Mandate guidance, operational milestones, and community highlights as we round off 2025.
We also returned from GHI Amsterdam with fresh engagement across the sector, celebrated the close of our #dBDCalendar2026 Competition, and share important winter service and warranty information to support teams through the busiest season.
Understanding NR/L2/OPS/301 — What the Standard Actually Requires
There has been a lot of discussion recently around NR/L2/OPS/301, particularly regarding whether the new requirement for recorded safety-critical communication includes duplex systems. To give the rail industry complete clarity, dBD Communications contacted Network Rail’s Change Lead directly for guidance and their position is clear…
Duplex communication systems are not included within the scope of NR/L2/OPS/301.
The standard — along with the related RAIB recommendation — applies specifically to mobile phone calls between the Controller of Site Safety (COSS) and the Person in Charge (PC). It does not introduce recording requirements for plant-based duplex communication or machine-to-controller workflows.
Where dBD Communications Stand
As the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of Network Rail Approved duplex systems, our role remains focused on delivering clear, reliable safety-critical communication for the teams who rely on it every day. Our solutions align fully with current standards, and where recording becomes a requirement for additional roles in the future, our technology is already proven and capable.
dBD Communications has supported recording-ready duplex communication since 2020, but we only activate recording functionality where standards require it. Safety works best when it follows clear, accurate guidance — not assumptions.
If you need help interpreting NR/L2/OPS/301 or understanding how duplex communication fits into compliance, we’re always here to support you. Contact our team for more information:
📞 +44 (0)1268 724 617 | ✉️ sales@dbdcommunications.co.uk
Strengthening U.S. Ground Operations with PrimeFlight
Our partnership with PrimeFlight Aviation Services continues to build momentum across North America, with teams reporting clear improvements in coordination, situational awareness, and overall ramp efficiency. Following the initial rollout into de-icing, pushback, towing, and cargo operations, the operational impact of our wireless duplex systems is now being felt day-to-day across multiple stations. PrimeFlight’s marketing team shared the following update on the integration:
“At PrimeFlight, safety, communication, and efficiency are at the heart of our ramp operations. The introduction of dBD’s wireless headset technology has significantly improved our team coordination and situational awareness on the ground.
The noise-cancelling clarity and hands-free capability have not only enhanced pushback and arrival procedures but have also reduced the potential for miscommunication during high-tempo operations. The transition to this wireless technology has simplified training, improved mobility, and eliminated cable-related equipment issues that previously disrupted workflow.
Partnering with dBD Communications supports our broader operational excellence strategy—bringing innovative, reliable technology to our employees that ultimately benefits our customers.”
This feedback reinforces the foundations of the wider partnership announced earlier this year, where PrimeFlight selected dBD Communications to supply duplex systems across all U.S. ground and cargo handling operations. By standardising equipment across their network, PrimeFlight is supporting safer, more consistent ramp operations and streamlining communication workflows for teams across multiple airports.
GHI Amsterdam: Industry Dialogue and Forward Momentum
The Ground Handling International Annual Conference once again proved to be a valuable meeting point for collaboration, insight, and forward thinking. Bringing together operators, handlers, and technology providers from across the sector, this year’s event in Amsterdam offered a clear view of the trends shaping ground operations as we move into 2026.
dBD Communications was represented by CEO David O’Connell, who held constructive discussions with organisations across Europe and beyond — including South Europe Ground Services in Madrid — as part of ongoing conversations around safety, communication, and operational efficiency. These early engagements are already helping to shape opportunities for the year ahead. Reflecting on the event, David commented:
“GHI continues to be an important space for honest discussion and meaningful progress. It’s always encouraging to see how the industry rallies together to improve safety, communication, and operational efficiency.”
Our thanks go to the Ground Handling International team and everyone who took the time to meet with us. We look forward to continuing the conversations started in Amsterdam as we build momentum for 2026.
Your Moment: #dBDCalendar2026 Showcase
Our #dBDCalendar2026 Competition is now drawing to a close, and the team has already begun reviewing the mix of creative and personal entries received over the past few months. It’s been a great reminder of the people behind the operations we support every day.
Final selections will be confirmed shortly, ready to be brought together into the 2026 calendar. We’ll be announcing the chosen entries soon and look forward to sharing the finished calendar once production is complete.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to enter — it’s become a highlight of the year, and one we’re pleased to keep building on!
Warranty & Support:
Keeping Your Systems Working at Their Best
As we approach the end of the year, it’s a good time to highlight the warranty options available across our full range of communication systems. Every dBD Communications’ solution comes with a standard 12-month warranty as part of your purchase.
For teams looking for longer-term protection, extended warranty packages can be added at the point of sale. These include an automatic recall at the 11-month mark, where systems are inspected, serviced, and re-warranted to ensure continued reliability. Any repair work required outside of normal wear and tear is chargeable and will be discussed before an extended warranty is applied.
Extended warranty can also be arranged after the initial warranty period has passed. In these cases, suitability is assessed during the inspection process to ensure the equipment meets the required condition for re-warranty.
If you’d like guidance on warranty options or wish to schedule an inspection, our team is here to help keep your systems operating safely and reliably throughout the year: 📞 +44 (0)1268 724 617 | ✉️ sales@dbdcommunications.co.uk
A Thank You From All of Us at dBD Communications
As we close out the year, we’d like to extend our thanks to everyone who has supported dBD Communications throughout 2025 — from customers and partners to suppliers and the teams working behind the scenes every day.
This year has reminded us that progress takes many forms. It isn’t only measured in major deployments or headline projects, but in the steady improvements, shared teamwork, and day-to-day resilience that keep operations moving forward. Those quieter gains have been just as important to the momentum we take into 2026.
Thank you for your continued trust and collaboration. We wish you a safe, restful, and enjoyable festive season, and we look forward to building on this year’s progress together in the new year.
Key dates for the Festive Period
Last guaranteed shipment date: 19 December 2025
Final collection date: Until 14:30, 24 December 2025
Holiday closure: From 24 December 2025 – 05 January 2026
For emergency support during our closure period, please contact the team on +44 (0)1268 724 617
Thank you for your continued support and trust, here’s to a successful 2026!