What are standards and why does Network Rail need them?

Network Rail standards are a core component of our Health and Safety Management System. They:

• provide a framework that helps to manage safety, sustainability, operational and technical risks in the design, construction and operation of transport infrastructure
• establish a consistent, safe and coherent set of policies, processes and guidance that apply across Network Rail and our supply chain
• provide a consistent way to meet regulatory and legal responsibilities
• can improve use of resources, leading to greater efficiency and productivity and preventing unnecessary long-term operational costs. Network Rail has a proven track record in significantly reducing costs by implementing new or updated standards.

All Network Rail people (including contractors and suppliers) are expected to adhere to all of the Network Rail standards that are relevant to their roles. 

Which standards relate to environment and sustainability?

Can’t access the link to a Network Rail standard?

If you’re an external supplier and need to access our standards, please use the supplier portal. More information is available on this page- Reviewing our standards – Network Rail. If you do not have an account for the supplier portal, you can request one here – Network Rail – Standards Account Request 

What is the process for challenging a standard?

A guide to the standards challenge process for suppliers, contractors and stakeholders can be found on the Network Rail website: Reviewing our standards – Network Rail.

Internal users can submit suggestions for improvement to standards by emailing the appropriate Standard Owner.