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A safety net when all else fails

50948 ‘Insufficient’ lighting at Hoo junction Up yard

September 2012 in Freight Operations

tagged Fatigue Training and briefing Work environment South East

Concerns have been raised about the lighting at Hoo junction Up yard.
According to the reporter, the lighting towers that were originally used to provide lighting have not been working for the last eight years. This means that staff are unable to see where they are walking at night, causing a slip, trip, fall hazard which is a particular concern during the winter months as it gets darker quicker.

As a short-term solution a diesel generator was hired. However, the diesel has run out, and procedure requires that only a competent person can refill the generator during the day. The reporter comments that although staff have raised this issue with management several times within the last month, no action has been taken to refill the generator.

Could DB Schenker:

  • Consider a long-term solution to the problem such as repairing the lighting towers?
  • Ensure that the current arrangements are working effectively?

 Response from DB Schenker

DB Schenker (DBS) thanks the reporter for raising their safety concerns.

DBS are responsible for the maintenance of the yard lighting at Hoo. To date there has been only one tower out of action, and this received a full overhaul during May 2012. All towers are now functional and are part of the building and infrastructure maintenance program. Whilst this tower was out of action a portable set was supplied.  

The issue has been discussed with local management and it seems that no concerns were raised with regard to fuelling. However, going forward if there is a need to re-introduce a tower light, the Production Supervisors will be trained to refuel the tanks. The lighting levels at the depot meet the ten lux minimum requirement and additionally, headlights for all staff were provided.

 50948