UGL's joint venture transport business, Canberra Metro Operations, has won the TrackSAFE Foundation Award for Keeping Communities Safe On & Around Rail. This award was for their School Accessibility & Inclusion Liaison (SAIL) rail safety program at the Australasian Rail Industry Awards, hosted by the Australasian Railway Association.
The SAIL program supports students with disabilities by promoting rail safety through a blend of theoretical education and practical activations. One of the highlights of the program is engaging students who live with a disability to record public service announcements on safety and transport etiquette. These announcements are broadcasted at stops during the week leading up to the International Day of People With Disabilities, making rail safety information both accessible and relatable.
UGL’s Phil Kershaw, General Manager of Transport Operations, attended the event and commented on the award: “What's great about this program is the practical way it engages people with a disability using the network, to help them be safe when interacting with the railway. This inclusive effort not only empowers these individuals but also enhances their confidence and safety when navigating the railway system.”
The TrackSAFE Foundation, established by the Australasian Railway Association and UGL in 2012, is Australia’s only harm prevention charity focused on reducing deaths, injuries, and near hits on the rail network. In addition to their safety initiatives, TrackSAFE is committed to improving the wellbeing of rail employees. Rail Safety Week, TrackSAFE’s annual awareness campaign, aims to engage both rail industry workers and the broader community in fostering safe rail practices.
At UGL, safety underpins everything we do. The health and safety of our work environments are our top priorities, encompassing the wellbeing of our people, clients, subcontractors, suppliers, visitors, and the broader community.