MAIN FEATURE
to 1,800mminternal diameter) is managed by the Structures Route Asset Managers from a structural integrity viewpoint. Under-track crossings drainage (450mmand under internal diameter) is management by the Drainage Route Asset Managers. The management and maintenance of water flow is managed by the Drainage Route Asset Managers for both culverts and the under- track crossings. Where these assets are owned by others (such as water utilities, etc.) then they work with Network Rail to gain access to inspect and maintain those assets.
Q. Where does Trenchless Technology fit into the asset management aspect of the Network Drainage programmes – for example CCTV surveys, rehabilitation of existing pipework as opposed to open cutting for new-lay, installing new undertrack pipework etc. and how do you seetheuseof these technologies increasing/ decreasing in the future?
A. The Network Rail Drainage standards mentions some maintenance or construction techniques, however they are by no means comprehensive. The Route Asset Managers remit the renewals works and often these are based on the output desired. The means and methods of delivery are left to the competent and qualified supply chain. Where the supply chain has new or novel techniques, these are then raised to Network Rail (via a specific project through the project management team or via a challenge to the standard through Network Rail website).
Q. What is thevalueof theNe twork drainage operations per annum (if availablefor publishing)?
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A. Unfortunately, NR is unable to provide this figure as it is commercially sensitive.
Q. What arethelong-te rm aims currently for the Network in terms of Drainage management given the apparent growing effects of climate change and changing weather patterns?
A. Network Rail has keenly felt the effects of climate change and extreme/adverse weather. We are reviewing our resilience to these impacts which means a better understanding of weather data and how it impacts on our operations, our asset vulnerability to various weather events, building in more resilience in our drainage systems through redundancy/ recovery/response to weather events. We understand that we are not alone in coping with the negative effects of climate change. We are broadening our partnership with other organisations who share in the challenges (such as Canals & Rivers Trust, Highways England, etc.). With collaboration on projects, we can work together to manage water flows onto and off the railway infrastructure.
Q. What qualifications do you expect of your contractors? Arethe reminimum requirements not just as required by Law for specific operations and equipment use (e.g Water jetting and CCTV qualifications) but additionally as part of Network Rail’s internal requirements – if any?
A. A specification/standard is set for each task and we would ask that contractors supply only staff that are qualified to that specific level for the particular task being requested be undertaken. We use industry standard qualifications for minimum requirements.
| March 2021 |
www.draintraderltd.com
Further to these questions additional information was gained from Network Rail which may be of interest to many of the contractors and suppliers looking to enter the rail market. The main thrust of the information was that whilst NR has a set of operational preferences that have been investigated and proven to meet the requirements of the organisation, it is always open to hear from anyone that might have alternatives, either products, equipment or techniques, that have not yet been investigated or made available that might meet the operational requirements. So it appears that if you are out there and you have something you might deem suitable that will not only meet the current expected standards of the Network Rail drainage operations, make an approach. The organisation is open to suggestion, even if it might take a while for the process to be completed to get the option recognised.
Furthermore, it appears that the regional breakdown of the Network Rail organisation is also open to approach from local organisations, contractors and suppliers. Even with some regions working within the national framework and whilst some of the county’s biggest contracting names are often seen on the NR sites, some of the regional managements are looking to support local economies and companies by utilising their skills wherever possible by contracting with more local providers. This not only enables better supervision on their part but also utilises local knowledge and skills. So, again if you have a reason to believe that you fit the NR bill do not be shy in coming forward. Again it may take a bit of work to show that what you have is what NR wants but it may be worth the effort in the long-run.
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