Supporting Rail, Construction and Air Through Winter Works & Global Collaboration

Seasonal strength across three sectors with clear, safe, and reliable communication from dBD Communications

As we enter the final stretch of 2025, the pace of work across the rail, construction, and aviation industries shows no signs of slowing. Seasonal works and infrastructure programmes are well underway across the UK, while on the international stage, the aviation calendar remains full with major industry events and training developments.

For dBD Communications, this balance between domestic rail and construction support and global aviation engagement underscores our core mission — keeping people connected through clear, safe, and reliable communication. Whether maintaining essential systems through winter works or presenting next-generation solutions at leading conferences, our focus remains on helping teams perform at their best, whatever the conditions.

Case Study: HS2 Lifting Operations Go Hands-Free

A pioneering collaboration between Mace Dragados JV (a joint venture between Dragados and Mace), and dBD Communications on the HS2 project is redefining how construction teams communicate during high-risk lifting operations. The live operational trial replaced traditional handheld radios with purpose-built, hands-free duplex headset systems, marking a significant step forward in both safety and efficiency.

The hands-free solution enables operatives to maintain full control of loads while communicating seamlessly, aligning with HS2’s Hands Off, Step Away, Safe Space (HOSASS) protocol. This approach eliminates the need to remove hands from critical tasks, reduces the chance of distraction, and supports a safer, more controlled working environment. Crews maintained continuous, real-time communication — reducing miscommunication, improving coordination, and enabling more fluid load handling.

Feedback from the trial showed clear safety and comfort benefits, with participants noting improved clarity in high-noise conditions and smoother coordination between slingers, lifting supervisors, and plant operators.

Building on the success of the trial, dBD Communications is now working closely with Dragados and MDJV to co-develop a next-generation hybrid communication solution, combining the strongest elements of multiple headset types tested during the project. The outcome will support full compliance with HOSASS while enhancing operational performance for future HS2 works and beyond.

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RIN Harrogate – Connecting with the Rail Community

On 13 November 2025, dBD Communications will attend RIN Harrogate, held at the Great Yorkshire Events Centre. As one of the UK’s key rail networking events, RIN brings together contractors, suppliers and infrastructure specialists to exchange ideas, explore innovation, and strengthen collaboration across the network.

Ahead of the event, our Rail and Construction Specialist, Andrew O’Connell, is reaching out to partners and operators to schedule meetings and site discussions. His focus is on helping teams prepare for the peak winter season — reviewing current systems, identifying upgrade opportunities, and sharing insight from active projects nationwide. Our partnerships with organisations such as Network Rail, Balfour Beatty, SPL Powerlines and HS1 Ltd demonstrate how robust duplex communication improves both safety and performance on site. As one Balfour Beatty representative recently said:

“The Apollo duplex communications system has been a game-changer for our team working around the High Speed 1 MPV vehicles. The hands-free, full-duplex setup has significantly improved safety by allowing seamless, uninterrupted communication between team members, even in noisy environments. It has also enhanced efficiency, as critical instructions can be relayed instantly without delays or miscommunication. Apollo has truly streamlined our operations and given us the confidence to work more effectively in safety-critical scenarios.”

Events like RIN are the perfect opportunity to continue these conversations — staying close to the challenges faced on the ground and ensuring our solutions evolve alongside real-world operational needs. Reach out today to our team today: 📞 +44 (0)1268 724 617 | ✉️ sales@dbdcommunications.co.uk

Training Videos – Building Knowledge, Strengthening Safety

Following the successful launch of our aviation training series on YouTube, the library continues to grow — with the latest system configuration videos now joining our existing headset operation guides. Each video offers clear, step-by-step support for ground teams, helping users understand and apply key functions across dBD’s duplex communication systems.

With more videos joining the fleet, the rollout is well underway, giving aviation teams early access to essential training materials as they’re released. From understanding headset functionality to configuring complete systems, the series provides practical, visual instruction designed to make day-to-day operations safer, smoother, and more consistent.

This initiative reinforces our ongoing commitment to supporting global aviation teams with accessible training resources that improve communication confidence and operational safety. ▶️ Explore the training playlist here: Aviation Training Videos

Keeping the Connection Going

As we move through the final months of 2025, our focus remains firmly on supporting teams across both rail, construction and aviation — from seasonal works here in the UK to international collaboration.

Whether you’re preparing for winter projects, planning ahead for 2026, or exploring how duplex communication can strengthen safety and efficiency across your operations, our team is here to help. Book a consultation, share your feedback, or get involved in Your Moment — and let’s keep communication clear, connected, and ready for what’s next.

📞 +44 (0)1268 724 617 | ✉️ sales@dbdcommunications.co.uk

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