NETWORK RAIL – GSM-R BROADCASTS FOR LINE SAFETY

Our ref: HSR

Head Office Circular: NP/115/25

22^nd July 2025

To: The Secretary

All branches and Regional Councils

 

Dear Colleague

 

NETWORK RAIL – GSM-R BROADCASTS FOR LINE SAFETY

 

I write to explain that I have received a report from the Lead Officer about a Network Rail deviation to a standard request submitted at RSSB TOM SC (Rail Safety Standard Board, Traffic Operation and Management Standards Steering Committee) in May. I am concerned as to the scope and safety implications of what is being proposed in relation to the company’s intention to use additional scenarios and scripts for cautioning trains whilst they are on the move. 

 

                At its meeting on 15^th July 2025, your National Executive Committee noted and adopted the following report from its H&S subcommittee from when it met to consider both the Lead Officers report along with the paperwork for the deviation request:              

We note the paperwork on this matter and the Lead Officers report which relates to it.  Having reviewed the documentation we instruct the General Secretary to make clear that our policy on this matter is to oppose the use of GSMR for relaying safety-critical information and that such information should continue to be communicated as per the current arrangement - which is that it is live between the signaller and the driver. Working in this way of working ensures mutual understanding and immediate response.

 

In relation to this we instruct the General Secretary to write to Network Rail to ensure that:

• RMT has adequate representation in the consultation and that this includes Operations Network Rail lead safety reps, SSM's and drivers TOC & FOC reps, thereby combining expertise and frontline experience are engaged to evaluate the practical implications of the proposed changes
• Concerns as outlined in Lead Officers report are addressed, including the scope and implementation of the trial are addressed. 

Additionally, we instruct the General Secretary to approach ASLEF for a joint campaign on this. The General Secretary also to ensure that a written report is provided to this NEC at the end of the consultation period.  

 

Branches and Regional Councils to be informed accordingly. 

 

                I am acting in line with these instructions. Please bring this circular to the attention of all relevant members.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

 

 

Eddie Dempsey

General Secretary