Removing detonators to improve safety and move towards a more technological railway
Detonators are the emergency warning system used on the GB mainline railway. They have been relied on for 180 years. However, research shows that poor placement limits their impact. The risk of sending staff onto the track to place them often carries more risk than the benefit of using the detonator to warn drivers.
There is a need for safe, practical alternatives.
Technical specialists worked with Network Rail and trade unions. We looked at various alternatives, including the use of new technologies that might work as well as or better than detonators. We also looked at the impact of no changes, or whether any existing methods might be useful as a replacement.
Risk analysts and human factors experts made sure that any changes in risk were acceptable. Then wider industry consultation took place.
Having fewer detonators in circulation means less risk to staff at trackside. It reduces the need for staff to deal with stored explosives. It saves having to get rid of seven tonnes of waste. It makes operations safer and more sustainable.
Limiting the use of detonators makes it easier to assess needs and try alternatives.
Valuable findings came from this project. It should be looked at alongside other current work that supports the industry’s move away from detonators.