With major infrastructure projects such as HS2 driving demand, rail improvement sites across the UK are under pressure to deliver safely, efficiently and without delay.

Behind the scenes it’s the logistics, planning and safety solutions that keep everything moving.

Here are seven top tips from Paul Goossens, operations director at SafeSite Facilities, to ensure a rail improvement project stays on track.

1. Offloading made easy – even on the toughest sites

Offloading is one of the biggest challenges on rail projects. That’s why truck-mounted forklifts and crane-equipped vehicles are key to handle the most complex deliveries.

Whether it’s a narrow roadside drop or a night-time install, it’s important to coordinate every detail to ensure materials are delivered and installed without delay. Remember it can take a long time to offload from a delivery vehicle.

2. Preventing unauthorised access: people and wildlife

Rail sites should be protected with a wide range of fencing which can prevent people and animals from accessing the site.

Wildlife fencing can even prevent animals from burrowing into the site and helps to ensure the construction industry protects wildlife.  

These preventative measures are essential for safety and compliance. There are multiple options, including fencing, concrete and water-filled barriers to consider.

3. CCTV: protecting lives and reputations

Modern CCTV systems boast thermal imaging and AI detection, which provide real-time alerts and can trigger public address warnings to prevent accidents.

They can monitor site safety which can reduce the risk of accidents and deter young people and trespassers from entering a construction site.

4. Built for high winds and heavy impact

Fencing systems with ballast are designed to withstand extreme conditions, including high winds, ensuring the site remains secure even in bad weather.

Ballast blocks and crash barriers ensure stability and safety, even in exposed or high-traffic areas.

5. Planning and compliance at every stage

Every delivery must be backed by detailed documentation to ensure it goes off without a hitch.

This includes driver IDs, vehicle MOTs, training certificates and lift plans for cranes which will be used to offload.

For projects like HS2, where 24-hour booking systems and strict access routes are expected, this level of planning is essential.

6. Speed and flexibility when it matters most

It’s crucial that delivery services can meet urgent site needs, ensuring that materials and equipment are available when required to prevent site closures and work stoppages.

Choose operators close to the site which can deliver urgently needed materials within 24 hours.

Whether it’s a last-minute request to secure a dangerous area or a planned overnight install, they should be ready to respond, delivering and installing within a single shift so the team can operate safely.

7. Risk assessment and expert advice

Before any order is confirmed, a full risk assessment should be completed with advice on the safest and most efficient solution presented.

If a delivery or installation is too risky, it’s crucial to communicate this and help find a better alternative.

For more information, visit: https://www.safesitefacilities.co.uk

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