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Staying Safe on the Tracks: Electrical Safety in the UK Rail Industry

Ahead of Rail Live, PENTA was featured in the official Rail Live preview – a testament to their commitment to electrical safety and innovation in the UK rail sector.

As the UK rail network continues to expand and electrify in pursuit of greener, more sustainable transport, the safety of workers operating near high-voltage infrastructure has never been more important. Electrical safety equipment plays a critical role in ensuring that rail engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel can carry out their work without compromising their wellbeing or the operational integrity of the network. One of the most critical aspects of this is the effective use of electrical safety equipment.

At Thorne & Derrick, we are proud to supply PENTA’s cutting-edge electrical safety solutions — trusted worldwide by major rail operators and utility companies.

For expert advice, technical support, or to request a quotation on PENTA Electrical Safety Products, contact Thorne & Derrick — the UK’s leading specialist distributor of electrical safety equipment for the rail industry.

Electrification of the UK Rail Network

A significant portion of the UK rail network is powered by electricity, primarily through overhead line equipment (OLE) and third-rail systems. These OLE systems typically support high-voltage – up to 25,000 volts AC on overhead lines and 750 volts DC in third-rail systems.

These systems are the backbone for greater transportation and reduced environmental impact. As such, they require careful monitoring and protection, not only for the smooth operation of the network but also for the safety of personnel and the public.

The Role of Electrical Safety Equipment

Reliable electrical safety equipment is vital for professionals exposed to high-voltage environments. This includes workers conducting routine inspections, maintenance, fault-finding, and emergency response.

One of the leading providers of such solutions is PENTA, a company renowned for its pioneering work in electrical safety systems. Their advanced electrical test and measurement devices are indispensable for workers operating near energised equipment. This unique solution is tailored for professionals engaged in maintenance, rescue operations, switching, pruning, and other activities in high-risk electrical environments.

A key advantage is the ability to address critical risk factors such as unplanned proximity to voltage sources, untagged work zones, or mistakenly energised circuits.

PENTA’s safety equipment is designed for day-to-day maintenance workers to safely address the risks and keep service disruptions to a minimum. They make the worksite safer by automating tasks like tension testing and voltage detection.

By introducing electrical test equipment indoors and outdoors, rail operators are better positioned to reduce workforce downtime and increase service safety. These devices are designed to stand up to harsh conditions and are tailored to ensure accurate, repeatable results under stress.

One device developed by PENTA for rail-specific use is the Overhead Line Tester Kit.

Designed to test conformity to international standards (specifically to Operational Safety in the Rail Industry (RIS-0703-NK Issue 01) and the British Standard BS EN 50110).

Key Products for the Rail Sector

• Overhead Line Tester Kits – Designed for rapid voltage presence detection with multi-level alerts, visual indicators, and high-visibility displays

• Temporary Earthing Devices – Ensure safe access to electrified infrastructure during maintenance

• CTS Tension Meter – Provides real-time measurements of catenary wire tension to prevent failures and improve reliability

• Smart Voltage Detectors – Enable safe, remote voltage presence testing with wireless functionality and data logging

These tools are crucial for both planned maintenance and emergency response, helping to minimise downtime, prevent accidents, and improve overall network reliability.

Safe operation of the rail system

The use of these systems supports the safe operation of services. Equipment such as circuit breakers, surge arresters, and grounding systems are designed to protect lives, infrastructure and expensive rolling stock from severe damage during electrical faults.

Real-time monitoring of electrical status helps to significantly reduce the risks associated with scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, allowing workers to complete tasks before serious failures create service disruptions or injuries.

The CTS Tension Meter provides precise, real-time measurements of tension in overhead catenary systems, ensuring that rail infrastructure meets the highest standards of safety and reliability, offering unmatched precision and ease of use for rail engineers and technicians.

The CTS Tension Meter has already garnered interest from key players in the rail industry, with several major rail networks adopting the technology to enhance both inspection and maintenance routines. By providing real-time, accurate data, the CTS allows operators to make informed decisions, helping them avoid costly disruptions and accidents caused by incorrect tension on the contact wire.

Regulatory framework & training

The UK’s Office of Rail and Road (ORR) mandates strict adherence to health and safety regulations, including the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

These laws require employers to ensure electrical systems are properly maintained and not to present danger. This includes a practical role to prevent all personnel working with or close to energised systems or who may accidentally encounter live equipment using proper equipment use, and emergency procedures.

Rail safety leaders also continue to reflect the importance of up-to-date equipment and following established safety protocols.

Embracing Electrical Safety innovation

With advancements in technology, the rail industry is seeing improvements in the reliability of voltage presence meters and fault detection systems. Smart systems now offer GPS location services, cloud-connected monitoring and automation tools. All powered by secure software platforms.

Not only reduce the risk of accidents but also improve the efficiency of maintenance and safety procedures. Innovations such as sensor-equipped gloves and IoT-enabled alerting kits that report deployment status in real-time – is a glimpse into how the future of rail safety is becoming both smarter and more connected.

The UK rail industry’s commitment to electrifying large stretches of the network to drive sustainability comes with several challenges. Providers like PENTA are helping to provide cutting-edge tools that address those challenges head-on – protecting the people that power the operational backbone of our rail system.

Contact Thorne & Derrick

Whether you’re planning overhead line maintenance, upgrading your safety protocols, or responding to a network emergency, we’ll help ensure your team is equipped with the most advanced, compliant, and reliable electrical equipment available.

We supply the full range of PENTA Solutions, including:

• Voltage Detection Systems

• Overhead Line Testing Kits

• Conductor Wear & Tension Monitoring Tools

• Temporary Earthing Equipment

• Personal Protection Solutions

High Voltage Cable Drum Trailers for Utility Projects

High Voltage Cables

Kicking of H2 with another CD500 manufactured by SEB International Ltd to support Utility project cable-pulls at 132/400kV, bound for the Grid – this is our largest Cable Drum Trailer build to date. An outstanding achievement in UK manufacturing excellence and Distributor partnership to lead the powering of global projects.

Customised to client specification to handle HV Cable Drums – should you require assistance with the Pull-in, Cable Termination, Jointing & Energisation of HV Cable Networks please continue to contact our Team. With global electricity demand forecast to double by 2050, Thorne & Derrick are perfectly positioned to meet all your major project constructions and cable fault repair works – our business can now provide technical specifications, competitive pricing and delivery commitments to enable transformer, switchgear and overhead line connections from 600V to 66/132kV polymeric cables up to 2000sqmm.

Further Case Applications

• Cable Drum Trailer Manufactured for Major High Voltage Power Project
• Cable Drum Handling | Jack Towers for LV to EHV Cable Lifting & Site Handling

Celebrating Our Community: Charities Supported by Thorne & Derrick in the First Half of 2025

Building Stronger Durham Communities: Our 2025 Partners

In the first half of 2025, we’ve had the privilege of supporting fifteen remarkable organisations across County Durham – groups that are transforming lives through sports, wellbeing programs, cultural enrichment, and essential community services.

These partnerships represent our shared commitment to:
• Strengthening neighbourhoods through improved facilities and gathering spaces
• Empowering young people with developmental opportunities
• Promoting wellbeing across all generations
• Celebrating local culture that binds communities together

We’re continually inspired by the dedication of these organisations and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their meaningful work. Below, we highlight the initiatives we’ve supported – not as a measure of our giving, but as recognition of their invaluable community impact.

Encouraging Sports & Youth Development

Darlington Football Club Foundation CIO (Park West, Darlington)

• Project: Think With Your Feet – engaging young adults (19-25)

• Approved: 23/01/2025

Consett & District Cricket Club (Consett North)

• Project: New sightscreens for young cricketers (5-12 years)

• Approved: 13/02/2025

Burnmoor Cricket Lawn Tennis Club & Institute (Lumley, North Durham)

• Project: Facility improvements for all ages

• Approved: 27/03/2025

Durham Association Boys & Girls Clubs (North Lodge, North Durham)

• Project: Wellbeing Summer Programme 2025 for teenagers (13-18)

• Approved: 27/03/2025

Sports and youth clubs play a crucial role in keeping communities active and connected.

Youth & Wellbeing Initiatives

Pelton Fell Community Partnership (Chester-le-Street West Central)

• Project: Friday Night youth club for children (5-12)

• Approved: 06/03/2025

Wellbeing 4 Men CIC (Tudhoe, Bishop Auckland)

• Project: Educational programme for boys & young men (11-25)

• Approved: 19/06/2025

Framwellgate Moor Youth & Community Association (Framwellgate & Newton Hall, Durham)

• Project: Wellbeing Tuesdays for all ages

• Approved: 19/06/2025

Dare North East CIC (Neville’s Cross, Durham)

• Project: Step Into It – adult wellbeing programme (26-65)

• Approved: 19/06/2025

Mental health and wellbeing are at the heart of strong communities.

️ Empowering Adults & Older Generations

Endeavour Woodcrafts CIC (Ferryhill, Sedgefield)

• Project: Security roller shutters for their workshop

• Beneficiaries: Adults (26-65)

• Approved: 13/02/2025

Sacriston Community Association (Sacriston, North Durham)

• Project: The People’s Project for older people (66+)

• Approved: 17/04/2025

The Allotment Project CIC (Deerness, Durham)

• Project: Growing Together – supporting adults (26-65)

• Approved: 15/05/2025

Sedgefield Out Of School Fun Club (Sedgefield)

• Project: New outdoor canopy for children (5-12)

• Approved: 19/06/2025

From skill-building to social support, these projects help people thrive at every stage of life.

Celebrating Arts & Culture

Durham Fringe CIC (Belmont, Durham)

• Project: Supporting the Durham Fringe Festival

• Beneficiaries: All ages

• Approved: 11/06/2025

Arts and culture bring vibrancy to our communities, and we’re proud to back this exciting festival.

About Thorne and Derrick International

Thorne & Derrick International are UK based and are the leading specialist distributors of LV, MV and HV cable accessories and tooling from 600V to 132kV complemented by an extensive range of hazardous area certified electrical equipment (ATEX and IECEx) to provide compliant, safe and optimised power, heating and lighting. Thorne and Derrick International supports critical infrastructure projects across power, utilities, rail, construction, oil & gas, marine, and process industries. With over 40 years of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick International delivers trusted products, technical support, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the energy and industrial process markets.

Driving Sustainability and Innovation: NEPIC’s Cluster Connect Event 2025

The NEPIC June 2025 Cluster Connect event, hosted at 3M’s Newton Aycliffe facility, was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders to discuss sustainability, electrical innovation and collaborative growth. Among the highlights were the insightful presentations by Terry McDonald, representing Thorne & Derrick International, and Jenny Swindells from 3M Electrical, who shared their expertise on how the electrical sector is evolving to meet future challenges.

Terry McDonald: A Legacy of Electrical Innovation

Terry McDonald’s presentation delved into the long-standing partnership between Thorne & Derrick and 3M, showcasing how their collaboration has driven advancements in electrical infrastructure, cable jointing, and LV MV HV substation equipment. With decades of experience in the industry, Terry provided a fascinating look into how Thorne & Derrick has been at the forefront of HV and LV electrical solutions, supporting critical projects across the UK and beyond.

Key takeaways from Terry’s talk included:

• The importance of sustainable electrical solutions in modern infrastructure.

• How innovation in cable jointing and termination technologies is shaping safer, more efficient power distribution using Cold Shrink technology pioneered by 3M Electrical.

• The historical journey of Thorne & Derrick and its alignment with 3M’s vision for a greener future.

Attendees left with a deeper appreciation for how industry partnerships can accelerate progress, ensuring that the electrical sector remains resilient and forward-thinking.

Jenny Swindells: 3M’s Commitment to Sustainability

Jenny Swindells, representing 3M, delivered an engaging presentation on sustainability in the electrical sector, emphasising how material science and innovation are paving the way for eco-friendly advancements.

Her discussion highlighted

• 3M’s cutting-edge developments in electrical insulation, Scotchcast Resin, safety products, and renewable energy solutions.

• The role of circular economy principles in reducing waste and improving efficiency.

• How collaboration between companies like 3M and Thorne & Derrick fosters industry-wide progress.

The site tour of 3M’s Newton Aycliffe facility further reinforced these insights, giving attendees a first-hand look at the ground-breaking work being done behind the scenes.

A Morning of Networking and Inspiration

The event was a fantastic opportunity for professionals across the Northeast Process Industry Cluster (NEPIC) to connect, share ideas, and explore future collaborations. The combination of expert insights, facility tours, and networking made it a truly enriching experience.

A huge thank you to 3M hosting such an inspiring event. The discussions on sustainability, innovation, and partnership have set the stage for even greater advancements in the electrical sector.

About Thorne and Derrick International

Thorne & Derrick International are UK based and are the leading specialist distributors of LV, MV and HV cable accessories, joints, terminations and tooling from 600V to 132kV complemented by an extensive range of hazardous area certified electrical equipment (ATEX and IECEx) to provide compliant, safe and optimised power, heating and lighting.

Thorne and Derrick International supports critical infrastructure projects across power, utilities, rail, construction, oil & gas, marine, and process industries.

With over 40 years of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick International delivers trusted products, technical support, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the energy and industrial process markets.

Thick Cable Sheath Removal in Tight Spaces with the Ripley US15 PRO MAX

How Good Is The Ripley US15 PRO MAX?

A must have for your cable jointing tool box, the Ripley US15 PRO MAX is the perfect solution for precise safe cable outer sheath jacket removal from LV MV HV power cables. Whether the cable is thin or thick, the US15 PRO MAX performs fully adjustable cuts on cable diameters from 38mm to 80mm, whilst maintaining the underlying layers of the cable.

The professional heavy-duty cable sheath jacket stripping tool can cut through many types of insulated material, including PE, XLPE, PVC, EPR, EPDM, TGGT, Silicone Rubber and Sealpic, creating clean ring, spiral and longitudinal cuts. Ultimately, the Ripley US15 eliminates the need for basic cable cutting tools, improving safety, preventing possible cable damage, and delivering reliable results.

• Flexible and adjustable blade position and cutting depth
• Suitable for hard and soft insulated power cables with diameter of 38mm – 80mm
• Compatible with a number of varied insulated materials

How do I remove the cable outer sheath after cutting? The Ripley US15-7020 Cable Sheath & Jacket Lifting Tool is the safest solution for lifting a jacket from a LV MV HV power cable, rather than using a standard knife.

Thick Cable sHEATH rEMOVAL, Close Quarters, No Problem!

The Ripley US15 PRO MAX made this job effortless. Challenged with an incredibly thick cable outer sheath jacket (around 65mm diameter) in a small space, Harvey selected the US15 PRO MAX to solve the limited flexibility hurdle.

Starting with a circumferential cut, then seamlessly switching to a spiral cut and pushing up to create a quick, easy and effective slice. Due to the power cable being in an awkward position and thick insulation, the cable was difficult to bend. Using the Ripley US15 PRO MAX was the ideal tool to spiral the cable and manoeuvre the debris. In this case, Harvey used a standard knife to pop and unwrap the cable outer sheath jacket from the cable.

RIPLEY Tools

Experts in Cable Jointing Tool Design 

Founded in 1936, Ripley are market-leaders in manufacturing equipment, tools and technology for specialised applications. Offering a pioneering approach to product design, has enabled Ripley to create innovative tools that solve the everyday challenges faced by linemen, cable engineers, technicians and installers. Including complete ranges of FO LV MV HV cable preparation tools, designed to enable the stripping and removal of cable sheath/jacket, and LV MV HV cable jointing tools, purposed for the jointing of LV HV HV power cables.

As well as the Ripley US15 PRO MAX, Thorne & Derrick are also stockists and suppliers of the complete Ripley Tools range, including Ripley US15-7000 (10mm to 60mm cable diameter) and Ripley US15-7010 PRO (10mm to 60mm cable diameter) Cable Sheath Jacket Stripping Tools. We offer competitive pricing, excellent customer service and fast worldwide delivery, for a seamless buying experience.

Contact our experts and discuss your cable tooling requirements.