Fugro To Deploy Unique Rila Technology In Network Rail Contract Win

The contract is a long-term partnership between Network Rail and Fugro that sees Fugro’s train-mounted RILA™ solution removing many hours of on-site activities to deliver highly accurate rail infrastructure information; additional survey services will be provided by UK-based Severn Partnership.

The unique technology was first introduced to the High Output function - the Network Rail team responsible for the renewal of strategic sections of the network - in 2015. RILA provides rapid, route-wide acquisition of data together with value-added imagery and video as a desktop tool. It is now acknowledged as proven technology, certified by Network Rail to Survey Accuracy Band 1A, and was successfully used to deliver data covering over 650,000 yards of renewals sites for workbanks in England, Scotland and Wales. The result was fewer ‘boots on ballast’ and accelerated project delivery times.

Fugro’s RILA concept demonstrates effective application of technical innovation, helping Network Rail deliver significant health and safety benefits by supporting the reduction of the number of people subject to on track activities when carrying out site surveys. Deployed to conduct surveys on a route-by-route basis, it will also allow Network Rail to utilise survey data of track sections between renewal sites for other route project requirements, having a positive impact on time, cost and safety.

Speaking on the award of the contract, Jeroen Huiskamp, Global Director Rail, Fugro said, “RILA is game-changer technology; its operational flexibility, improved safety levels, highly accurate data and very attractive cost level set it apart from traditional track survey methods. We look forward to RILA’s continued deployment on Britain’s railways.”