Network Rail has unveiled a new new code of conduct designed to improve the reputation of the railway industry supply chain.
The new code sets out standards of behaviour for all suppliers, including being safe, polite, respectful and helpful when working in the community.
Safety is a particular point with the new code and all suppliers must sign up to the organisation’s 10 “Lifesaving Rules” to ensure everyone is home safe every day. The code also highlights the expected standards of training for all staff working on behalf of the rail operator and promotes health and wellbeing of the entire workforce.
All contractors are also now expected to provide staff training on community behaviours before they start any job on the railway.
Mark Carne, chief executive of Network Rail, said: “The railway depends on the people who work on it. Ensuring that these people behave in a professional and appropriate way is therefore of critical importance to us and to the customers and communities we serve.
“We want to work together with those who share our determination to continuously improve this area. We want to provide clarity on what we expect from our people and the support they can expect from us. This code of conduct will help us do that.”
A copy of the new code can be downloaded here.
