In a bid to support the Dutch rail industry’s efforts to improve safety and efficiency, prominent rail safety technology companies Tended and Dual Inventive have announced a new partnership focused on introducing geofencing technology in the Netherlands. This technology aims to address the challenges faced by ProRail in ensuring the safety of track workers amidst a dense rail network, climate change, and increasing staff shortages.
The partnership between Tended and Dual Inventive aims to deliver a unique system to the Dutch rail industry, enabling rail workers and on-track machine drivers to verify that they are operating in safe working areas. This innovative approach is crucial, especially in light of the recent increase in on-track machines located beyond possession limits without permission, as highlighted by the Dutch safety standards organisation RailAlert.
With its expertise in technology solutions for safer and more efficient rail infrastructure, Dual Inventive brings extensive international experience in enhancing the safety and efficiency of track worker sites. On the other hand, Tended’s geofencing system combines geospatial technology with behavioural science to transform operational safety and efficiency, with the ability to map out safe working zones, improve worksite visibility, and reduce the risk of incidents.
The introduction of this pioneering innovation in the Netherlands is set to begin with a collaboration with the RailAlert Foundation, with a project planned for later this year. Lex van der Poel, Chief Technology Officer at Dual Inventive, expressed the importance of utilising available technology to address the challenges brought about by climate change and the shortage of track workers, stressing the need for the industry to work better and differently.
Dominic O’Malley, Head of Partnerships at Tended, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the exciting opportunity to expand internationally and accelerate the use of innovative technologies to prevent accidents and fatalities on the railway. It is worth noting that Tended’s geofencing system is already widely used across the UK, with several Network Rail routes and principal contractors utilizing the technology to improve worksite operations.
Overall, the collaboration between Tended and Dual Inventive represents a significant step towards enhancing the safety of trackside teams in the Netherlands. By leveraging innovative technologies and industry expertise, the partnership aims to support ProRail in addressing the current challenges and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the Dutch rail network.