ETF carried out work ‘outside the industrialised suite’ at Biarritz
Between September and December 2024, ETF carried out a worksite in Biarritz on behalf of its client SNCF Réseau. The project was notable for the introduction, for the first time, of an ‘industrialised out-of-suite’ working method, and for the use of the Portable Radio Announcement Device (PRAD), a solution that enhances the safety of teams in the field.
Synergy between local teams in Bordeaux and the Dense Zone Rapid Suite
Traditionally, rail works follow a well-defined sequence: preparations are carried out before the intervention of the Suite Rapide. In Biarritz, this approach has been rethought. The local teams from the Atlantique agency worked closely with those from the Zone Dense Rapid Suite, setting up a new simultaneous organisation. This synergy made it possible to renew 5 kilometres of track and ballast, including 3 kilometres using the TEVO factory train.
Flawless coordination between the 150 professionals involved
Meticulous coordination was crucial, between our track experts, catenaries (drilling) and safety services (ETF Services), as well as SNCF Réseau staff, in particular because of the time constraints: the work took place at night, over a four-hour period, in order to clear the tracks each morning.
This project also marked a first: the use of the Portable Radio Annunciation Device (DAPR), a solution guaranteeing the safety of teams in the face of rail traffic on adjacent tracks.
‘The success of this project is essentially due to the excellent cooperation between the ETF and SNCF Réseau teams during the preparation and implementation phases.
Many thanks to Vincent Loubet, Bryan Boccard, Benoit Bastide and their teams for this excellent synergy.’Christophe BURLE – Bordeaux Area Manager – ETF
The project was completed successfully, with no accidents, testifying to the expertise and commitment of ETF’s teams to efficient, sustainable mobility.
