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How to become a network rail supplier as an SME

The extensive supply chain network plays a huge role in the delivery of new Network Rail projects as well as the day-to-day running and maintenance of the railway.

You may have read all about the Network Rail SME action plan that aimed to increase spending with SMEs (if not then have a read of our SME action plan blog). But how, as an SME, can you get your products approved for use by Network Rail and become a Network Rail approved supplier?

As you can imagine, with any products used on public services and with public safety at risk, there are multiple accreditations and memberships you will need as well as specifications to adhere to in order to ensure a safe and efficient railway for all.

Here at Rail Signalling and Power Ltd, we are Network Rail approved suppliers and thought we would share an insight about the level of accreditation and lengthy processes involved in becoming a Network Rail supplier as an SME.

PADS approved products

To ensure products and systems are safe, reliable, compatible and fit for purpose many (such as signalling, electrification, power and plant products) must undergo Parts and Drawing Systems (PADS) approval and product acceptance in line with the Network Rail standard NR/L2/RSE/100/05.

PADS approval ensures these controlled products and systems in use on the rail way conform to technical standards, legislation and specifications, mitigating any unnecessary risk, whilst aligning with the Rail Technical Strategy.

Controlled products must go through approval if they are new or have been modified in any way, if the application of the product has changed or if the manufacturer or manufacturing location of a controlled critical product has changed, if the product is being installed by another company where compatibility may be an issue.

How to apply for PADS approval

Applications for PADS approval can only be submitted once the product has reached Rail Industry Readiness Level (RIRL) 6; TRL6 for technology and RRL7 for reliability. Application must be done by a Network Rail operative who is able to demonstrate adequate benefits to the railway for the products. This may be financial, safey-based and/or performance-based benefits.

PADS approved products at RSP

Here at RSP we specialise in PADS approved products. All our products, where required, are PADS approved so we can be confident in what we supply to the rail industry as part of the integral supply chain. You can view our PADS approved products here.

RISQS approved suppliers

If you contract directly with either Network Rail or Transport for London, then you are required to register with the Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme (RISQS). RISQS is the entry point for suppliers coming into the UK rail industry. It is run in cooperation with the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) to help reduce supply chain risk whilst improving efficiency and safety.

It also provides a fair and transparent platform from which Network rail and Transport for London can order from suppliers of all sizes, from SMEs to large corporations, streamlining the procurement process for both buyer and seller.

RISQS membership fee is based on the number of Railway Industry Commodity Classification List (RICCL) codes your business supplies to the Rail Industry. Some products on this list require the extra expense of an audit (those with an A code in the new system), particularly those where safety is paramount.

RISQS accreditation at RSP

Here at Rail Signalling and Power Ltd. we are both RISQS verified and audited, giving full peace of mind for the products that we supply to the rail industry.

Procurement and supply chain with Network Rail

Network Rail are keen to make themselves easier to do business with and so have streamlined their route to becoming a Network Rail approved supplier as well as aiming for more prompt payments for SMEs, encouraging and even sponsoring SME innovation to future proof the railways.

Here are the four main stages of becoming a Network Rail supplier as an SME:

  1. Registering on BravoNR, Network Rail’s end-to-end procurement system.
  2. As mentioned earlier, suppliers of safety-critical products direct to Network Rail must register with RISQS.
  3. You can read more about procurement at Network Rail on their site but key information and procurement opportunities will be listed on BravoNR.
  4. Ensure you are up-to-date with relevant Network Rail standards via the Network Rail standards portal.

Network Rail have a wealth of information for suppliers, both existing and potential, on their website.

You can find out more about our approved products in the RSP virtual catalogue, or speak to a member of our team if you have any questions about our PADS approved products. We also have a team of Institute of Rail and Signalling Engineers (IRSE) approved designers if you require a bespoke solution.