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The biggest challenge will be to retain the title next year. “We’re always striving to improve the reliability of the fleet,” says Steve Price. To achieve this, South West Trains has founded three Centres of Excellence, two for train presentation at Clapham and Fratton, and one for engineering at Wimbledon (expected to be fully operational by April 2005). It’s a major initiative designed to enhance Fleet’s existing skills and ensure everyone works to the same high standards. “The Centres of Excellence are places where people can develop ideas without being under every day production pressure, so they can look at industry best practice, alternative ways of doing things and reliability issues, and work out solutions,” says Mac.
But while Fleet are working ever harder to keep trains fully maintained and in active service, they face one major barrier: vandalism. Graffiti and other types of vandalism cause endless frustration for the team, as repairing the damage wastes valuable time that could be better spent on other trains. In the next issue of e-motion, we’ll be looking at the problem of vandalism and graffiti in more depth.
Darren Wallis
Fitter, Salisbury |
“I’m responsible for the lighting, power and machines in the depot itself. The variety is great but the worst thing I have to do is fix the toilet pumps when they go wrong—it’s messy!”
Steve Price
Fleet Manager, Wimbledon |
“South West Trains Passengers expect a clean, reliable and available train, and it’s our aim to deliver this as best we can.”
Bob Hudson
Service Planner, Wimbledon |
“It’s my job to coordinate getting all the trains into the shed from their berthing points and back into service. The award means something because it’s nice to get some recognition.”
John Perry
Train Presentation, Wimbledon |
“The best thing about my job is undoubtedly my team.”
Martin Brown
Fitter, Bournemouth |
“There’s a really good group of people here and a great sense of camaraderie.”
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