Network Rail approves Fault Navigator as the leading method for track workers to locate UTU Suspects
We’re pleased to share that Network Rail has approved a variation to standard NR/L3/TRK/3416, enabling inspection teams to be guided directly by Machines With Vision’s Fault Navigator to suspects captured by the UTU fleet (Ultrasonic Test Units).
Why this matters
Until now, rail testers (URFDOs) could need to walk approximately +/-22 yards — and in some cases up to +/-110 yards — to locate safety-critical defects identified by the UTU.
With Fault Navigator guiding testers straight to the precise location, that unnecessary searching is significantly reduced.
What this variation enables
This update will:
Increase confidence in suspect location, helping to reduce repeat visits
Reduce time spent searching, allowing more time to thoroughly examine each suspect
Further improve safety for passengers, track workers and all railway users
By taking testers directly to the right spot first time, Fault Navigator supports faster, more accurate verification of potential defects.
Effective immediately
This ‘Temporary Variation’ (TV) to the standard - NR/L3/TRK/3416: Management of Rails Ultrasonically Tested by the Ultrasonic Test Unit (UTU) [Issue 1] - takes effect immediately.
We’re excited to see Fault Navigator continuing to roll out across the UK railway network and look forward to working even more closely with routes nationwide.
As Network Rail representatives Brian Whitney (Engineering Expert Track and S&C) and Mark Chestney (Programme Manager) shared:
“Network Rail are always looking for ways to improve the safety and efficiency of our operations with our supply chain. Machines With Vision’s Fault Navigator provides a step change in our ultrasonic testing regime, getting testers to suspects far quicker and to the exact location so that they can be verified. We welcome this as a new chapter in ultrasonic testing and track worker safety.”
If you’d like to see Fault Navigator in action trackside, contact Jon Owen or Russell Licence at info@machineswithvision.com to arrange a demo at your DU.
Jon Owen on track with Network Rail Ultrasonic testers near Luton, locating suspects identified by UTU1
Network Rail’s Richard Bowen, Ultrasonic & Rail Friction Section Supervisor, using Fault Navigator to navigate to suspects identified by UTU1, near Shrewsbury
Read the original Linked In article here
