Comprehensive solutions for high-risk environments with expert consultancy, specialist training, and safety equipment
REAX Wins Multi-Year Tender to Provide Tailored Rope Rescue Training for Sellafield Fire and Rescue Teams
Sellafield, located on the coast of Cumbria, UK, is one of the most complex nuclear sites globally. With a history that dates back to the 1940s, the site evolved from a munitions factory to one of the world’s first commercial nuclear power stations. Today, Sellafield focuses on decommissioning, nuclear waste management, and safeguarding against legacy hazards.
Given the site’s high-risk nature, Sellafield’s Fire and Rescue teams play a crucial role in ensuring safety. These teams must be ready to respond to emergencies in everything from radioactive facilities to multi-level industrial structures.
In this blog, we’re giving you an inside look at how we tackled this challenge, but for the full, detailed breakdown, you can view the complete case study PDF here↗︎
REAX’s Role in Enhancing Safety at Sellafield
In 2021, REAX secured a prestigious three-year contract to provide bespoke Rope Rescue Operator and Rope Rescue Supervisor training for Sellafield’s Fire and Rescue Service. With Sellafield’s unique environment and risks, tailored rescue training was vital.
Key Components of the Training Program:
Rope Rescue Operator Training:
- Technical Expertise: REAX provides practical, hands-on training in rope rescue techniques, equipping the rescue teams with the skills needed to extract individuals from confined spaces or difficult-to-access locations.
- Advanced Equipment Use: The training includes the safe use of advanced rescue equipment, such as rope systems, pulleys, and harnesses.
- Real-World Scenarios: Simulating real-life emergencies that may arise at Sellafield, REAX prepares teams for high-risk scenarios, including confined spaces and hazardous materials.
Rope Rescue Supervisor Training:
- Leadership Skills: Supervisors receive additional training to enhance decision-making and leadership skills during rescue operations.
- Incident Command: Emphasizing coordination, the supervisor training ensures that teams are managed effectively during emergencies, with adherence to safety protocols.
Customised Training for Sellafield:
- Tailored Rescue Plans: The training is designed to address Sellafield’s specific challenges, focusing on rescue operations in hazardous environments, such as areas with radioactive materials.
- Compliance with Standards: REAX ensures that all training aligns with national and international safety standards, keeping Sellafield’s emergency response teams fully compliant.
Results:
REAX’s bespoke rope rescue training has strengthened Sellafield’s emergency response capabilities, ensuring that its Fire and Rescue teams are prepared to handle even the most complex and hazardous rescue operations. This partnership supports Sellafield’s mission to maintain safety and protect both personnel and the environment.
Discover the Full Case Study:
For more information about this project, read the detailed case study PDF here.
At REAX, we are committed to delivering bespoke solutions that meet the most challenging safety requirements. For more information on our services, or to discuss how we can help with your next project, get in touch today↗︎
Case Study Spotlight: Bespoke Skylotec ActSafe ACX Course & Consultancy for Water Valve Tower Operations
At REAX, we pride ourselves on developing tailored solutions to meet the unique challenges our clients face in demanding environments. Recently, we were approached by United Utilities to assist with a complex Confined Space and Rope Access project that required a specialised training and equipment solution. The goal? Safely remove multi-level gantry sections and service existing utilities inside water valve towers throughout the Northwest of the UK.
In this blog, we’re giving you an inside look at how we tackled this challenge, but for the full, detailed breakdown, you can view the complete case study PDF here↗︎
Here’s how we tackled the challenge.
The Challenge:
Navigating a 100m Deep Water Valve Tower
This was no ordinary project. With towers reaching depths of up to 100 meters, the work posed a unique set of challenges, including:
- Multiple Gantry Levels that needed dismantling while workers were suspended.
- Confined Space Hazards: Working in deep, vertical shafts classified as confined spaces.
- Lifting and Lowering Personnel & Equipment: Safe transport of large gantry sections and workers.
- Lack of Safe Systems of Work: The project required a clear Safe System of Work to ensure smooth and safe operations.
- Rescue Preparedness: Developing a reliable rescue plan for emergency situations in such a hazardous environment.
Without a doubt, this was a high-risk project, and a bespoke approach was essential to meet the unique requirements.
Our Solution:
Skylotec ActSafe ACX and Bespoke Training
Here’s how we delivered:
Skylotec ActSafe ACX Power Ascender: The Skylotec ActSafe ACX was identified as the ideal equipment for lifting and lowering personnel and equipment. With its remote operation feature, it offered flexibility and ensured that rescue operations could be conducted efficiently in case of emergencies.
Customised 5-Day Training Course: We developed a five-day bespoke training course, focusing on:
- Suspension work and gantry dismantling at height.
- Confined space procedures to reduce risks and ensure safety.
- Lifting, lowering, and rescue protocols using the Skylotec ActSafe ACX.
Developing a Safe System of Work (SSoW): A detailed SSoW was created, outlining procedures for safe entry, working at height, and effective rescue operations.
The Result:
A Successful and Safe Project
Thanks to our consultancy, training, and equipment solution, the project was a success. Key outcomes included:
- Fully Implemented Safe System of Work: Clear, safe processes for all tasks.
- Comprehensive Training: Engineers were fully trained to handle rope access, confined space work, and the Skylotec ActSafe ACX.
- Ongoing Support: We provided continued consultancy for future towers, ensuring safety and efficiency at all stages.
Learn More:
For a comprehensive breakdown of this project, including all the technical details and our complete approach, download the full case study PDF here↗︎
At REAX, we are committed to delivering bespoke solutions that meet the most challenging safety requirements. For more information on our services, or to discuss how we can help with your next project, get in touch today↗︎
Need Skylotec Milan Rescue Device Servicing? View How REAX Delivered for Gracon
At REAX Equipment, we’re more than just a servicing center—we’re your partner in safety and operational efficiency. Recently, we worked closely with Gracon on a significant project to service 48 Skylotec Milan AL-Trans Seal Pac Rescue Kits, ensuring their client in the wind energy sector faced minimal downtime.
In this blog, we’re giving you an inside look at how we tackled this challenge, but for the full, detailed breakdown, you can view the complete case study PDF here↗︎
Gracon Case Study Overview: 48 Milan Rescue Kits Serviced Swiftly
When Gracon contacted us, they needed help with a large-scale Level 3 servicing of Milan rescue devices. These kits, essential for ensuring the safety of their client’s workers at height, were due for servicing after reaching their 10-year mark.
Our team was ready to meet the challenge with a plan that not only addressed the servicing needs but also ensured minimal disruption to Gracon’s client. For the full details, including how we managed import/export logistics, parts ordering, and service scheduling, click the link below to read the complete case study.
View the Full Gracon Case Study PDF
The project presented multiple challenges, including:
- Educating Gracon, who were new to Milan servicing, on the entire process.
- Managing a large volume of units and dealing with import/export challenges between the UK and Ireland.
- Ensuring the availability of Level 3 qualified engineers to handle the servicing.
How REAX Provided a Tailored Servicing Plan
We worked closely with Gracon to develop a bespoke servicing plan, ensuring a swift turnaround for each batch of rescue devices. From coordinating the logistics to liaising with the parts manufacturer in Germany, we ensured every aspect of the process was tightly managed.
This project is a great example of why REAX is trusted as the UK’s only Milan Level 3 Servicing Centre.
The Results: Servicing Delivered On Time
In the end, all 48 Milan units were serviced and returned to Gracon on time, with minimal downtime for their client. Our strategic location in the UK, close to Ireland, allowed us to manage timelines and resolve any issues quickly.
Why Trust REAX for Your Milan Skylotec Servicing Needs?
REAX is the UK’s only Milan Level 3 Servicing Centre, and we take our responsibility seriously. Whether you’re dealing with one unit or a large batch, we offer tailored servicing plans that minimise downtime and ensure safety.
Interested in learning more? Click below to see how we handled this project for Gracon, and how we can help you too.
View Full Gracon Case Study PDF
Contact our equipment team for more information and advice:
Email: equipment@reaxltd.com
Phone: 01253767775 Opt 2
REAX principles
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We're not interested in a quick win or selling you something you don't need. Our commitment to customer service ensures you will get the best training, advice or equipment solution for working safely in your field.
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Our commitment to you does not end with your training course finishing. We send renewal reminders at expiry and you can keep up to date via our online blogs and social media platforms.
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Our instructors have over 350 years of industry experience between them, and with over 60 courses available, your training is in safe hands.
Safety equipment
Having confidence in your kit is as important as the training you receive. Reax can advise you on the best solution for your situation and guarantee a competitive price. We also can ensure your kit stays fit for purpose through our PPE inspection and Servicing team. We can even hire you replacement kit while your kit is being serviced.
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We are committed to finding the right solution for you. This means you can rest assured that your next major project is covered by a bespoke rescue plan that has been made in consultation, not a pre packed formula.
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FAQs
We have put some answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding our training below . If you have a question we have not answered, click on contact us
REAX stands for RESCUE & ACCESS. These have been the cornerstones of the training we provide and equipment we supply. Whether working at height, in a confined space, or you are faced with an injured colleague in the workplace our goal is to empower you to use your skills in the most difficult of environments, safely.
The minimum age for First Aid training is 16. For all other courses the minimum age is 18.
It depends on the piece of equipment and how often it is used. Most equipment will require a minimum of an annual inspection while some specialist lifting and working at height equipment will require 6-monthly checks. All equipment should be check prior to use by whoever is using it.
We are open 8:30am - 4:30pm Monday - Friday. Weekend Courses are available on request.
No, All Equipment will be provided when training in our centre. We can sometimes use the same equipment that you use in your workplace
We work across the length and breadth of Great Britain. We can deliver training on site or on our state-of-the-art mobile training rig. Alternatively, we would be delighted to train you at our bespoke training centre in Blackpool Lancashire in the North West of the United Kingdom
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that “Employers must protect workers from health and safety risks.” Personal Protective Equipment or PPE is any piece of equipment that will protect a person from injury or harm while performing a work-related task.
All Instructors at REAX have come through our onboarding programme. The programme takes you from skilled practitioner to someone able to breakdown the technical aspects of a task or activity and teach others to use them confidently and safely. We have developed a series of training pathways that will give you all the attributes to become an instructor. If you have passion to teach others, then we would love to hear from you.
All Reax Training courses certify you for three years. But don’t worry we will send you an automated reminder when your certificate is due for renewal
Through our network of suppliers we can access the best quality equipment. While we constantly hold a great deal of stock some items will be shipped on order direct from the manufacturer. In short, if it is a piece of specialist equipment for working at height, in a confined space, rescue or first aid, our Equipment Team can find the right piece of kit for you.
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