Going live

Alan Dick Communications (ADComms) has made a 'live' rail simulator resource at its Scunthorpe training academy available to the wider industry as it continues to host an ever-increasing number of workplace training sessions and assessments.

Forming a central part of the training process for rail engineers, ADComms' simulation facility provides a platform on which new telecoms can be trialled, integrated and developed, as well as giving trainees undertaking IRSE (Institution of Railway Signal Engineers) workplace assessments valuable, 'live' rail experience. This is typically a significant problem facing IRSE candidates as it is difficult to arrange training on a live site.

"This exposure to next generation technology enhances students' experience and provokes fresh, innovative approaches to problem solving and industry thinking," Jason Pearce, chief executive at ADComms, said: "Live, on-track experience is crucial for trainee engineers, but getting this in a safe and timely manner can often prove impractical. We believe our 'as live' simulation area can prove a strong alternative for engineers seeking to get this valuable experience."

ADComms claims it has also appointed one of the UK's first IRSE rail telecoms competency assessors to review workplace assessments and guarantee trainee competency, which must be determined before an IRSE licence is granted.