typically taking possession of rail tracks and stations out of hours, between 01:00 and 04:00 or during weekend closures, it is critical that the necessary materials are available when required. Any failure to complete work can often result in a delay of weeks or even months, whilst potentially costing thousands of pounds to secure additional possession time. Short lead times can be a challenge, so it is essential to be able to source the necessary materials at limited notice. Many contractors and construction teams will only be aware of their requirements 24-hours prior to work being undertaken, so it is important to have a dynamic procurement system to receive core and specialist items even with the tightest deadlines. Storage can also be an issue, meaning deliveries need to be made in scheduled timeslots to avoid any disruption at the rail site. It is essential, therefore, to have access to a comprehensive network with high levels of product availability to ensure that the necessary material is delivered at the appropriate time and place. This not only minimises the possibility of delivery failure, but also provides added peace of mind to the contractor and rail business.
The appropriate delivery equipment is also a consideration, as any delivery is being made to a live rail location rather than a round-the-clock construction site. Therefore, truck mounted cranes are usually required because the station or track rarely has any suitable unloading equipment, whilst larger delivery vehicles can be inappropriate dependent on the road access and entrance to a site.
Risk management
The procurement process poses considerable threats to a business in terms of corporate social responsibility (CSR), brand protection and financial performance. For example, a high profile accident can result in damaging publicity within the media, while missed deadlines can equally impact an organisation’s reputation and affect future business or prospects. In terms of health and safety compliance, Crossrail and
Network Rail both operate a zero tolerance approach to ensure that any company that flouts the rules faces serious consequences and could even be removed from existing and upcoming work. Apparently, there have been examples of
MAY/JUNE 2012 PAGE 27 Henry Williams RAIL PROFESSIONAL
MASTER.indd 27
For all your power and signalling requirements
Providing quality mechanical and electrical products and services for permanent way, signalling, electrification, power distribution, plant and depots.
• NEW Product approved Class II signalling power boxes
• Pre-fabricated REBs and Location Cases
• BR SM 440 Rails and Brackets • Various plunger/control units • Point Heating Control cubicles • DNO, FSP and Distribution Cubicles • Domino Signalman's Panel • Signalman's panel Upgrades • Fishplates and Point Clips • Treadle Switches • Level Crossings • Touch safe electrical Enclosures • Class I signalling power boxes
™ 22/05/2012 11:16:36
materials provider to the rail industry to achieve the Gold Standard of the Freight Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS). This recognises the highest levels of safety, efficiency and environmental responsibility.
For more information on our products and services contact us now on
+44 (0)1325 462722or
sales@hwilliams.co.uk
AUGUST 2012 PAGE 19
www.hwilliams.co.uk
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44