Keeping the Tyne and Wear Metro Safe and Secure ()

Infrasafe teamed up with DB Regio, operators of the Tyne and Wear Metro, to manage a major overnight security operation.

The objective was to show a high visibility presence across some of the Network's main stations and sidings and oversee the secure out stabling of coaching stock. Infrasafe's team was responsible for managing incidents including drunk and disorderly behaviour, vandalism, graffiti and cable and equipment theft.

Cable theft, in particular, is a major cause of disruption to the running of the Metro system for Nexus, the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Executive, and the thousands of passengers who travel on this busy light rail system. The problem costs Nexus £'000's each year and train suspensions, whilst repairs are being carried out, cause major problems for commuters. Thieves also risk their own safety with 1,500 volts of electricity running through overhead line cables.

The Metro has its own rules and procedures to protect staff, contractors and members of the public. Infrasafes's team possesses dual competencies to work on both Nexus Rail and Network Rail infrastructure. Combined with our skills and awareness in dealing with the public and vast experience in rail operations and track safety, we were the preferred choice to deliver this service.

DB Regio Management was delighted to report zero incidents. No Metrocars were damaged and the out stabling arrangements worked extremely well. We look forward to continuing to make the Metro a safe and secure environment. Please contact Brian Cairns at brianc@infrasafe.co.uk