Ground Control, a leading grounds maintenance and external works contractor focused on maintaining the UK's transportation networks, is deploying geofencing to improve safety during its trackside operations.
Maintaining the UK’s extensive rail network while protecting trackside biodiversity, Ground Control delivers a range of essential services, including vegetation management, track maintenance, and earthworks. Due to the high-risk nature of rail environments, Ground Control prioritises safety and is committed to implementing the latest technologies to support their operations and reduce risks to their workforce.
As part of this initiative, they are introducing Tended’s geofencing technology, which will provide increased visibility over their worksites, ensuring their on-track plant and equipment remain in designated safe zones and away from onsite hazards.
The initial rollout of geofencing will take place in targeted areas of Wales, where Ground Control have been awarded £7m worth of works as part of Network Rail’s CP7 delivery plan. The technology will play an important role in the accurate placement of safety-critical equipment, such as marker boards, possession limit boards, and til-dawn lamps. It will also enable Ground Control to better track plant movements and monitor the live location of the company’s Road Rail Vehicle (RRV) fleet.
By implementing geofencing, Ground Control aims to mitigate risks to its workforce as well as reduce the risk of possession irregularities and incidents that could disrupt project timelines and cause network delays, such as points run-throughs.
James Hanna, Operations Director at Ground Control said: “At Ground Control, the safety of our teams is our top priority, especially when they are working in high-risk environments and near railways. By implementing Tended's geofencing technology, we can get a better overview of the location of our plant and equipment to improve worksite safety and reduce risks for our workforce. I look forward to seeing the project's progress and the associated safety and efficiency benefits.”
Tended will provide its geofencing technology, alongside its expertise in behavioural science, to facilitate both operational and cultural change. This partnership will support Ground Control in conducting essential maintenance works, ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of the rail network for both passengers and workers.
Matt Silvester, Accounts Director at Tended said: “This deployment forms part of our continued expansion in Wales, where we are proud to enhance safety for Ground Control’s critical maintenance works. Our geospatial technology, together with behavioural science insights, will help to drive operational improvements and create a stronger safety culture. This deployment underscores both organisations’ commitment to supporting essential infrastructure maintenance while ensuring safety for rail workers and the public.”
