CIRAS at the launch of electric train operator Lumo

Stakeholder manager (north) Sue Gray found out what CIRAS member Lumo is all about, aboard its inaugural train journey.

Sue met staff from the open-access train operator Lumo, which has a fleet of all-electric AT300 intercity trains, when she travelled on its inaugural train journey to Edinburgh from King's Cross station on Thursday 21 October. Lumo's public launch is today, Monday 25 October.

We've created a joint video with Lumo that sets out why reporting matters and how to use CIRAS, and which is included as part of Lumo's safety induction.

Sue said, 'It was great to be part of the launch of this new train operator, to meet so many of the people who have pulled together to make it happen and to travel on their first ever journey to Edinburgh.

'I’ve been working with the safety team to ensure that Lumo staff know that they can choose to report health and safety concerns in complete confidence, if that way works best for them.  It’s great that Lumo are so proactive about ensuring all their staff can be heard, from the get go.'   

Lumo is owned by Aberdeen-based First Group, and CIRAS member Hitachi Rail recently built its fully electric trains.

Jim Brewin, head of UK & Ireland at Hitachi Rail, said: 'This fleet is another milestone for our North East factory, with the highest number of parts being sourced from Hitachi Rail’s UK supply chain.  Despite the initial challenges of the pandemic, Hitachi Rail has delivered these 100% electric trains on time, which is testament to the determination and resilience of everyone involved.

'Ahead of COP26, the Lumo fleet demonstrates how UK manufacturing and rail can offer a zero-emission alternative to flying and deliver green growth.'

See some of Sue's pictures below. Sue is pictured (left) with Mayor of Stevenage Councillor Sandra Barr (centre) and a Stevenage resident.