Nottingham Express Transit (NET) has bolstered its reputation for excellence with a string of successes at this year’s Global Light Rail Awards.
Shaun Kenneth, NET’s service delivery and security manager, was named Employee of the Year after being recognised for driving forward major improvements in the tram operator’s safety operations. This includes leading a series of innovative initiatives to tackle antisocial behaviour and strengthen partnerships with emergency services, such as the Operation Safenet pilot scheme which launched this summer.
Shaun Kenneth, service delivery and security manager at NET, said: “After working in the light rail industry for 17 years, this is an incredible honour for me. This recognition is not just a reflection of my individual efforts, but a testament to the supportive environment and team dedication we have here at NET, to help make these initiatives possible.
“Working alongside Nottinghamshire police to help launch Operation Safenet has been a real highlight for me, and it’s helped to further embed best practice to keep passengers safe on and around the tram network. NET is a vital part of Nottingham’s infrastructure and having the opportunity to lead on such important schemes to keep the city moving efficiently and safely, is a privilege.”
Other successes for NET included receiving ‘highly commended’ in the Technical Innovation of the Year Award category. This was awarded for the introduction of the groundbreaking safety innovation, Facing Point Indicator (FPI) Beacons, which were developed by the network’s engineering and quality, health, safety, and environment (QHSE) teams. Marking the first of their kind in UK light rail, the beacons alert drivers in real time when the facing points are misaligned, helping to significantly reduce the chances of derailment.
Elsewhere, NET was also shortlisted for a string of other categories. This included the Rising Star award, which saw QHSE business partner Ryan Breen nominated, as well as the Customer Initiative category.
Sarah Turner, managing director at NET, said: “These award wins are a reflection not only of our commitment to delivering high standards of safety and security across the network, but also our ability to innovate in the sector. They are also a testament to the hard work and dedication of many of our team who always go above and beyond to make our network something Nottingham can be proud of.
“We are always looking for smarter, safer and more efficient ways to serve our passengers and this will always remain the end goal for us here at NET.”
To find out more about NET, visit www.thetram.net