Van Elle Rail colleagues attended Amey’s Step Up Day at Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester on 16 April, a planned safety stand-down event supporting the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) West scheme.
The event provided an important opportunity to pause ahead of a busy 2026 delivery programme and refocus on what “stepping up to safety” means for all those delivering works across the major rail infrastructure project.
Held twice a year, Step Up Days play a vital role in reinforcing a strong and consistent safety culture across the TRU West supply chain. As a supply chain partner, we supported the event through attendance, hosting, and facilitation.
Sharing learning and improving safety performance
Our session focused on operational learning and continuous improvement, particularly in relation to the safe use of plant and equipment across rail construction activities.
A key message throughout was the importance of positive challenge at all levels. Attendees were encouraged to speak up and question anything that does not appear safe, correct, or in line with expected standards – reinforcing the principle that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
Demonstrating best practice in plant and equipment use
To support learning and engagement, a video presentation was delivered highlighting best practice and ongoing improvements across the industry, as well as the steps being taken within our business to strengthen safe systems of work.
The event also included practical demonstrations. A machine display showcased how different attachments can influence load distribution and measurement, helping to raise awareness of important safety considerations during lifting and operating activities.
In addition, the Movax simulation machine was available for attendees, offering a hands-on experience of equipment operation and a better understanding of real site challenges and safe working practices.
Reinforcing a strong safety culture across TRU West
The Step Up Day provided a valuable opportunity to reinforce our ongoing commitment to rail safety, open communication, and continuous improvement across the TRU West programme.
By encouraging open challenge and shared learning, events such as these continue to strengthen collaboration across the supply chain and support the safe delivery of one of the UK’s most significant rail infrastructure upgrades.
For more information on our rail services visit: van-elle.co.uk/rail-engineering