West Midlands Metro has become the latest UK tramway to benefit from cutting-edge simulator technology developed in partnership with the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB).
A new system that faithfully recreates an operational control room environment is now up and running at the Metro’s Training Academy in Wednesbury and will play a key role in training new and existing staff as the network prepares for the opening of new routes.
Anthony Stanley, Head of Operations and Safety at West Midlands Metro, explained: “The Operational Control Centre (OCC) is at the heart of the entire network, and it requires a highly skilled team to ensure our trams run safely and efficiently.
“They are essentially the air traffic controllers of the light rail world, and need to be able to react safely, quickly and effectively when there is an unexpected incident that could interrupt services or present a safety risk.
“These scenarios can be recreated in the simulator without any disruptions to services, helping to train new and existing members of the team in a controlled environment so they are ready to meet any challenges they may face when working in the real control centre.”
In addition to recreating the existing network in the virtual world, the simulator is also modelling the expanded Metro, featuring new lines that are set to open over the next few years.
“As well as enabling controllers to familiarise themselves with the new routes, this will enable us to develop and stress test timetables ahead of the launch of new services,” Anthony said.
The investment of around £90,000 by West Midland Metro in the OCC simulator follows significant work by the LRSSB on the initial development of the technology. Previously it worked in partnership with rail simulator specialists Avansim on successful trials of the system by Edinburgh Trams.
Carl Williams, LRSSB Chief Executive, commented: “We’re delighted that another tramway is now benefitting from a pioneering project that’s more than proven its worth in further enhancing tramway safety and efficiency.
“We’re now looking forward to working with even more light rail operators to ensure they benefit from our initial work on this game-changing technology.”
