QTS takes control of worker safety with Tele Radio
A leading rail contractor has implemented safer work conditions and improved operational efficiency thanks to bespoke control solutions from Tele Radio.
QTS Group is a major UK railway contractor, employing more than 700 people. It provides comprehensive services across disciplines including vegetation management, drainage services, fencing, civil engineering, electrification, IRATA rope access and specialist plant fleet hire.
The company recognised it was using outdated tethered controls for some of its plant equipment and reached out to Tele Radio for advice. Working together, the two companies created a customised remote-control solution for some of QTS’ key plant equipment. A wireless solution takes safety to a higher level as operators keep their distance from machines, while also improving their view.
“Safety is deeply embedded in our culture,” said Marcus Edwards, plant compliance and special projects supervisor at QTS Group. “While our workers all follow strict safety protocols, the wired controls we were using had limited functionality. This meant that workers periodically had to get close to the machines to carry out certain tasks.”
“Tele Radio has provided us with a wireless solution that virtually eliminates the need to be close to the equipment, as we can now remotely activate all these functions from the controls instead of on the machine.”
Previously, QTS Group employees involved in clearing vegetation had to press buttons on the compactors to compact and shred branches and shrubs. Tele Radio has built this functionality into the new remote controls, so that workers can be a safe distance away when the compactor activates. Similarly, functions that used to require manual intervention on cable drum carriers can now be successfully completed via remote control.
“Safety was our priority and is the biggest win for us,” added Edwards. “However, reducing the amount of time that workers have to go back and forth to activate machine functions has also improved our operational efficiency.”
Tele Radio tailored its TEQ line of remote controls to meet the specific needs of QTS Group. PLe CAT 3 rated, Tele Radio’s TEQ line was designed for integration of a wide variety of functions into a single pack, including inputs, outputs, and feedback.
“Tele Radio took the time to understand exactly what we needed, then tailor the product specifically for us,” said Edwards. “As the project developed, they were able to be flexible, adapting the design to keep the project on track.”
Tele Radio’s TEQ line waist transmitters come in two versions. The Basic Line is equipped with standard components and specifications, designed as an off-the-shelf solution serving a large part of the market at an attractive price. For more exceptional applications, the TEQ Custom Line offers full customisation.
To find out more about Tele Radio’s UK solutions, visit: https://www.tele-radio.com/gb/products/teq-waist-transmitter/ - or for outside the UK, visit https://www.tele-radio.com/products/teq-waist-transmitter/.
