NETWORK RAIL: AIRWAVE RADIOS & NOISE DISTURBANCE/POLLUTION IN SIGNALLING CENTRES

Our ref: HSR

Head Office Circular: NP/204/24

14^th August 2024

To: The Secretary

ALL BRANCHES

REGIONAL COUNCILS

 

Dear Colleague

 

NETWORK RAIL: AIRWAVE RADIOS & NOISE DISTURBANCE/POLLUTION IN SIGNALLING CENTRES 

 

I write to inform you that I have received correspondence from the Lead Officer as regards Network Rails intention to put airwave radios in signalling centres and ROCs (rail operating centres). I am concerned that these radios will cause noise pollution and distraction leading to confusion with safety critical calls. 

 

At its meeting on 8th August 2024, your National Executive Committee noted and adopted the following report from its Health and Safety subcommittee from when it considered the Lead Officers report:

 

We note the correspondence on file and our Lead safety reps’ concerns with the safety implications of allowing the use of airwave radios on signalling operating floors. We further note that our lead health and safety rep, AJ Yates, is involved in route-based risk assessments and we instruct the General Secretary to seeks an updated report from the lead officer regarding the risk assessment process outcomes. 

 

Relevant members, Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.

 

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

 

Yours sincerely

 

Michael Lynch

General Secretary

www.rmt.org.uk/healthandsafety