Informed solutions, stronger outcomes.
From new vehicle projects, fleet modifications, or the use of novel technologies, we provide experienced, pragmatic and practical support across the full approvals and safety management process.Getting the approvals strategy right at the outset makes a material difference to project risk and cost. We work with clients early to establish a clear pathway through to entry into service.We are pleased to provide end-to-end support for the application of the Common Safety Method for Risk Assessment, chairing structured hazard identification sessions, or providing key technical subject matter experts. We also provide guidance and support through standards compliance and the vehicle authorisation process.We are equally comfortable acting as embedded members of a project team, or as specialist advisors on a particular technical matter. Our engagements range from short-term reviews through to multi-year programme support — structured to suit the needs of the project rather than a standard offering.If you have a project that would benefit from additional safety or approvals expertise, we would be pleased to discuss how we might help.
Enspired provided safety management support to Vanguard Sustainable Transport Solutions’ HydroShunter project, which converted a Class 08 locomotive to use a hydrogen fuel cell and battery hybrid traction system. Enspired’s work included:
- Independent review of the CSM-REA process
- Attending Critical Design Reviews
- Providing hydrogen and battery safety expertise
Embedded as part of the Rail Operations Group team, Enspired worked on the management of the safety submissions, documentation and updates relating to the CSM-REA process and internal reviews of operational procedures. Work included closing out feedback logs from the AsBo, working internally with colleagues to update operational processes and working with suppliers to close out hazards to move towards
Building on our earlier work to compare the transportation of hydrogen by road with the rail requirements, Enspired was part of the Freightliner and Network Rail team that transported hydrogen by rail on Britain’s rail network for the first time. This included:
Working with Freightliner and Network Rail to produce safety documentation for the rail move
Completing risk assessments and safety plans for the event
Feasibility and technical assurance for the use of Multi-Element Gas Containers to move hydrogen in rail freight
Vanguard, supported by Enspired as technical advisors, is currently developing its own hydrogen and battery conversion of a Class 08 shunter at the Severn Valley Railway (SVR). This project (which has been self-funded by Vanguard) uses a large lead acid battery to power the vehicle, with a small hydrogen fuel cell to recharge the battery. The concept and detailed design, safety management and conversion work has been led entirely by Vanguard, with the donor vehicle repairs managed by the SVR. The team have researched the market options for battery technology, worked with suppliers to identify suitable products, managed the integration of these major items into the existing vehicle, and completed all safety and functional testing to ensure they are working safely.
HydroShunter has already been commissioned and tested in battery-only mode, all hydrogen equipment is now installed and hydrogen system commissioning is due to start imminently. [Original bid text if Ghost need an
