6443 E: Ashford@vital.uk.com
The Mill, South Hall Street, off Ordsall Lane, Salford, Manchester, M5 4TP
F3-F5 Ty Cynon, Navigation Park, Abercynon, CF45 4SN
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Bellshill T: 01698 840 950 E: BellshillRail@vital.uk.com
Birmingham T: 0121 809 3010 E: Birminghamrail@vital.uk.com
Bristol T: 01172 332 256 E: Pmwestern@vital.uk.com
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Crewe T: 01270 906 130 E: Crewe@vital.uk.com
Derby T: 01332 982 470 E: Derby@vital.uk.com
Doncaster T: 01302 244450 E: Doncasterrail@vital.uk.com
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First Floor Offices, Carr House, Heavens Walk, Doncaster, DN4 5HZ
Doncaster DNR T: 01302 496 550 E: ThorpeHouse@vital.uk.com
Farnham T: 01252 964 020 E: Farnham@vital.uk.com
London T: 0203 963 5080 E: CanningTown@vital.uk.com
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