Some say they’ve seen nothing like it during 40 years of service. Up to 600 people are doing it each week, and 15,000 of you have already done it. What’s more, you can do it any time, anywhere and it’s free for everyone in the industry.
Network Rail’s safety critical communications training has been a big hit. Ongoing since 2005, the course has helped cut the number of incidents caused by miscommunication. In the last 12 months:
recorded operational irregularities have dropped by 746; and
recorded possession irregularities have dropped by 136.
By April, 20,000 staff will have completed the course and a further 25,000 will follow in their footsteps during the financial year 2007/8.
Network Rail’s Tony Walton has been a driving force behind the initiative. He said: “Some TOCs and contractors have been slow to get involved, but there is no logical reason not to. We can provide training at any location for free. For example, we’ve started a specific programme for EWS, training all 3,500 staff over 17 weeks at eight of their national locations.”
Feedback has been consistently positive. Mick Morley of S&T Training has worked in the industry for 40 years. He said: “I have witnessed much change and initiative, but I feel like this one may really make a difference and save lives � keep going.”
The course is based on elements of military and emergency service communications adapted for the rail industry. Elements of the course are now being incorporated into all Network Rail training programmes, including PTS and COSS.