Network Rail - Business Critical Rules Programme

Our Ref: HSR/4/2
Head Office Circular: NP/043/14
17th February 2014

The Secretary
ALL BRANCHES
ALL REGIONAL COUNCILS

Dear Colleague

NETWORK RAIL – BUSINESS CRITICAL RULES PROGRAMME

Further to Head Office Circular NP/225/13 I am writing to advise you of further developments with this case. A briefing on this matter was given to members of the General Grades Committee, Lead Union Health and Safety Representatives, Maintenance Co-ordinators and National Operations Council Representatives on 2nd October 2013. This general briefing was followed by a further briefing on the company’s specific proposals in relation to track inspection on 29th November 2013.

On giving consideration to reports on these two briefings the General Grades Committee noted and adopted the following report of their Health and Safety Sub-committee:

We note the reports on file and instruct the General Secretary to write to the company to obtain an update on this case. We further note the postponement of the trial and further instruct the General Secretary to establish what consultation there will be with the union on the trial.

We remain deeply sceptical of this process and believe that the pressure being put on the business by ORR and the impact of the CP5 budget will have a detrimental effect on our members’ safety and that of the travelling public.

Branches and Regional Councils be advised.

I am acting in accordance with these instructions and will keep you informed of developments with this case.

Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of relevant members.

Yours sincerely


Bob Crow
General Secretary