DEFENDING THE ROLE OF THE GUARD

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: april 2018 :: RMTnews 16 The 2018 industrial organising conference of train crew and shunting grades pledged to continue to fight on both the industrial and campaigning fronts to defend the role of the guard when it met in Aberystwyth recently. Colin Rigby, Cambrian welcomed delegates to Aberystwyth explaining that the branch was proud to host the conference as the culmination of hard work and building local membership after it was re- established in 2013. The role of the guard and safety was a key theme of the conference. Billy Kim, Liverpool No 5 explained how TOCS had been allowed by successive governments and safety regulators to erode first aid provision on board trains. “We are concerned at the varying levels of knowledge and training given to the second member of on board staff on trains throughout the UK dependant on which TOC you work for or are travelling with,” he said. Conference backed his call for a minimum standard of training in first aid for the second member of on board staff. Jim Buchanan, Dorset Rail highlighted two recent examples where acid had been used as a weapon on trains on South Western Rail and called for additional kit to be able to help victims. “The inclusion of alkaline water in first aid kits can enable on train staff to assist victims as quickly as possible until emergency services can attend any incident,” Jim said. Speaking on safety standards, Kevin Morrison, Blackpool and Fylde proposed a unanimously backed motion calling for an agreed standard process for route learning. “Over the last couple of years it has become apparent that some train operating companies are being left to manage their own safety standards to the detriment of their own staff. “Particularly in terms of the level of briefing and instruction when it comes to route learning, TOCSs do not seem to be allocating enough resources in terms of materials and management support, especially when routes have been reopened after a long period of time due to major engineering weeks,” he said. RMT assistant general secretary Steve Hedley congratulated members of the grade who had been taking strike action on the various companies in defence of the role of the guard. “We are in a fight not just with the companies but with the DfT as these franchises were written by the DfT. “What we need is an industrial and political strategy to win these disputes. We need a political strategy because it is clear we are fighting with the government and there is no way we will be throwing in the towel DEFENDING THE ROLE OF THE GUARD Train crew and shunting conference delegates pledge to fight for rail safety