Link-up is the UK rail industry supplier registration and qualification scheme. Originally established over a decade ago, Link-up has made a significant impact to the rail industry by providing a single common qualification process for suppliers that is shared by Network Rail and over 80 rail organisations including Infrastructure Management Contractors, Underground Infrastructure companies, Construction companies and all major Train and Freight Operators.
The Link-up scheme has three clear objectives:
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Single shared qualification process amongst the rail community
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Reduced duplication - recognised as efficient and cost-effective
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Fair, open and transparent process.
In 2000, Achilles launched the Proof scheme, which took Link-up a stage further by providing a common auditing process for suppliers of safety-critical products and services. Link-up and Proof have allowed suppliers to go through a single qualification and audit process that has been designed and agreed by multiple rail organisations, whilst ensuring that suppliers are treated in a fair and consistent manner according to the products and services that they wish to supply.
To date more than 3500 suppliers and contractors are registered on the Link-up scheme, and over 1000 of these are also participating in the Proof scheme for products and services deemed critical to safety.
Overview of the UK rail industry
The UK rail industry has become increasingly complex post-privatisation, particularly on the national rail network:
National Rail Network
Network Rail is the owner and operator of the national rail network in the UK, and provides access to the rail network to train and freight operators. Network Rail's two main activities, infrastructure maintenance and track renewal, are provided in-house and by a supply-chain of contractors and sub-contractors.
Train Operating Companies (TOCs) lease passenger trains from Rolling Stock Companies (ROSCOs). Passenger trains are maintained by heavy maintenance suppliers, who also maintain the freight trains and wagons owned by Freight Operating Companies.
Local Rail Networks
The remainder of the rail industry falls into these key areas:
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Underground Rail (London Underground)
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Light Rail including tramways
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Other Rail including Channel Tunnel