Situation
This project came about as Network Rail was trialling wearable GNSS RTK geofencing devices from two suppliers to warn track workers and plant staff about entering unsafe areas. However, they were not performing as expected. Their use was governed by standard NR/L2/OHS/501, whose tolerances did not match how the technology works and which left gaps such as acceptable alert latency.
Action
Pragmatex steered Network Rail through a technology re-evaluation. Working with Network Rail’s geospatial team, Pragmatex reviewed the standard, developed test plans and investigated device performance through staged testing, providing strategic guidance on where the technology could add value.
Result
As a direct outcome of Pragmatex’s testing, Network Rail withdrew the existing standard and commissioned Pragmatex to develop the requirements for its replacement. The work provided Network Rail and suppliers with a clearer understanding of viable use cases and a route to introduction driven by operational needs.
