QTS Group has partnered with Safer Group for nearly seven years, delivering a continuous programme of security technology deployments across remote Network Rail projects throughout the UK.
Each deployment supports Network Rail infrastructure projects in remote and logistically challenging environments, requiring systems that are fast to deploy, technically reliable, and resilient against environmental constraints.
The objective was to design, deliver, and maintain a bespoke security and monitoring solution capable of supporting multiple Network Rail projects that move frequently, with speed, and operate in rural regions.
QTS needed:
Rapid deployment and redeployment to meet ever-changing project timelines.
Reliable security deterrence, coverage, and monitoring across multiple areas.
Integration our technology with site and safety rules, to support on-site teams.
Continuous operation in areas with no reliable network signal.
Safer Group are now our security supplier of choice for projects in Scotland. They are open to new, innovative solutions and always respond quickly to the changing requirements in the Rail industry.
The variety and remoteness of QTS’s Network Rail sites meant that each project presented its own complexities.
Typically speaking, the locations were highly remote, with minimal local infrastructure and poor signal.
Sites and locations were often quick in their turnaround, demanding systems that could be moved and recommissioned quickly.
Operating through periods of COVID-19 restrictions, we had to contend with not only strict Network Rail safety and compliance standards, but also ever-changing government laws, requiring digital monitoring, verification, and new ways of working.
Despite these constraints, Safer Group have consistently maintained full system uptime and uninterrupted communications across every site.
To consistently meet QTS’s needs, Safer Group developed a customised security and safety package designed specifically for the rail environment.
A typical project deployment includes:
Bespoke Safer POD® units, adapted for QTS with mast-mounted cameras providing full panoramic coverage.
Installation of typically five fixed HD cameras per system, each integrated into a central monitoring hub.
Health and safety screens, iPads with live site access, and local monitors allowing QTS site managers to view real-time footage both on-site and remotely.
Incorporation of first aid kits and defibrillators, providing multifunctional site safety hubs.
Full integration with Safer Group’s 24/7 monitoring centre, enabling rapid incident response and off-site diagnostics.
Use of range extenders and redundant comms to eliminate signal challenges across every location.
Furthermore, during COVID-19, we partnered with QTS to deploy automated fever and mask detection, making QTS the first rail contractor approved by Network Rail to resume site operations during COVID-19.
They are quick to respond to any incidents; the quality of the response and images has been excellent. Moving away from manned guarding was a risk for us but the quality and service level of Safer Group's solutions have brought many benefits to QTS, not least removal of the safety risk due to lone working.
Over the course of our near-seven-year partnership, Safer Group and QTS have achieved a brilliant working relationship with consistent achievements over around 95 projects.
Despite most of our sites being remote and presenting a range of challenges, projects see consistent system uptime with little or no connectivity failures / signal loss.
Site security and safety continue to go from strength to strength; QTS are being empowered to work with efficiency and peace of mind due to our bespoke setups, monitoring and incident response.
