Upgrading Depot Protection While Maintaining Operations
FirstClass Safety & Control delivered an upgraded Depot Protection System at the Hitachi/LNER Craigentinny maintenance depot in Edinburgh, integrating new RFID-based protection technology with existing depot infrastructure.
Importantly, the maintenance depot remained operational throughout the upgrade programme.
The Requirement
The project required an existing Depot Protection System to be upgraded while minimising disruption to ongoing maintenance operations.
Rather than unnecessarily replacing serviceable infrastructure, FirstClass developed a solution capable of integrating new technology with existing equipment.
The system also needed to provide a straightforward method for personnel to access and use the protection system.
The FirstClass Solution
FirstClass delivered a full turnkey package encompassing hardware and software design, build, installation, commissioning and training.
The RFID-based Depot Protection System enables operatives to log on and off individual roads and working zones.
When personnel are logged into a protected area, the system prevents vehicle movements into the relevant road or zone.
Integration & Technical Capability
Existing beacons and sounders on the cleaning and repair roads were integrated into the upgraded system.
FirstClass also integrated the Security System’s RFID reader technology into the new Depot Protection System. This enabled personnel to use a single RFID tag for both applications, simplifying day-to-day use while retaining the required protection functionality.
The approach demonstrates the flexibility of FirstClass systems and their ability to integrate new safety technology with existing depot infrastructure and third-party systems.
Maintaining Depot Operations
A particularly important aspect of the project was maintaining the operational availability of the depot throughout the upgrade works.
The system was therefore delivered within an active maintenance environment, requiring careful planning and coordination throughout installation and commissioning.
The Outcome
Craigentinny demonstrates how an existing Depot Protection System can be upgraded without requiring wholesale replacement of serviceable infrastructure.
Combining new RFID technology with the existing Security System’s RFID reader technology provided effective personnel protection, simplified RFID use and maximised the value of existing depot assets while the maintenance facility remained operational.