Geofencing sets virtual boundaries around the safe working zones on a worksite. Workers wear a small device that alerts them the moment they leave a safe zone. With our partner Tended, we provide geofencing for rail as a managed service, a planning service or on hire, using a system that received product acceptance from Network Rail in September 2022.
Geofencing is a technology that defines a virtual perimeter using digital coordinates, mirroring a physical boundary. These virtual perimeters can be programmed to trigger events, such as alerts or notifications, when a user enters or exits the defined limit. In the rail industry, geofencing serves as a critical safety tool, aiding in preventing workforce accidents by enhancing situational awareness.
Tended, which develops geofencing safety technology, and RSS Infrastructure work in partnership to bring geofencing to the rail sector, giving clients flexible, easy-to-deploy options across projects.
This partnership includes the provision of geofencing as a managed service, short-term and dry-hire options as well as longer term rental opportunities. This means that geofencing can be easily deployed across a wide range of rail projects of varying duration and complexity.
Tended’s geofencing Wearables require no additional infrastructure, saving project time. Quick to set up and designed to withstand harsh working environments, these Wearables can be easily mounted in various positions using a Klick Fast™ attachment. Once the site has been set live within the Planning Dashboard, workers simply need to collect their Wearable from the charging case before heading to site. Wearables are updated in real-time ensuring they are always updated with any worksite changes.
The devices feature built-in fail-safe systems and offer reliable, durable service with multiple-shift battery life. With a typical accuracy of 16mm, wearers are alerted the moment they leave safe working limits. Our system leverages an extensive network of established beacons providing overlapping coverage across Europe, and proactive maintenance keeps device health and performance in check.
Access to analytics allows you to view safety data, identify trends, and inform future strategies. Tended’s behavioural science team works with you to ensure a high level of participation and engagement. With resources such as workshops and materials from our behavioural scientists, we ensure your workforce is familiarised with the technology to help remove any engagement challenges. Engaged workers then become advocates for the Wearables’ continued use onsite. The technology is updated regularly, so you have access to new releases and features.
Geofencing for Rail is more than a service; it’s a commitment to safer, more efficient rail operations. Trust us to partner with you on this transformative journey.
If you are interested in learning more about how Geofencing for Rail can enhance worker safety and operational efficiency, contact the team at RSS Infrastructure’s Track Warning Services division. Jason Fidoe, our Technical Manager (Geofencing), would happily discuss our Geofencing for Rail service with you. You can reach Jason at 0330 113 0004 or email geofencing@rssinfrastructure.com.
At RSS Infrastructure, we offer a fully managed geofencing service, short-term hire, and comprehensive training. Our geofencing solution received product acceptance from Network Rail in September 2022 for use on rail infrastructure and is fully compliant with Network Rail’s new geofencing standard.
We understand that introducing new technology can raise concerns. The value of geofencing lies in the extra layer of safety and operational efficiency it adds to your existing safe system of work.
The long-term benefits in terms of reduced accidents, improved efficiency, and better asset management make geofencing a cost-effective solution. Moreover, it is not a replacement for existing safety measures but a powerful supplement that strengthens overall safety and compliance with industry standards.
Join us in embracing the future of track safety and efficiency with geofencing technology. Contact us today to request an initial meeting or a demo of this revolutionary geofencing solution.
Geofencing technology uses satellite positioning to create virtual boundaries around a physical area. In rail, it defines safe working zones for trackside teams, enhancing safety by alerting workers when they stray into potentially hazardous areas. This technology improves situational awareness and helps to prevent accidents.
A track warning system warns people that a train is approaching. Geofencing doesn’t detect trains: it alerts workers when they leave the safe working zone set in the plan, for example if they stray towards an open line. It is used alongside the safe system of work, not instead of protection or warning.
Yes. Tended’s geofencing solution, which we supply, received product acceptance from Network Rail in September 2022. It uses satellite positioning with centimetre-level accuracy and needs no additional infrastructure on site.
Geofencing offers numerous benefits:
Enhanced safety: Reduces the risk of accidents by alerting workers who leave safe zones via wearable devices.
Improved efficiency: Streamlines planning and site briefing processes, enabling more efficient project delivery.
Better site management: It allows for digital mapping of work areas, including access points, walkways, and equipment locations.
Increased visibility: Enables real-time monitoring of workers and assets, allowing for quick identification of potential safety issues.
Cost-effectiveness: Helps prevent accidents and infrastructure damage, leading to long-term cost savings.
Read more: how geofencing assists railway infrastructure projects and enhancing winter safety with geofencing.
Yes, RSS Infrastructure provides three main geofencing service options:
Fully Managed Service: RSSI handles all aspects, from planning to providing qualified staff equipped with geofence wearables.
Planning Service: RSSI provides detailed geofence planning support for businesses that have purchased wearable devices but require assistance with setup.
Dry Hire Option: RSSI offers flexible dry hire of geofencing equipment for businesses with fluctuating needs.
The geofencing system utilises a small attachable device that workers carry. If a worker exits the designated safe zone, the device issues alerts through audible alarms, visual signals, and vibrations, prompting the worker to return to the safe area.
Absolutely. By attaching geofencing devices to plant and equipment, the system’s dashboard can monitor their live location and movements. This helps track asset location, prevent unauthorised movements, and ensure efficient resource use.
Contact RSS Infrastructure to schedule an initial consultation. During this meeting, you can discuss your specific project requirements and learn how geofencing can be tailored to your needs. RSSI will guide you through the process of choosing the appropriate service option and setting up the system for your project.
No, geofencing acts as an additional layer of safety, enhancing existing safety measures. It works with established safety protocols, training, and supervision to create a more robust safety environment for rail workers.
Yes, RSS Infrastructure has a proven track record of successfully implementing track safety solutions, including geofencing. We work with Tended, a company with expertise in geofencing technology, to deliver innovative safety solutions specifically designed for the rail industry.
Jason Fidoe is RSS Infrastructure’s Technical Manager (Geofencing). He can be contacted at jason.fidoe@rssinfrastructure.com or 07769 645 202. Jason has a strong record in track safety and considerable experience in the rail sector.
RSS Infrastructure offers a comprehensive Geofencing service, including a Fully Managed Service, which Jason oversees. This service covers everything from consultation and planning to providing qualified staff equipped with geofence wearables to manage worksites and ensure safe working zones. As Technical Manager, Jason plays a pivotal role in supporting clients and ensuring the successful implementation of this innovative safety solution. RSS Infrastructure is recognised for its expertise in Track Warning Systems and its commitment to developing services that enhance safety and productivity on rail projects, further highlighting Jason’s key contributions in his role.
The railway industry in the UK plays a vital role in the nation’s transportation infrastructure, serving millions of passengers and facilitating goods movement across the country.
Winter conditions present unique hazards in many industries, particularly in sectors like rail and construction, where outdoor work is prevalent.
In a significant stride towards enhancing rail safety, Tended and RSS Infrastructure (RSSI) was awarded the Commitment to Safety award at the 2024 SPOTLIGHT Rail Awards.
