HSE Newsletter Issue 88 April

HSE NEWSLETTER

ISSUE 88 APRIL 2020
WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

CONTENTS

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

Welcome
Your HSQE Team
MyIdea
COVID19 - Guidelines for key workers social
distancing in the workplace
Wellbeing – Homeworking during COVID19
Impact of Social Distancing
Coronavirus - How to Stay Safe
Handbook process update
Enough of what we can't do..
Safety Award Winner / Top 5 Close Calls
Notices
Safety Matters - Close Call App
Offices
Safety alerts

WELCOME

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

WELCOME FROM HEALTH
AND SAFETY MANAGER,
MARK BARRETT

Hello and welcome to the latest Health and Safety Newsletter. I want to open this welcome note by
sending VHRL’s best wishes to you and your loved ones during these unprecedented times. I hope you are
all keeping safe and adhering to the guidelines that have been issued by the Government and VHRL. You
should have all been receiving the daily updates that we are sending out as well as additional information
regarding social distancing whilst travelling to work and when on site. At the time of writing this newsletter,
the number of confirmed cases is over 25,000 and the death toll across the UK is well over 1,700..  This
situation has put extra pressure on all services across the UK. None more so than the NHS itself who are to
be commended for the great job they are doing. They, like us are having issues with getting certain items of
PPE.  Please be assured that we are pursuing this vigorously in order to protect you.  We will get through
these hard times and we all have a part to play in helping the country to achieve this. Ensure you keep your
eye on the news, internet and up to date guidance so that you are all up to speed with the latest
developments.  Remember, if you are going to site and working then you need to still stick to the basics.
Look after yourselves fatigue wise and raise any issues on site if work is unsafe or you see something on
site that has potential to cause harm. The Close Call system and the WorkSafe Policy can still be used.
 
Finally, if you are working from home or self-isolating, we know that this can have an effect on your mental
health and wellbeing. If you need to talk to someone, then please speak to your Branch Operations
Manager, Health and Safety Manager ([email protected]) or HR Business Partner
([email protected]).
 
Stay safe and please let somebody know if you need help.

Mark Barrett,
H&S Manager

YOUR HSQE TEAM

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

Health and Safety Manager and Close
Call Champion
Mark.Barrett- The Mill
[email protected]
0161 836 7053 / 07717 306 817

HSE Adviser (Scotland) and Close Call Champion
Stephen McKay - Scotland and Newcastle
Stephen. [email protected]
07717 306 733

HSE Adviser and Safety Unit (North)
Jane Hepburn – Manchester, Solutions, Milton
Keynes (North) Doncaster, Market Rasen and
Birmingham
[email protected]
07717 306 797

HSE Adviser and Safety Unit (South)
Alex Wilson - Cardiff, Farnham, Milton Keynes
(South) and Canning Town.  
[email protected]
07717 306 811

 MY IDEA

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

Here at Vital, we are always keen to know the thoughts of our workforce. We
urge our employees to think freely and innovatively so we can provide safe
solutions for any problems that arise on the infrastructure. Now, we are
making it even more simple for you to get your thoughts and ideas heard!

It’s your chance to help us improve and be in with the chance to win £100 of gift
vouchers if your suggestion is put into practice!

Simply go to our website to email us at [email protected] with your
suggestions for improving safety or ideas for innovation.

COVID19 - GUIDELINES FOR KEY WORKERS
SOCIAL DISTANCING IN THE WORKPLACE

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

These guidelines are based upon and should be read in conjunction with the advice provided from Public Health
England, Public Health Wales and Health Protection Scotland, which provides the most up to date advice from
the UK Government on what everyone should do following the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

We expect all workers to follow the advice from the UK Government on Social Distancing where possible and
support the national effort to protect citizens and workers.

Social distancing in the workplace
Workers should work at least 2 metres apart. Where this is absolutely not possible and not safe to do so then
good practice will mitigate the risk:
If working track side, the spread of the virus can be reduced by using safety gloves and safety glasses. Even
when wearing gloves, please ensure you follow the guidelines and ensure you cough into tissues (which you
should throwaway) and do not touch your face.
If you need to cough or sneeze, this should be into a tissue and put into a bin immediately.
If you do not have tissues, cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow.

VHRL Branch managers will work with our clients to amend workloads, practices and required staffing levels,
where appropriate, to that which are essential to provide, operate and support the railway.
Where works are required to take place, all measures practicable should be adopted to segregate workers and
minimise the likelihood of transmission or exposure to the COVID-19 virus. Such measures could include:

reducing shared transport and use own vehicle.
home start for workers, travel direct from home to work site, rather than depot to work site
segregation at sign in points and mess rooms,
changing or staggering of shift times.
workers are encouraged to bring prepared food to work.

- Workers that are not required on shift should remain at home.
- When travelling to work, if you can, avoid peak time travel, walk or cycle where possible. If you are using public
transport, try to maintain a seat distance between yourself and others.
- If you need to travel in a work van, ensure that you wipe all high touch point surfaces within the vehicle (this
includes door handles, steering wheel, seat belt buckle) using paper towels/kitchen roll and cleaning products
provided before setting off and allowing others in to the van.
- Upon arrival on site, if there are washing facilities available wash your hands with soap and warm water.
If you need to perform a briefing with other workers then keep a distance of 2 metres where possible. Wear your
gloves when signing the briefing sheet and use your own pen.

PICOP or similar other meetings where possible, are to be held remotely by using technology. If this is not
possible, on arriving at the site all workers must wash their hands using soap and warm running water. Sit at least
one chair distance between each other. If you need to cough or sneeze, do this into a tissue and bin the tissue
immediately and then wash your hands with soap and water.

If you work in an environment where people need to sign things then, where possible, use your own pens. If you
cannot do this, please wipe pens with antibacterial wipes or a paper towel and cleaning product/alcohol gel and
bin the towel after use or wear gloves when signing.

When possible, all VHRL operatives are encouraged to make their own way to site.
When a VHRL vehicle is being used, this vehicle must stay with the same driver at all times.
There must be no swapping/changeover of vehicles unless a professional clean has taken place.
VHRL vehicle is to be maintained, stocked and cleaned before and after each shift by the driver.
VHRL vehicle to be have sufficient stock of anti-bacterial product, such as wipes/hand sanitizer for all
occupants to use before and after each use.
PPE must be worn all times during the journey to and from the worksite.
Maintain an airflow throughout journey – windows opened appropriately – wear a coat if necessary.

N.B. The above diagram only to be used when travelling to/from an approved VHRL work assignment and when
using a VHRL work vehicle.

Mess Rooms
At the start and end of your break wash your hands using soap and running water.
Before sitting down please wipe the area using a suitable cleaning product (any antibacterial cleaning product
and disposable paper towel).
Do not share cutlery or crockery.
If you are on your break with other workers, please ensure you are at least one chair away from each other
inform your line manager immediately and go home, avoid touching anything,

Developing Symptoms at Work
If you become unwell in the workplace with coronavirus symptoms (a continuous cough or a high temperature)
you should:

inform your line manager immediately and go home,
avoid touching anything,
cough or sneeze into a tissue and put it in a bin immediately, if you do not have tissues, cough and sneeze into
the
crook of your elbow.
avoid unnecessary contact with anybody else

Keep Connected
While social distancing is one of the key recommendations to prevent the spread of COVID-19, you don’t need to
let it lead to social isolation. There’s a real risk of an increased sense of isolation and anxiety, especially when
people work remotely.
Don't forget that you can get support from your Mental Health Team at Vital. If you have any queries, then get
in touch with the Health and Safety Manager Mark Barrett [email protected] or the HR Business Partner
Lorraine Reece [email protected]. Alternatively, contact the email address at [email protected].

Please look after yourself and your colleagues just by having a conversation and checking in on one
another.

Driving
Despite the escalating Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, the UK’s population is relying on our roads staying open
for our key worker as described by the Government. However, it’s essential that in order to keep this going, we
should do everything possible not to contract or spread the COVID-19 virus..

With that in mind, here’s a quick 10-point guide for all drivers, not just van drivers, which has been produced in line
with the guidance provided by UK Government.
 
1)     Start the day
To minimise the risk of infection in the cab at the start of every working day, clean any areas likely to be touched
by the driver or passengers. These should include the steering wheel, gear selector, handbrake, ventilation
controls radio/infotainment, seat controls, seat belts, grab handles and mirror adjusters. Be careful not to make
the steering wheel and gear-lever slippery in the process.
 
2)     Clean outside
On the outside, clean all handles and doors especially in those areas likely to be touched (when slamming shut,
etc). Also, pay close attention to the fuel flap and filler. When was it last refuelled? Can’t remember or don’t know?
Give it a clean.
 
3)      Be prepared
Keep cleaning products in the cab. If there’s a driver swap, remember to clean all those areas likely to be touched
by the driver.
 
4)     Clean the cab
In the cab, to reduce the spread of germs when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, or
your sleeve (not your hands) if you don’t have a tissue. Remember to throw the tissue away immediately. Then
wash your hands or use a hand sanitiser.
 
5)     Check who you're collecting
If you know who you’re visiting, contact them first to see if they are showing any symptoms of COVID-19. If they
are, or are already self-isolating,
 
6)     Don't shake hands
Don’t shake hands and whenever you get in or leave the vehicle, use sanitiser gel to clean your hands. Avoid
touching your face at all times. Also, when you get the opportunity, ensure that your hands are washed regularly
following World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines – 20 seconds with soap and hot water.
 
7)      Is your drive essential?
The government’s guidelines are to avoid all non-essential travel – Each commercial vehicle is allocated for
business purposes only as per vehicle policy.
 
8)     Plan your route to avoid potential traffic hold-ups.
Have a look at where you’re going, and if you’re doing multiple visits or have several destinations, try to look at the
most efficient route possible in order to avoid spending time spent in standing traffic.
 
9)     Clean again
When you’ve finished for the day, clean the cab again, taking care to wipe all the areas that have been touched in
the day. Also remember to remove any rubbish from the cab that could be harbouring the virus.
 
10)    Check outside and in
Once you’re out, wipe all the door handles and door shuts, sanitise your hands again, and when you’re indoors,
thoroughly wash your hands for 20 seconds following the World Health Organization guidelines.

Looking after your
mental health during the
COVID-19 pandemic

morson.com | @MorsonGroup

Looking after your
mental health during the
COVID-19 pandemic

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is an exceptional event posing a threat to worker health
and safety and a risk to business operations.

As a new virus, it is unclear how long the threat will last so we must plan for ongoing disruption
to how we work and interact with each other on a day to day basis.

Employee health, safety and well-being is paramount and we wish to be proactive in protecting
our people, minimising the risk and ensuring you have the means to stay fit and well during this
uncertain period. Many of us now find we are working from home on a permanent basis and for
an indefinite period of time.

This document has been produced to help support our home working communities and
includes lots of information about adopting to new ways of working, reducing the effects of
isolation, how to safeguard our mental health, supporting others and what to do if you become
unwell.

Mental wellbeing
Curbing anxiety resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak

Experiencing anxiety now and then is a normal part of life. It is not unusual to temporarily feel anxious
when facing stressful situations, uncertainty, or extreme challenges. The emotions of anxiety and fear in
confronting a real threat are part of our survival instinct.

The information which we have highlighted below is to help you if;

you’re feeling anxious or worried about Coronavirus
you’re asked to work from home or limit your time spent in public places
you have to self-isolate and avoid contact with other people

Feeling worried?

Being concerned about the news is understandable, but for many people it can make existing mental
health problems worse. It's understandable that many individuals with pre-existing anxiety or OCD are
facing challenges at the moment. There is a lot of misinformation swirling around but it is better to stay
informed by sticking to trusted sources of information such as government and NHS websites.

One helpful tip is to limit the amount of time you spend reading or watching things which aren't making
you feel better. It may be best to decide on a specific time to check in with the news or look at social
media coverage. You can also mute key words which might be triggering on Twitter and unfollow or
mute/hide accounts on WhatsApp or Facebook, if you find them too overwhelming.
It is likely we will see increasing numbers of people self-isolating and working from home in the weeks to
come so now might be a good time to make sure your contact phone numbers and email addresses of
the people you care about or need to stay in touch with are up to date.
It can also be helpful to agree regular check-in times with family or friends and if you are self-isolating,
strike a balance between having a routine and making sure each day has some variety. Self-isolating
doesn’t mean staying indoors the whole time and getting a daily dose of fresh air can lift your mood and
help you feel connected with the world around you.

With ongoing uncertainly surrounding the coronavirus pandemic it is important
to have down time. The UK’s mental health charity Mind, recommend
continuing to access nature and sunlight wherever possible. Getting some
exercise, eating well and staying hydrated are important factors to support your
daily wellbeing. For more specific advice and information on keeping well, go to
their dedicated pages; https://www.mind.org.uk/information-
support/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing

Remember that there are support systems here at Morson to help you if you are
feeling overwhelmed. Our Mental Health First Aiders are available to talk to over the
phone, via email, or in person; a full list of our MHFAs can be found on the next page.

You can also access the Employee Assistance Programme, through which
you can speak confidentially to a trained counsellor 24/7. Click here to
access the brochure for further details.

Mental wellbeing
Isolation and loneliness

As the UK position moves towards the majority of people homeworking wherever possible, it is important
to combat the effects of social isolation and to find creative ways of staying connected with others. Even
for those who are used to homeworking the current restrictions may mean that many of us may soon be
accompanied by partners and possibly children. It is important to appreciate that each person in the
household may still need some space and privacy and may not be used to being restricted to their
homes for long periods of time. Try and allow space for each person to work, rest and to take breaks. Stick
to routine mealtimes when you would normally come together.

Alex McQuade [email protected]
Anita Maylott [email protected]
Becki Ross [email protected]
Calliann Creacal [email protected]
Charlotte Mainwaring [email protected]
Daniel Kirkby [email protected]
Davy Jones [email protected]
Elena Derry [email protected]
Gareth Morris [email protected]
Garry Milner [email protected]
Gemma Mason [email protected]
Heather Deering [email protected]
Ian Ross [email protected]
Jane Hepburn [email protected]
Jen Petruccio [email protected]
Joanne Gresty [email protected]
Katie Winstanley [email protected]
Kelly Doolan [email protected]
Leonie Kellar [email protected]
Mark Barrett [email protected]
Melissa Herrick [email protected]
Michaela Elliott [email protected]
Mike Connolly [email protected]
Sam Clinch [email protected]
Sarah Shaw [email protected]
Becky Hicks [email protected]
Chloe Drake [email protected]
Grzegorz Rzoska [email protected]
Jamie Nicholson [email protected]
John Dunnett [email protected]
Stephen McKay [email protected]
Sue Eyre [email protected]
Tim Leach [email protected]
Anita Bromley [email protected]>
Danielle Winter [email protected]
James Grant [email protected]
Jayne Davies [email protected]
Matthew Roberts [email protected]
Nichola Adamson [email protected]
Sam King [email protected]
Sarah Chapman [email protected]
Sue Winter [email protected]
Taylor Bowden [email protected]
Debbie Price [email protected]
Demari Waugh [email protected]
Graham Timbers [email protected]
Jack Brennan [email protected]
Jay Dassrath [email protected]
Karolina Pozdilkova [email protected]
Matthew Clift [email protected]
Russell Kimble [email protected]
Sue Watts [email protected] 
Tammy Williams [email protected]

Mental wellbeing
Supporting others during the COVID-19 outbreak

Giving is one of the 5 ways to wellbeing and is the act of freely parting with something and offering it to
someone or something beyond ourselves - a stranger, friend, family member, a charitable organisation,
our local community or our wider-community. It can involve parting with material things like money and
gifts, or immaterial things like our time. Giving to others can be hugely rewarding and can bring huge
benefits to our personal wellbeing. During the COVID-19 pandemic there will never be a more important
time to give to others who may find themselves in vulnerable or at risk groups. Find out more about how
you can help others here; https://www.goodsamapp.org/NHS

You may also wish to consider those living closer to home such as elderly friends or neighbours who may
rely on routine visits from family members or those working in social care for their day to day interaction.
These are people who might already experience isolation and loneliness and might be even more
affected by the restrictive measures currently in place.

You may already have seen online community support groups springing up in your local area. If not, and
you want to support those who will struggle for household supplies during this period, search online or
on social media channels and you will probably find a community group seeking support with deliveries,
collecting supplies from shops and generally making food or toiletry donations. If you can not find a
community group of this nature you could always consider setting up an online community forum to get
the ball rolling.

Tips on staying connected

Phone calls: Make business calls first thing in the morning so you're immediately hooked into life outside
the house. It can also help you plan priorities for the day.

Skype/Microsoft Teams calls: Use it to catch up with your colleagues and contacts. Make use of webex
and face to face conferencing where possible. If you need support on how to use MS Teams contact one
of the digital ambassadors or IT services for help and guidance notes.

Social media: Facebook Workplace, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, are brilliant ways to connect with like-minded
people however do use it in a disciplined way. Log off when you need to concentrate or switch off from
media hype which can be counter-productive.

Webinars or online events: Offer great opportunities for networking and training. Utilise online
networking not with the thought of getting more business, but as a way to meet people and develop
your support network.

Virtual Huddles: Advice is changing almost on a day to day basis and we are now being discouraged from
unnecessary social interaction. This can be difficult, especially for those who may live alone or those who
will have limited support to their usual home/family network due to the risk of cross-infection. However,
opportunities to come together could be via a ‘virtual huddle’, allowing time for a chat and a brew. You
may even consider arranging a virtual ‘walking’ huddle. No one says you have to be indoors all of the
time, even if you are self-isolating and some fresh air and exercise can really help clear your mind and set
you up for the rest of the day. Creative ways to support each other might be to share team insights, team-
training, sharing expertise or even utilising some time to access online courses.

Physical wellbeing Most of us are experiencing big changes to our routines. Try
Eating well during the and retain a sense of normality and eat according to your
COVID-19 pandemic normal meal pattern. If you do get sick, try to eat regularly
even if you’re not hungry, and make sure you are drinking
A word on 'boosting' your enough water. You can monitor your hydration by paying
immune system… attention to your thirst levels, urine colour (should be no
  darker than a pale yellow), and other symptoms of
There is no such thing as dehydration like dry lips, fatigue, and headaches.
“boosting” your immune
system through the foods that Minimise trips to the shop by planning ahead. Think about
you eat; no specific food, what you want to make for breakfast, lunch, and dinner over
nutrient, or supplement will the upcoming week, write a list of everything you need, and
prevent you from catching shop accordingly. N.B. If you need to self-isolate, you should
COVID-19. The European Food be having your food delivered or purchased by somebody
Safety Authority have not else.
authorised any claim for a food
or food component in the UK Be thoughtful about how you can make best use of the food
to be labelled as protecting that you buy. Use up your fresh and perishable ingredients
against infection. first so they don’t go to waste. You might batch cook some
meals to be frozen and eaten at a later date. Do some
Following good hygiene research into what keeps the longest, and make sure you’re
practices and social distancing storing fruits and veggies in the appropriate places – if you’re
advice are the best way of not sure, check whether something should be stored in the
avoiding infection. fridge or at an ambient temperature.
 
You can support immune Despite the UK Government repeating multiple times that
function by eating a variety of the food supply chain is robust enough to support increased
foods within a healthy demand during this time, panic buying has created some
balanced diet, as this will shortages. This might mean getting imaginative with
ensure you’re getting all of the recipes and ingredients. If you are missing one specific
nutrients your body needs to ingredient, try Googling ‘alternative to [whatever it is you’re
stay healthy. You can read all missing]’ – you will be surprised as to how easily substitutes
about what a healthy, balanced can be made without compromising taste. If you’re stuck for
diet looks like in the Morson ideas as to what to cook, there are millions of recipes
Group Healthy Eating and available online. Again, if there’s a particular food you need
Physical Activity Statement to base a meal around, the internet can help you get
here creative.

You may want to consider taking a vitamin D supplement.
Unlike all other vitamins and minerals, we get most of our
vitamin D from sunshine, rather than food, and even a
healthy, well-balanced diet is unlikely to provide you with as
much vitamin D as you need. As many of us may be going
outside less frequently, you may want to consider taking a
daily vitamin D supplement. This should contain at least
10μg (micrograms).

Comfort eating is a common reaction to stress and negative
emotions. This isn’t something you should feel bad about,
but try to be aware if this is a habit of yours. Try to practice
eating mindfully – in response to your body’s signals rather
than your emotions – and have healthy snacks on hand.

Make sure you’re paying particular attention to food hygiene
and safety practices. If you order takeaway, take the food
home right away and eat it while it is hot. Store leftovers
safely, ensure they’re wrapped up tightly or stored in
Tupperware, and reheat thoroughly before eating.

Physical wellbeing Physical wellbeing
Keeping yourself and others well Action to take if you feel unwell

How to avoid catching and spreading Stay at home if you have either:
coronavirus (social distancing). Everyone should
do what they can to stop coronavirus spreading. A high temperature – you feel hot to touch on
It is particularly important for people who: your chest or back.
A new, continuous cough – this means you've
Are aged 70 or over started coughing repeatedly
Have a long-term health condition
Are pregnant Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or
Have a weakened immune system hospital

DO You do not need to contact 111 to tell them
you're staying at home. Testing for
Wash your hands with soap and water often – coronavirus is not needed if you're staying at
do this for at least 20 seconds home.
Always wash your hands when you get home
Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are How long to stay at home
not available
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or If you have symptoms, stay at home for 7
your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough days
or sneeze If you live with other people, they should stay
Put used tissues in the bin immediately and at home for 14 days from the day the first
wash your hands afterwards person got symptoms
Avoid close contact with people who have If you live with someone who is 70 or over,
symptoms of coronavirus has a long-term condition, is pregnant or has
Only travel on public transport if you need to a weakened immune system, try to find
Avoid social activities, such as going to pubs, somewhere else for them to stay for 14 days
restaurants, theatres and cinemas If you have to stay at home together, try to
Avoid events with large groups of people keep away from each other as much as
Use phone, online services, or apps to contact possible
your GP surgery or other NHS services
Use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service if:
DO NOT
You feel you cannot cope with your
Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your symptoms at home
hands are not clean Your condition gets worse
Do not have visitors to your home, including Your symptoms do not get better after 7 days
friends and family
Use the 111 coronavirus service, only call 111 if you
cannot get help online.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-
covid-19/

Physical wellbeing Mental wellbeing
Keeping yourself fit and healthy Helping your brain wind down

In order to ensure we're all keeping fit and As well as physical exercise, during this time it is
healthy throughout this challenging period, also imperative that we take extra care of our
Barrie & Maria, our usual Morfit trainers have mental health. In addition to yoga, there are
prepared some online classes. many resources out there to help ease your
anxiety.
Barrie has put together a couple of short
workout videos, including one for kids for We’re all having to deal with things on the fly,
anyone working at home whilst looking after think about how we’re going to work things out.
their children. Barrie will be updating these with There are people working round the clock at the
new ones every week. moment to try and get their organisations in
the best possible shape whilst simultaneously
https://youtu.be/G30hhU388Mc worrying about their home lives.
https://youtu.be/dv6rXtTHYbY
https://youtu.be/5zeFklgpsA0 A solution that requires as little as 10-15 minutes
and helps you really switch off and quieten
In addition to Barrie's home workouts for down your mind so that you can get some
children, The Body Coach (aka Joe Wicks) is also proper rest is meditation.
offering free online classes for kids. You can find
them over on his YouTube channel @ The Body There’s a free App called Insight Timer, with lots
Coach TV. of meditations available. Some teachers on it
that get highly recommended are Tara Brach,
Working from home comes with it's various Sarah Blondin and Kate James.
challenges and it's therefore more important
than ever that we keep ourselves moving and Other apps which could be helpful to anyone
stretch as much as possible. Therefore, Maria, suffering from anxiety during this time are
our Morfit yoga instructor has also put together Headspace and CALM. And whilst you have to
some free online yoga classes for us to use pay for some of the more intense courses on
which you can find by following the link below. these apps, there are still plenty of free 5-10
minute meditation sessions which you can take
http://www.mariayoga.co.uk/online-classes/ part in.

An NHS-approved app, Thrive is used for the prevention, early detection and self-management of
common mental health issues. Users can access exercises and activities proven to treat and prevent
stress and anxiety – including calm breathing, deep muscle relaxation, meditation, thought training, and
self-suggestion, plus other interactive features. Based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), users can
complete a daily mood meter to monitor their mood and symptoms and this is used to recommend
exercises. Using clinical scales, the app will identify users scoring positively for anxiety or depression and
direct them to support modules that use the latest computerised CBT methods to help manage specific
stressors and retrain unhelpful thoughts. To download and install:

a. Go to the your app store, search “Thrive: Mental Wellbeing” and install the app
b. Open the app and select ‘Sign Up’
c. Enter your email address, select a password and enter the access code AVIVAIYP1116
d. You will receive a verification email with a link to verify your account.
e. Once verified, go into the app and ‘Log in’ with your email and password.

Top tips to help
you when working
from home

Should you feel that you need emotional or
physical advice and support during this time,
please contact Morson Health, Wellbeing and
Engagement Partner Heather Deering;

[email protected]

IMPACT OF SOCIAL DISTANCING

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CORONAVIRUS
HOW TO STAY SAFE

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CORONAVIRUS
HOW TO STAY SAFE

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CORONAVIRUS
HOW TO STAY SAFE

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New Process for Distribution of Handbooks AND Recent Updates

New Process for Distribution of Handbooks…

From paper and postage to… …PDF and email to save to your mobile phone

The process for sending you Handbooks is changing. Handbooks are now being sent by email as pdf
attachments. So when you get an email from Vital Compliance [email protected] with
subject GERT8000 Handbooks please open the email and save the PDF attachments.

The email will ask you to REPLY: Confirming receipt and full understanding of Handbooks so that we can
update our records and keep track of Handbooks you have been sent and received.

Note: Under the Health & Safety at Work Act you must co-operate in all matters of health and
safety. Failure to respond to the email within 4 weeks may result in you being stood down from any work
for Vital Human Resources Ltd and de-sponsored.

Handbook Updates AND New Process Page 1 of 3

Summary of Recent Updates (Dec 2019)…

Handbook 7 General duties of a controller of site safety (COSS)

KEY CHANGE
At a previous revision of the rules, section 4.2 was re-written in a way that did not give a separate name to the
arrangement for an IWA or a COSS working with only one other person to work without a site warden. The
section has been changed to refer to the safe system of work as 'separated' whether or not a site warden is
appointed.
DETAIL OF CHANGES
Section headings in bold relate to issue 5 of handbook 7
4. Working with a group
4.2 Safe systems of work

The section has been re-written to use the term 'separated' instead of 'site-warden warning'
as the rules also apply when an IWA or COSS working alone, or a COSS working with one
other person does not have to appoint a site warden.
4.6 Safe system of work using site wardens (site-warden protected)
The title has been changed to use the term 'separated' as the rules also apply when an IWA
or COSS working alone, or a COSS working with one other person does not have to appoint a
site warden.

Handbook 9 IWA or COSS setting up safe systems of work within possessions

KEY CHANGE
At a previous revision of the rules, the title of section 3.5 was re-written in a way that did not include the
arrangement for an IWA or a COSS working with only one other person to work without a site warden. This is
still shown in handbook 7, and handbook 9 has been amended to include this, with the title of the section
changed to refer to the safe system of work as 'separated' whether or not a site warden is appointed.
DETAIL OF CHANGES
Section headings in bold relate to issue 6 of handbook 9
3 Working within a work site
3.5 Safe system of work using site wardens (site-warden protected)

The title has been changed and the section re-written to be consistent with handbook 7,
which allows an IWA or COSS working alone, or a COSS working with one other person not to
appoint a site warden.

Handbook Updates AND New Process Page 2 of 3

Handbook 11 Duties of the person in charge of the possession (PICOP)

KEY CHANGES
Placing work-site marker boards at reduced distances is referred to in Handbook 12, but not in Handbook 11.
Not all PICOPs or ESs hold the other competency, and to make sure both are aware of this rule, it has been
included here. There is no minimum distance specified between the detonator protection and the site of work
when work-site marker boards are not provided and it is not possible to decide whether the plan is adequate. A
minimum distance has now been shown. Section 8.12 does not state, as shown in module T3, that this refers to
any movement being made towards the detonators, and not just to one leaving the possession. This has been
corrected.
Diagram HB11.2 did not clearly identify which points are referred to and has been amended to show this in a
better way.
DETAIL OF CHANGES
Section headings in bold relate to issue 6 of handbook 11
4 Taking the possession

Diagram HB11.2 has been amended to show more accurately the points that are being
referred to.
4.5 If the standard distance is not available
This section has been renamed to explain the meaning more exactly
6 Work sites
6.2 Indicating each work site
This section has been rewritten to state that work-site marker boards can be placed at
reduced distances, as shown in handbook 12.
8 Train movements
8.12 Leaving the possession - standard distance is not available
This section has been rewritten and renamed to make it clear that it applies to any
movement, not just one leaving the possession. This is already shown in module T3.

Handbook 12 Duties of the engineering supervisor (ES) or safe work leader (SWL) in a possession

KEY CHANGES
There is no minimum distance specified between the detonator protection and the site of work when work-site
marker boards are not provided and it is not possible to decide whether the plan is adequate. A minimum
distance has now been shown. At a previous revision of the rules, the title of section 4.5 was re-written in a
way that did not include the arrangement for an IWA or a COSS working with only one other person to work
without a site warden. This is still shown in Handbook 7, and Handbook 12 has been amended to include this,
with the title of the section changed to refer to the safe system of work as 'separated' whether or not a site
warden is appointed.
DETAIL OF CHANGES
Section headings in bold relate to issue 6 of handbook 12
3 Setting up the work site
3.4 Indicating the work site

This section has been rewritten to state a minimum distance between the detonator
protection and the site of work when work-site marker boards are not provided.
4 Agreeing the safe system of work with each COSS/IWA
4.5 Safe system of work using site wardens (site-warden protected)
The title has been changed and the section re-written to be consistent with handbook 7,
which allows an IWA or COSS working alone, or a COSS working with one other person not to
appoint a site warden.

Handbook Updates AND New Process Page 3 of 3

ENOUGH
OF WHAT WE CAN’T DO

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

Here’s something we can do. An in house 11-minute exercise routine

SAFETY AWARD
TOP 5 CLOSE CALLS

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

SAFETY AWARD WINNERS  FRANKIE ARNOLD

Whilst working away in Inverness, operatives Jack Dawson and Frankie
Arnold, were enjoying a meal with colleagues during some down time when
Jack noticed that a colleague was experiencing discomfort that rapidly
became a serious risk to life. The person was choking with blocked morsel of
food. Jack and Frankie, having recently completed a first aid training course
with Vital, realised that they had to act quickly and decisively and used their
knowledge to work as a team helping to clear the casualty’s blockage.

Jack said, “We performed the Heimlich manoeuvre on the casualty drawing
on the first aid training”. “We were glad to be able to help a colleague who
was inobvious need. He made a full recovery and was able to order a coffee
to calm his nerves.”

TOP 5 CLOSE CALLS JACK DAWSON

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - VITAL PATROLLERS SAVE LIFE

At approximately 12:30 hours on 19/03/20 BTP received an emergency call from Network
Rail stating that two Vital patrollers were restraining a suicidal female who was trying to
jump in front of a train at Chester Le Street railway station. When asked, the female told
the patrollers it was because of fears the world was going to end due to the ongoing
Coronvirus pandemic.
 
The two patrollers, Glyn Miller and Joel Jackson, managed to get the female into the
waiting shelter but had to restrain her on two occasions when she tried to jump in front of
passing trains which were still running as normal.
 
A call was made to the BTP for assistance. British Transport Police arrived at the scene at
12:47. The female was eventually detained under section 136 of the mental health act by
BTP.
 
“Having spoken to the two patrollers in person and hearing their account I believe that they
saved this female’s life by their positive intervention.” Richard Price, Embedded Inspector
– British Transport Police.

COVID-19 AND NETWORK RAIL RESPONSE WITH EXTENSION

TO COMPETENCY ASSESSMENTS AND MEDICALS

It is critical we all play our part in keeping the railway infrastructure running safely for those
who rely on it.  Network Rail has recognised this, along with the importance of having
readily available, fit, trained and competent workers to maintain the railway.  Consequently,
Network Rail has temporarily extended all Sentinel railway competences and medical
certificates by four months effective from  23rd March 2020. To view your competency and
medical expiry dates and for the avoidance of any doubt please log in to your Sentinel
account.  You can do this by logging onto https://mysentinel.me/Account/LogOn/.

ATTENDANCE AT YOUR LOCAL VITAL OFFICE

Please note that in our efforts to reduce exposure to Covid-19, an appointment must be
arranged before attending any of the VHRL offices. A convenient time must be agreed
with your line manager before attending any of the VHRL branches and you must have an
appropriate reason e.g. emergency PPE, timesheets, vehicle collection etc.. Only one
individual will be allowed in an office at any one time.

FIT FOR WORK

All VHRL workers must be fit for work before travelling and commencing any shift. Fit for work is
defined as a state where the individual is physically, mentally and emotionally capable to enable
them to perform their tasks completely and safely.

OTHER EMPLOYMENT

Fatigue is a major risk to all who work in the rail industry. Accordingly, VHRL has systems in place to
reduce the risk of fatigue when planning shifts. It is therefore imperative the worker informs VHRL of any
other employment in order for this risk to be considered. It is the sole responsibility of the worker having
employment to inform the VHRL branch responsible for planning and allocating work in order for this
other work to be considered before any shift(s) are finalised.

SIGNING OUT WHEN LEAVING SITE

We are now seeing more examples of our workers not signing out when leaving site. I f you do not
sign out then a report is sent to head office for us to action. Please do not get caught out.

HOODIES

As the cold weather is now here, you are reminded that the wearing of hoodies is forbidden. We
have balaclavas and snoods that are approved for wearing under your hard hat during the colder
weather. Anybody found wearing a hoody will be asked to remove it. If you require a
balaclava or snood then please contact your local branch. This will give them sufficient time to
source and issue accordingly .

USE OF HOTELS WHILST WORKING AWAY FROM HOME

As part of our Fatigue Management policy, hotels are provided when the 14-hour door to door policy
(12 hours on some projects) may be in danger of being breached. This forms part of the shift planning
process and they are there to protect you and your team. The hotel s are provided to protect you all
from accidents and incidents that may occur as a result of fatigue, so please ensure they are utilised
when booked.

HSE AMBASSADORS

We currently have 15 HSE Ambassadors with more in training.

Scotland Solutions Manchester Canning Town
Shaun Gallacher Abid Uddin Brian Healey John MacVicar
Andy Kelly Mark Wallis
Alec Beattie Farnham Gareth Davies
Jim Stevenson Jalal Ahmed
Steve Gowans Carol Dwyer Colas Free to be Safe Champion
Dillon Miller Phil Allen Gareth Davies - Canning Town
Sean Mayle

ACCIDENT REPORTING

If you have an accident on site, no matter how small or unimportant you think it might be, make
sure you report it to your site supervisor immediately AND your Business Operations Manager
immediately. This will ensure that an investigation is carried out which will help to prevent further
accidents from occurring.

OSBORNE – STOP THINK MARCH 2020

The Mach edition of the Osborne STOP Think! Magazine can be found by accessing the following
link: https://view.publitas.com/osborne/osborne-stop-think-cascade-march-2020-edition/page/1

SAFETY MATTERS

THE CLOSE CALL APP 

Created specifically for our workforce; a multi platform mobile app that
has been designed for users to ensure they can report a close call at
anytime and any place. 
 

FEATURES INCLUDE  REPORT A CLOSE CALL
0161 836 7200
SIMPLE - Add the information to the form
provided and submit www.closecallnow.com

DIRECT - All close calls reported through
the app are sent instantly to our Health
and Safety mailbox 

PHOTOGRAPH - Upload supporting
images

OFFLINE - No network connection
required - use the app anywhere
 

SAFETY MATTERS
THE CLOSE CALL REPORTING APP 

Available to download NOW!

OFFICES

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

Manchester (Head Office) Abercynon Bellshill
tel 0161 836 7000 tel 01443 809 950 tel 01698 840 950
email [email protected] email [email protected] email [email protected]
The Mill, G16/17 Ty Cynon, Dalziel House, Ground Floor,
South Hall Street, Navigation Park, Strathclyde Business Park,
off Ordsall Lane, Abercynon, Lark Way, Bellshill,
Salford, Manchester, CF45 4SN Lanarkshire,
M5 4TP ML4 3RB

Birmingham  Cardiff Crewe
tel 0121 809 3010 tel 029 2083 9955 tel 01270 906 130
email [email protected] email [email protected] email [email protected]
F03 First Floor, The Laurels, Dragons Wharf,
Fairgate House, Heol Y Rhosog, Sandbach,
205 Kings Road, Springmeadows Business Park, Cheshire,
Tyseley, Rumney, CW11 3PA
Birmingham, Cardiff,
B11 2AA CF3 2EW

Doncaster Farnham Market Rasen
tel 01302 244450 tel 01252 964 020 tel 01302 308 080
email [email protected] email [email protected] email [email protected]
First Floor Offices, Unit 10, Unit 2,
Carr House, Guildford Road Trading Estate, Gallamore Lane Ind. Estate,
Heavens Walk, Farnham, Market Rasen,
Doncaster, Surrey, LN8 3HZ
DN4 5HZ GU9 9PZ

Milton Keynes Newcastle London
tel 01908 015020 tel 0191 300 0433 tel 0203 963 5080
email [email protected] email [email protected] email [email protected]
Suite 532, Spaceworks, Unit 10,
Elder House, Benton Park Road, Canning Town Business Park,
Elder Gate, Newcastle upon Tyne, Stephenson Street,
Milton Keynes, Tyne & Wear, London,
MK9 1LR NE7 7LX E16 4SA

SAFETY ALERTS

WWW.VITAL.UK.COM

Near miss invloving track workers
PPE
Safe isolations
Life saving rules - test before touch
Track workers trapped between two RRVs

Near miss involving track workers

Issued to: All Network Rail line managers,
safety professionals and RISQS
registered contractors

Ref: NRB20-04

Date of issue: 03/03/2020

Location: Greenland Mill, Western Route

Contact: Louise Evatt, Head of Route
Safety, Health & Environment

Overview The team managed to get to a position of safety
only 3-5 seconds before the train passed.
On 26 February 2020 members of the Westbury
Track team planned to work in a shared line A Level 2 investigation is underway to establish
blockage on the Up Trowbridge in order to why this happened, and a shared learning will be
undertake lifting and packing works. Whilst issued in due course.
working on the Down Trowbridge with Hand
Tampers, the team were involved in a near miss
with a Colas light loco.

Discussion Points

• Planning: Is your work planned • Communication: When signing into a
according to the safe system of work line blockage with a Protection
hierarchy, in the safest system of work Controller, how is the safety critical
available? communication carried out? How is
understanding checked before authority
• Checking: How do you ensure that your is given to share the line blockage?
planned safe of system effectively
covers your task and location to enable • Protection: When working in a line
you to complete your work today safely? block, what additional protection do you
How do you test your safe system before have in place? Also remember that in
you start? accordance with Handbook 8 Section
4.1 'Protection at the site of work', 'you
• Understanding: How do you check that must place a red flag or red light on the
the location you are at is correct as per approach to the site of work if;
your planned safe system of work? Do o The work will affect the safety of
you have sufficient local knowledge? If any approaching train, or
not, stop. o A group is working'

Part of our group
of Safety Bulletins

PPE ON TRACK IS MANDATORY

You have ultimate responsibility to ensure your PPE is complete & compliant. If it is not, you
risk being refused permission to work and subsequent loss of earnings. Approved Safety
glasses are mandatory PPE at all times. If you need prescription safety glasses, please
contact your host branch and they will arrange to supply you. Note some tasks may have
specific PPE needs that must be met beyond the minimum mandatory requirement. Please
keep the graphic below as a reminder of what you need to have before reporting for every
shift

Safe isolations

Issued to: All Network Rail line managers,
safety professionals and
accredited contractors

Ref: NRA20-02

Date of issue: 20/03/2020

Location: National

Contact: Sultan Parkar, Principal Engineer
Contact Systems AC/DC

Overview The formal industry investigation has revealed a
number of factors which require immediate action
On 25th December 2019 an overhead to reinforce compliance with isolation planning
linesman was seriously injured when he came and testing requirements.
into contact with the live overhead line
equipment (OLE) at Kensal Green. Safety
Bulletin NRB19-22 refers.

It is clear that changes are required to the
'Test before Touch' industry practice.

Immediate action required • Every Nominated Person issuing an
OLE Permit/Form C must confirm that
• The Test before Touch lifesaving rule the permit holder demonstrates a full
requires that a test be witnessed or understanding of the safe work limits,
performed every time before touching work to be undertaken, route of travel
OLE beyond an inline feature. and the electrical residual hazards
stated on the OLE Permit/Form C.
• You should not plan staggered
isolations unless this is absolutely • Where there is a change of person
unavoidable. Where staggered limits holding the OLE Permit, the permit
are essential, enhanced control holder must inform their relief of the
measures must be used. Live working limits, any electrical residual
sections must be clearly identifiable on hazards and the control measures
site. detailed in the OLE Permit/Form C.

• Nominated persons must undertake a • Any alternative arrangements for
site or virtual walkout before the issuing an OLE Permit/Form C must be
isolation to confirm working limits, and planned and approved by the relevant
to identify electrical residual hazards Delivery Unit or designated project
and control measures, such as engineer.
flashing blue lights.

• Nominated persons must be
competent to carry out this task, and
this will need to be checked on their
Sentinel cards.

• All residual hazards must be identified
on the OLE Permit/Form C including
live equipment adjacent, abutting or
crossing over earthed equipment.

Part of our group
of Safety Bulletins

Lifesaving rules – Test before
touch on 25kV OLE

Issued to: All Network Rail line managers,
safety professionals and RISQS
registered contractors

Ref: NRA 18/12

Date of issue: 19/07/2018

Location: National

Contact: Phil Doughty, Head of Contact
Systems AC/DC

Overview

Feedback from front line staff has indicated that It should be noted that all approved live line
the lifesaving rule for test before touch on 25kV is indicators only indicate live or de-energised. They
not being applied in a consistent manner. do not indicate that the equipment is safe to
touch.
The lifesaving rule: test before touch, for 25kV is
a key control for managing the risk of working on When any approved live line indicator confirms
or near electrified lines. de-energised there could still be dangerous
voltages in the equipment.

Following the five-step process below ensures the
safety of the staff working on or near 25kV
equipment using a live line indicator.

Immediate action required

All staff should be applying test before touch 3. Always be sure the required plans and
in accordance with the guide to the permits are in place, before you start a job or
application of the electrical lifesaving rules. go on or near the line – For 25kV equipment
this means ensure that you have a Form C in
When test before touch is applied as detailed accordance with NR/L3/ELP/29987 which
in the application guide and referenced details the limits of the isolation.
standards then the rule is a robust process to
confirm the equipment is safe to touch. 4. Test before approach – a check that you are
in the right location as per your Form C
The lifesaving rule for test before touch on isolation limits.
25kV is a five-step process:
5. Retest if you move beyond any inline OLE
1. Test before earth – to ensure the equipment feature, move to different track or work on a
is de-energised before applying an earth. different conductor.

2. Apply earths – eliminate the risk of residual Copies of Safety Advice are available on Safety Central.
voltage.

Part of our group
of Safety Bulletins

Track worker trapped between
two RRVs

Scope: Network Rail line managers,
safety professionals and
accredited contractors

Ref: NRX20-02

Date: 06/03/2020

Location: Manor Park, Anglia Route

Contact: Suzanne Kay - Head of Safety &
Sustainable Development, Capital
Delivery

Overview

On 22/02/2020 two Road Rail Vehicles (RRVs) The COSS was assessed by the on site first aider
were being used for work on overhead line though he initially declined further medical help.
equipment. Both machines arrived at structure After a few hours the COSS began to feel
06/17, Manor Park East London, at approximately unwell and may have begun to suffer from shock
15:30, five hours into the activity, to operate back so he was taken to hospital by ambulance for
to back. The RRVs were less than one metre further checks. It was later confirmed he had
apart. suffered no broken bones or internal injuries and
was discharged around 22:00.
While the linesmen were working above, track
staff assisted in transferring equipment between The incident is currently under investigation by
the two RRVs. One of the RRVs had to move RAIB and Network Rail.
closer to facilitate the installation of equipment.
This accident could have been much worse and
The RRV operator sounded the horn and coincided with the Rail Accident Investigation
confirmed the move to take place with the Branch issuing an Urgent Safety Advice about rail
machine controller (MC). The RRV moved and staff moving between stationary trains in yards,
trapped the track staff Controller of Site Safety sidings etc. This advice was in connection with a
(COSS) between the two machines. fatal accident in Tyseley yard, Birmingham where
a train driver was killed whilst passing between
The COSS had positioned himself between the two trains - one of which had then moved - in
two machines' rear bumpers. Various people on December 2019.
the ground shouted, the RRV operator moved the
machine forward and the COSS walked out to the Please remind staff:
cess.
• Not to enter an exclusion zone unless
agreed by the MC.

• Never put yourself in a position of danger
between two machines.

Part of our group
of Safety Bulletins