A Close Call is anything that has the potential to cause harm or damage. It may not have resulted in an incident yet, but if left unaddressed, it could. Reporting Close Calls helps prevent accidents, injuries, and damage to infrastructure, equipment, or the environment.

Examples of Network Rail Close Calls

These are typically reported via the Network Rail Close Call webform and include:

• Access gates left open or insecure

• Overgrown vegetation obstructing visibility or access

• Trip or slip hazards on site

• Damaged or missing signage

• Exposed electrical cables

• Unsecured tools or materials near the track

• Faulty or damaged fencing

• Obstructed walkways or emergency exits

• Lineside equipment left in unsafe positions

• Inadequate lighting in work areas

TES Close Calls are reported internally and may include:

• Office hazards (e.g. blocked fire exits, trailing cables)

• Unresolved documentation issues (e.g. missing permits or safety briefings)

• PPE or equipment defects (e.g. damaged helmets, expired harnesses)

• Unsafe working practices (e.g. working at height without fall protection)

• Incomplete site inductions or briefings

• Inadequate welfare facilities

• Incorrect use of plant or machinery

• Poor housekeeping on site (e.g. cluttered walkways, spills)

• Vehicle access issues or near misses in compounds

Reporting a Close Call is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents before they happen. It’s not about assigning blame—it’s about identifying risks early and taking action to protect yourself, your colleagues, and the public.

When you report a Close Call, you help to:

• Prevent Harm
  Every Close Call is a warning sign. Reporting it allows the issue to be addressed before it leads to injury, damage, or disruption.

• Create a Safer Workplace
  Your report contributes to a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility. It encourages others to stay alert and take action when they see something unsafe.

• Drive Improvements
  Close Call data helps identify trends, recurring issues, and areas for improvement. This leads to better training, safer processes, and more effective controls.

• Ensure Accountability
  Reporting ensures that hazards are logged, tracked, and resolved. It also provides a record of proactive safety management.

• Support Legal and Regulatory Compliance
  Demonstrating that risks are identified and managed helps meet the safety obligations of both Network Rail and TES2000.

• Get Feedback and Recognition
  When you include your contact details, you’ll receive updates on the outcome of your report—and your contribution to safety will be recognised.