I was very impressed by the induction process for Align JV.
As part of my new role as labour manager, I am supporting our teams working on the HS2 projects phase 1 in the southern sections. I visit each of ‘my’ sites regularly to make sure our workforce feels supported. I also arrange for the different elements of the huge HS2 project to have the people they need at the right time.
Every site has its own induction procedure. People learn what the project is about, and what the site process are to ensure everyone on site stays safe and well. That includes the location of canteen and toilets; the nearest hospital, the first aid points, the fire marshals and other emergency procedures, as well as site rules like no mobile phones on site. For some small sites that’s a quick chat with the project manager. But for really big sites, where there are complex issues and a very large number of different work packages that make up the whole, it’s important to take the time to understand all the different elements.
On Align JV the induction suite is at the HS2 south portal at Maple Cross. It contains a detailed scale model of a tunnel boring machine (TBM).
The model shows the 170m long TBM which is cutting through the Chiltern Hills. Local school children voted to call the machine ‘Florence’ after Florence Nightingale, who lived for many years in Buckinghamshire.
There’s also an interactive a map showing the HS2 route from London to Birmingham. What was most impressive was the virtual walkthrough of the new line. Each of us was given the chance to use an ipad to see the virtual tunnel build. It’s great to see this type of technology being introduced to keep people engaged.
Thank you to Laura and Jude who led the day. I’ve been in the construction industry for over 10 years, and I’ve never had a more positive, engaging and informative induction.
