The tabloid style publication is a collaboration between Network Rail and its supply chain partners BAM Nuttall, BCM Construction, Costain, HVMS, McNicholas, Osborne, Siemens and VolkerFitzpatrick.

The group, known as the Southern Shield is committed to improving the safety of and creating better working environments for everyone working on the railway network.  

The first edition, which has just been issued to the industry, is aimed at workers on the frontline. It digs deep into basic safety and looks at ways of improving sites, refining working behaviours and highlights best practice.

John Cox, managing director, VolkerFitzpatrick – Rail said: “I am delighted to announce the launch of ‘The Shield’. Improving safety on sites around the rail network is of the upmost importance to us and the other Southern Shield partners.

“Through working together, I hope we can make a real difference to the rail industry in the Southern Region and ensure everyone returns home safely every day. 

"I hope ‘The Shield’ inspires its readers to think more about how they go about their work and make changes which will help eliminate incidents and injuries.”

‘The Shield’ will also be used in toolbox talks, site briefings and inductions to help promote safer working and gain feedback from the readers and be issued quarterly to site and office staff.