Electricity is invisible. Its impact is not.

electrical-safety-campaign-promo

Electricity keeps the railway running. But it is also a silent hazard. You cannot see it, and when safety controls fail, the consequences can be devastating.

In May 2021, a linesperson working near Wolverton station suffered life-changing injuries after coming into contact with live Overhead Line Equipment (OLE). He received an electric shock of up to 25,000 volts.

The work had been rushed. The team had unknowingly moved beyond the limits of the electrical isolation. 'Test Before Touch' had not been carried out.

The incident is a stark reminder. Electrical accidents rarely happen because of one mistake. They usually result from a chain of failures.

That is why Network Rail’s electrical safety campaign is reinforcing safe behaviours across the industry. New standards, systems, and technology are helping to reduce risk. But they cannot do the job alone. Everyone has a part to play.

Electrical injuries can cause permanent disability or death. And the damage may be far more serious than it first appears. Follow the Lifesaving Rules, check equipment and permits, and speak up when something does not feel right. It can prevent a serious incident.

Electrical accidents can happen when:

  • isolation limits are not set far enough
  • the line is not properly isolated or is re-energised
  • isolation permits are not thoroughly checked
  • safety equipment is missing or incorrectly positioned
  • earthing clamps or straps are not properly applied
  • Test Before Touch doesnot happen.

Plan accurately. Wear the correct safety equipment. Check and recheck your permits. Choose to challenge. Follow the Lifesaving Rules, every time.

Ask yourself:

  • Am I following the Electrical Lifesaving Rules?
  • Do I have the right equipment and PPE — and have I checked it?
  • Would I speak up if something did not feel right?
  • What can I learn from previous incidents and near misses?

Read about Network Rail's electrical safety campaign, learn about the Electrical Lifesaving Rules, and watch the films and presentations here: https://safety.networkrail.co.uk/safety/electrical-safety/electrical-safety-campaigns/

Find out more

Network Rail: electrical safety Step Up

Network Rail electrical safety awareness campaign

Bright sparks: PPE for working with electric vehicles, with Arriva London