Welcome
When safety messages go unsaid: The Challenger Disaster 1986
Work Safe, Home Safe / HSQE Team
Safety Recognition Award
Operational awareness in action
Promoting safety through collaboration, faults & incidents
The importance of Network Rail Life Saving Rules
Stay safe in the sun
Summer driving tips
Wordsearch challenge
Safety alerts
Charities & support services
Office locations Jun2025
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Because unclear communication doesn’t just cause confusion it creates risk
This month, I want to talk about something we do all day, every day without even thinking about it: talking to each other.
Whether it’s during a site brief, a quick phone call, or a check-in before a task How often do we assume we’ve been understood, instead of confirming it?
We’ve all been there:
A nod… a “yeah mate”… a distracted “got it”…
But was the message clear? Was it heard properly? Did it land the way it needed to?
In safety-critical moments, assumption is dangerous. Clarity is what protects us.
This isn’t about how loud you speak or how fast the job’s moving it’s about making sure nothing gets lost, left out, or misheard
We don’t need radios to miscommunicate.
Most of the time, it’s the face-to-face stuff that catches us out
A rushed briefing.
A hand signal that gets misread.
A phone call with background noise.
The issue is, we often don’t realise the message didn’t land until something goes wrong
Clear communication isn’t about ticking a box. It’s about taking responsibility for what we say, how we say it, and making sure others really get it
Something to think about: Do I check for understanding or just expect it?
Have I ever nodded along, even when I wasn’t sure what was said?
What one thing could I do to make my instructions or conversations clearer?
Would I speak the same way if I knew someone’s safety depended on it?
Let’s not just talk about safety.
Let’s communicate like safety depends on it because it does.
Stay switched on. Stay clear. Stay safe. Adam Jones, Head of Safety
We often think communication failures happen only on the ground. But one of the most tragic safety failures in history happened 73 seconds after launch.
On 28 January 1986, NASA’s Challenger space shuttle broke apart mid-air. Seven astronauts died. The cause? A component known as the O-ring failed in the cold weather.
The issue was known by engineers the night before launch But the message the warning never reached decision-makers with the clarity and force it needed.
Why?
Engineers raised concerns but not loudly enough. Managers downplayed the risk.
No one said “Stop. “
The pressure to move forward was stronger than the discomfort of pushing back. What's that got to do with us?
Because in rail just like in space the culture around communication matters just as much as the content
People didn’t die because no one knew. They died because what people knew wasn’t clearly said, strongly backed, or properly heard.
So something to think about:
Have I ever held back from speaking up just to avoid tension?
Do I push back when something feels wrong even if the job is under pressure?
Do I give others space to raise concerns, or do I just want to get moving?
Clear communication isn’t just words it’s courage. To speak up. To clarify. To challenge. And to make sure we never look back thinking, "I should’ve said something.”
What do we mean by Work Safe, Home Safe?
We mean that we are fit and prepared for work We work safely with our colleagues and follow the rules We go home in a safe condition, free from harm
How do we go about it?
We follow 5 Brilliant Basics
1 Be fit and ready for work, physically and mentally
2 Always follow the rules – no short cuts
3.If unsure, Take Five, stop work and ask
4.If anything is unsafe, Take Five, stop work and report
5 Treat each day like Day 1, do not be complacent
What are we doing behind the scenes to make us successful at what we do?
1 We put people at the centre of what we do
2.We analyse mistakes very rigorously
3 We try to create an open atmosphere where everyone can speak up
4 We are willing to fix what is wrong if it is under our control
5 We relentlessly pursue new work and new opportunities
6 We never give in to complacency
My Idea
HSQEDirector
GarethMorris,Morson International-Manchester
GarethMorris@morsoncom 07736657039
Head of Safety
To be in with the chance to with £100 worth of gift vouchers, email us your ideas at: HSQE
Adam Jones
Adam Jones@vital uk com
07717 306 852
HealthandSafetyAccidentand InvestigationLead JaneHepburn
JaneHepburn@vitalukcom 07717306797
HSEAdviserandSafetyUnit
KeithWright
KeithWright@vitalukcom 07717306775
HSEAdviserandSafetyUnit(South)
AlexWilson-Cardiff,Farnham,Milton Keynes(South)andCanningTown
AlexWilson@vitalukcom 07717306811
Health and Safety Champion
Leon Richards
Leon Richards@vital uk com
How would you improve safety?
What are your ideas for innovation?
What would you change?
MYIDEA@VITALUKCOM
“It just didn’t feel right – so we stopped ”
That was the call made by Alex Wilson, a Team Leader at Vital During a routine pre-work assessment, Alex and his team spotted three key hazards:
Steep banking
High winds
Overhead risks
Even with equipment checked and access routes briefed; the conditions simply weren’t safe enough So, Alex made the right call – he invoked the Work Safe Procedure. He paused the work, picked up the phone, and had an open and honest conversation with the Network Rail supervisor. Together, they agreed to stand the job down. No pressure. No second guessing. Just the right decision, made for the right r
What happened next?
The risk was removed before a single task began
The team felt confident in stopping work without fear of blame
Everyone went home safe
And the message was clear: It’s OK to stop
To everyone reading this – please remember: You are never alone in making a safety decision
If something doesn’t feel right, speak up
Taking five minutes to reassess, raise a concern, or start a conversation could prevent something far more serious
Stopping work isn't a weakness – it’s leadership
It shows strength, responsibility, and care for those around you
We’re incredibly proud of Alex for showing exactly what good safety leadership looks like in real time As a small thank you, we ’ ve awarded him an Amazon voucher for stepping up and setting the right example Let’s follow that lead
If it’s not safe – stop �� Talk Reassess
That’s how we build a safer, stronger culture – one decision at a time
An excellent example of proactive safety behaviour demonstrated byAlex He displayed an appropriate attitude to riskwhen confronted with an unsafe environment and decisively acted His actions positively reflect the safety message Vital encourage and support during face-to-face management interactions.
DavidAdams,Associate Director
During a mid-week possession Jack was visited by a member of the Vital Workforce Engagement team, Jack demonstrated excellent situational awareness and initiative while working with the PICOP After confirming site presence and blocking locations, he was advised of a change in the plan and required to place protection at a different access point than originally agreed
Jack followed the revised instruction, confirmed the details, and ensured everything was in order before continuing Taking 5 to ensure everything was correctly in place understood and could be achieved safely
During the onsite communications with the PICOP regarding a train that would be travelling through the possession at his working locations Jack referred to the Weekly Operating Notice (WON) to identify where the train was coming from, what line it would use, and the nature of the movement and was able to show a complete understanding of the risks at his site location His proactive approach ensured there were no surprises and reinforced a safe working environment
"We always check the WON, but this reminded me how valuable it is to raise any planned train movements during the initial on-site call It gives everyone time to understand the full picture " – Jack
His actions are a strong reminder of the importance of clear communication, vigilance, and ownership of safetycritical information.
As Jack rightly said to our workforce engagement champion "Rail is all about teamwork, getting the job done properly without cutting corners, and making sure you fully understand the task before heading out "
Jack also took the opportunity to recognise a colleague, Gary Spencer, who supports teams across the South Gary’s willingness to help others and his positive attitude are appreciated across the board
We would like to recognise Jackfor his attention to detail and proactive thinking and safety-first mindset whilst out on the infrastructure.Jack is a example to us all and shows maturity,technical knowledge, and strong potential as a future safety champion withing Vital Human Resources
A successful site visit with Southern Renewals Enterprise.
John Terry – Regional Account Manager, Vital Human Resources
“Vital recently had the privilege of coordinating another successful site visit in partnership with the Southern Renewals Enterprise This visit placed a strong focus on health and safety, with support from our dedicated Health and Safety unit I was joined by colleague Keith Wright as well as representatives from our H&S team to help deliver key safety messaging on-site
A central feature of the visit was a hands-on presentation on manual handling a vital topic across our workforce The session was wellreceived, with strong engagement from Vital operatives, reinforcing our commitment to proactive safety education and culture
We were also honoured to present to SID Director Liz Baldwin during the session, following a comprehensive site tour that included Network Rail Chief Executive Andrew Haines and Southern Region Managing Director Dave Hooper BSc CDir FIoD The tour allowed for valuable discussions around site safety practices, upcoming opportunities, and the importance of continued collaboration in improving safety outcomes A sincere thank you to Paul Connor for his support in making the visit a success
These types of engagements not only enhance operational understanding but are fundamental in ensuring that every team member goes home safe at the end of each day
Well done to all involved your commitment to safety excellence is making a real difference ”
The Network Rail Life Saving Rules are a set of critical safety principles designed to prevent serious injuries and fatalities across the rail industry. They are not just procedural guidelines they are life-preserving commitments every rail worker must follow to protect themselves, their colleagues, and the public The rules are based on lessons learned from past incidents and highlight behaviours and practices proven to significantly reduce risk
The Ten Life Saving Rules & Requirements for Adherence
Working responsibly
1 Always ensure the required plans and permits are in place, before you start work on or near the line
Do you have the required permissions to start work
Is there a Safe system of work in place
Have you received the required briefs prior to starting work
2 Always use equipment that is fit for purpose
Inspect tools before use
Do not use damaged or unapproved equipment
Report defects immediately
3 Never undertake any job unless you have been trained and assessed as competent
Ensure you hold the relevant certification or training
Do not perform tasks beyond your level of competence
Speak up if unsure.
4.Never work or drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Comply with random and for-cause testing
Be aware of the effects of prescription medication
Maintain a zero-tolerance approach
Driving
1 Never use a handheld or hands-free phone or programme any other devices whilst driving
Ensure you disconnect all calls or teams’ meetings prior to starting to drive
2 Always obey the speed limit and wear a seat belt
Adhere to all speed limits, on-site and on road/Motorways
Always wear a seatbelt, regardless of distance
Avoid rushing or cutting corners
Working with Electricity
1 Always test before applying earths or straps
Follow safe isolation procedures.
Use approved testing devices. Confirm absence of voltage before work begins
2 Never assume equipment is Isolated
Working at Height
1 Always use a safety harness when working at height, unless other protection is in place
Undertake equipment checks to ensure to breaks or split in harness equipment
Ensure equipment the equipment is correctly calibrate within the required timescales
Working with moving equipment
1 Never enter the agreed exclusion zone, unless given permission by person in charge
Ensure you have the required permission/authorisation to enter an exclusion zone
Know what areas are considered high risk
Understand the physical barriers or markings that define the exclusion one
Conclusion
Adhering to the Life Saving Rules is a nonnegotiable aspect of working in the rail industry, each rule has been developed from real incidents where lives were lost or nearly lost, we all have a responsibility to understand, follow, and uphold these rules, because lives, reputations, and future work depend on it
May is skin cancer awareness month. So let’s look at the types of cancer, risk factors and how to prevent it.
What is skin cancer?
There are several types of cancer that may start in the skin They can be split into 2 groups depending on the cell they develop from: melanoma non-melanoma, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
Melanoma skin cancers
Melanoma skin cancers include superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, lentigo maligna melanoma and acral lentiginous melanoma These types develop from skin cells called melanocytes We have separate information about melanoma It is treated differently to non-melanoma skin cancers
Non-melanoma skin cancers
Non-melanoma skin cancers include basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
BCC is the most common type of skin cancer in the UK It starts in skin cells called basal cells SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer in the UK It develops from the squamous cell layers of the skin
Skin cancer symptoms
Skin cancers can vary in how they look. Always make an appointment with your GP if you have: a new or changing mole any other unusual or unexplained skin changes an itch or sore that will not go away
It might help to take a photograph of anything unusual, so you can check for any changes Remember that there are many other skin conditions that are not cancer, especially in older people
Skin cancer risk factors
The biggest risk factor for skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet light (UV light) This can be through sunlight, or indoor tanning devices such as sunbeds
What can I do to prevent skin cancer?
The best protection is to cover up and be safe in the sun It’s important to check your skin regularly and tell your GP if you notice any unexplained skin changes Using sunbeds or sunlamps also increases your risk of developing skin cancer These devices use high levels of the same harmful UV radiation found in sunlight They are not recommended by healthcare professionals except for specific skin conditions where UV therapy can be used as a prescribed treatment
How can I be safe in the sun?
You can protect your skin by wearing the right clothing, staying in the shade and using suncream Soltan and Macmillan recommend 5* UVA with at least an SPF 30 Usually, the instructions are to reapply every 2 hours, or more often if you have been swimming or exercising Drink plenty of water Cover up with a hat and long sleeves Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.
Wear UV blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes. In the UK, sun damage to the skin is most likely between 11am and 3pm between March and October But sunlight can be strong enough to cause sunburn at other times of the day and year, and sometimes even on cloudy days Do not use a sunbed or sunlamp If it is important for you to look tanned, use fake tan lotions or sprays
Source: macmillan org
The holiday season can mean high temperatures, increased stress levels and extra demands on your car – so here are our seasonal tips to help with the challenges of summer driving
If your tyres are already damaged or they're at the wrong pressure, the higher temperatures of summer will increase the risk of a blowout Make sure you check tyres regularly – for condition and pressures –and increase pressures to suit extra loads, as advised in your handbook
Cooling systems are under more strain in high temperatures, so issues are more likely to be exposed when it’s hot. It’s important to check the coolant regularly to avoid overheating. It’s not just the car that can overheat, so it’s important to keep kids, pets and yourself cool in the car in summer. You can do this in the following ways:
Put a sun shield over the back windows – this will help keep the sun off the passengers in the back of the car and will keep some of the heat out
Have iced water in the car – this will help keep all passengers refreshed and hydrated throughout the drive
Use the air conditioning – driving with the A/C on will help keep the internal temperature of the car nice and cool
Try to park in the shade – if you stop along your drive, try to find a shady parking spot to avoid the sun heating up the car
Use a windscreen shade when parked because most of the heat enters the car through the glass
Dazzle from the sun can reduce visibility, but you can lessen the effect by keeping your windscreen nice and clean Replace worn or damaged windscreen wipers to keep your screen clear It also pays to keep a clean pair of sunglasses in your car year-round
It’s not safe to drive tired If you do feel tired, stop in a safe place and take a break
It’s best to avoid getting tired in the first place if you can Try these tips:
Include a 20-minute break in journeys of more than 3 hours
On longer trips, take a break every couple of hours
Take several short stops (of at least 20 minutes) rather than one long one
Don’t drink alcohol or eat a heavy meal before driving
Pedestrians and cyclists
In warmer weather, you ' re more likely to encounter cyclists and pedestrians out and about on the roads Driving at a safe speed and removing any distractions while driving will help you be aware of your surroundings. This also means you’ll be able to react in time should you encounter vulnerable road users.
Download the free what3words app
Ensure you have water for all passengers, including your pets (make sure you have a bowl for pets to drink out of) Also have some snacks on hand in case of a breakdown
Have a first aid kit in your car, as well as mobile phone chargers
Take hats and sun cream in case you breakdown in an area with little or no shade
Source: AA
Test your knowledge of key safety terms with this interactive wordsearch! From PPE to Safe Systems of Work, see how many safety buzzwords you can find. A fun way to refresh your awareness while staying sharp on site essentials
Just click the link and then the start button to begin! https://www.educaplay.com/learning-resources/24232321-vhrl_safety_search.html
Ifyou or someone you know is struggling,there are many organisations that offer free, confidential support:
Andy’s Man Club – A men’s mental health support group providing peer-to-peer conversations in a safe space.
Lighthouse Charity – Supporting the mental health and well-being of construction and rail workers. Call UK: 0345 605 1956, ROI: 1800 939 122, ortext HARD HATto 85258 (UK) or 50808 (ROI).
Samaritans – 24/7 helpline offering emotional support forthose in distress: Call 116 123.
Mind – Mental health charity providing advice and support forthose experiencing difficulties. Get urgent help
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Focused on suicide prevention, particularly in men: Call 0800 58 58 58.
Rethink Mental Illness – Offering advice, services, and support groups forthose living with mental illness.
Mental health matters just as much as physical health. Ifyou are struggling, know that help is available, and you are not alone.Take the first step—talkto someone, reach out to a support group, or seek professional advice. Small steps can lead to big changes in yourwell-being.
Manchester (Head Office)
T: 0161 836 7000
E: HeadOffice@vital uk com
The Mill, South Hall Street, off Ordsall Lane, Salford, Manchester, M5 4TP
Bellshill
T: 01698 840 950
E: BellshillRail@vital uk com
10 James Street, Righead Industrial Estate, Bellshill, Lanarkshire ML4 3LU
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T: 01332 982 470
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Ground Floor, Room 30
Derwent House, RTC Business Park, Derby, DE24 8UP
Farnham
T: 01252 964 020
E: Farnham@vital uk com
Unit 10, Guildford Road Trading Estate, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 9PZ
Abercynon
T: 01443 809 950
E: Abercynon@vital uk com
G16/17 Ty Cynon, Navigation Park, Abercynon, CF45 4SN
Birmingham T: 0121 809 3010
E: birminghamrail@vital uk com
Olton Wharf
7-9 Richard Road Solihull West Midlands B92 7RN
Doncaster
T: 01302 244450
E: Doncasterrail@vital uk com
First Floor Offices, Carr House, Heavens Walk, Doncaster, DN4 5HZ
London T: 0203 963 5080
E: CanningTown@vital uk com
Unit 10, Canning Town Business Park, Stephenson Street, London, E16 4SA
Ashford
T: 01233 344 6443
E: Ashford@vital uk com
Eurogate Business Park
Ashford TN24 8XW
Crewe
T: 01270 906 130
E: Crewe@vital uk com
6 Solway Court
Crewe Business Park Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6LD
Doncaster DNR
T: 01302 496 550
E: ThorpeHouse@vital uk com
Thorpe House, Sidings Court Lakeside, Doncaster DN4 5HZ
