RSSB. Accelerating the adoption of new technology
Weathering the storm
How data is helping rail outrun extreme rainfall disruptions.
Chris KnowlesDirector of System Safety and Health, RSSB
The escalating frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events present a formidable challenge to the GB rail industry. Heavy rainfall can lead to earthwork failures, causing debris on the line or embankments to become unable to properly support the track.
Blanket speed restrictions, implemented as a reactive measure to mitigate earthwork failure risks, can trigger a domino effect of disruptions. Delays ripple across the network, increasing the potential for signals passed at danger, exacerbating overcrowding, and eroding passenger confidence.
That’s not to mention the financial penalties associated with exceeding service disruption thresholds, which pose a significant economic burden for operators and infrastructure managers (IMs).
We produced PRIMA to support Network Rail’s development of operational responses to extreme rainfall, and the tool can also be configured for other IMs. In addition, we’re currently adding the capability to address extreme wind conditions.
PRIMA empowers IMs to draw on class-leading data analytics and risk modelling in developing their responses to extreme weather.
The tool uses data analysis and risk modelling to generate proportionate speed responses, considering elements like:
rainfall severity
earthwork failure risk
derailment hazard mitigation
network-wide impact
commercial impacts.
By arming IMs with this robust information, we’ll help operators up and down the country benefit from reduced service disruption—ultimately benefiting both passengers and rail freight partners.
PRIMA facilitates the development of pre-emptive strategies, enabling rapid and effective responses to extreme rainfall events.
Drawing on data analytics and risk modelling, the tool generates tailored speed suggestions for each operating route section. These consider safety across the system, avoiding grossly disproportionate impacts on performance.
More broadly, PRIMA represents a paradigm shift in how the rail industry manages the challenges of extreme rainfall. By championing this proactive, data-driven approach, rail leaders can:
enhance safety and mitigate risks
improve operational efficiency and reduce delays
minimise financial losses associated with service disruption
strengthen customer confidence and satisfaction
optimise resource allocation and drive strategic investment.
PRIMA is designed to augment, not replace, the expertise of local infrastructure and operations specialists.
The output from the tool gives specialists science-based insight into the speeds that may be applied to mitigate the risks. Coupled with their understanding of the local conditions and operational constraints, PRIMA’s outputs support the development of practical and proportionate speed profiles.
In this era of increasing climate volatility, this combination of data and human expertise will give us the best chance for success. And by embracing this approach, rail leaders can safeguard their infrastructure, optimise operations, and deliver a superior experience for passengers and freight customers alike.
For more on PRIMA, head to our website.
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