40864 Foul smell at Cowlairs maintenance depot

March 2010 in Network Rail and Suppliers

Equipment Work environment Scotland

A reporter raises an issue about a foul smell in the changing area at Cowlairs maintenance depot, Glasgow. Using the area is very unpleasant as the stench can be sickening. The depot has had this problem since it was built last year and is of common concern to those using the area. Although various reasons have been given as to why the problem exists, a solution has not yet been found.

Could Network Rail determine what is causing the unpleasant smell and take steps to resolve the problem?

Response from Network Rail

Network Rail would like to thank the reporter for bringing their concerns to our attention.

This has been a problem with a smell coming from certain drains since the building became occupied and one we have been dealing with. This report was raised by staff that have only just been re-located at Cowlairs and are maybe not aware of the work we have been doing to address this issue.

The issues emanate from the "wet floor‟ drainage installed in what is in effect a "dry room‟. Consequently the "U bend", which is designed to constantly have water in it, to act as a trap to stop any smells coming out, dries out and a smell emanates from the drain.

It is incumbent on the cleaning staff pouring disinfectant down the drains every other day, which is now happening and the smell has disappeared.

A long term solution of capping the drains is being investigated but in the meantime staff should report any smell issues to the facilities management team.