Network Rail – Roles and Responsibilities Programme [Planning and Delivery of Safe Work/Safe Work Leader]

27th October 2015
Our Ref: HSR/4/2
Head Office Circular NP/212/15
BRANCH SECRETARY
ALL BRANCHES
ALL REGIONAL COUNCILS

Dear Colleague
Network Rail – Roles and Responsibilities Programme
[Planning and Delivery of Safe Work/Safe Work Leader]

Further to Head Office Circular, NP/191/15, 7th October 2015 the company have approached the RMT with a proposal to settle the current dispute in this matter. Network Rail have outlined a plan to “pause” the use of permits and the associated software while returning to SSOWPs. This transition will be managed over a four week period. The matter has now been considered by the General Grade Committee who have adopted the following resolution:

Further to our decision GWW 6th October 2015 we note the latest correspondence from Network Rail concerning this issue. The GGC welcomes the decision of Network Rail to “Pause” the “Proscient (IT based work Permits) and views this as a step in the right direction. However, whilst welcoming this positive step the GGC still has a number of concerns as follows:

1.    Whilst the Permit system has been paused it is our view that the training on this scheme should also be paused as there is no point in training staff when the final system is as yet unknown.

2.    In addition, it is the view of the GGC that the level of representation offered going forward is inadequate. We therefore seek increased representation to at least 3 representatives.

3.    Concerns have also been expressed by our East Midlands Representatives about the ability of the current “Implementation Team” to deliver this project. Therefore before we appoint any representatives we need assurances from Network Rail that our reps will have a full and equal role in the development of this system.

4.    Whilst we note that Network Rail wish to keep the title “Safe Work Leader” we are concerned with the statement from Network Rail that “Safe Work Leader continue to lead the work” We believe that this is conflicting statement as SWL is supposed to be a standalone position solely in charge of safety.

The General Secretary is therefore instructed to inform Network Rail of our concerns over this programme and until such time as we receive a satisfactory response we remain in dispute.

All developments to be placed back before the GGC

Relevant Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.

I am acting in accordance with these instructions and will update you on developments. Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of all relevant members.

Yours sincerely
 
Mick Cash
General Secretary