Published Fri 11th Oct 2024
In early 2024, a significant landslide occurred on the cliffs overlooking the Exeter to Plymouth Line and the South West Coastal Path, just northeast of Teignmouth. The landslide posed an immediate threat to both rail operations and public safety. In response, Sight Automation in collaboration with Central Alliance, a key Network Rail Monitoring Framework partner for the Wales and Western Region, was on-site within two days to install an emergency monitoring system utilising Senceive's remote wireless monitoring technology.
Rapid Deployment to Mitigate Risk
Sight Automation and Central Alliance’s quick response saw the installation of Senceive’s FlatMesh Nano Triaxial Tilt Sensor nodes on both the catch fence and the area above the landslip. These sensors, known for their precision and accuracy (detecting ground movements as small as 0.0018 mm/m) and very long battery life (up to 15 years), provided round-the-clock, reliable monitoring of the cliffside. This level of precision is vital in early detection of any shifts in the terrain that could lead to further landslides.
Solar-powered FlatMesh 4G Gateways and cameras were installed to transmit data in near real-time, allowing for visual confirmation of any detected movements. These systems significantly reduce the need for frequent site visits, helping to minimise environmental impact and keep monitoring staff safe.
Advanced Safety and Compliance for Network Rail
Given the proximity of the landslide to active rail lines, the highest safety standards were required for the project. A thorough risk assessment was conducted, and specially qualified personnel installed the system to ensure compliance with Network Rail’s stringent trackside safety requirements.
The system's placement on restricted cliff areas also meant minimal risk of tampering, ensuring uninterrupted data flow and reliable monitoring of any potential hazards to the rail network.
Responding to the Evesham Landslip
This isn’t the first time that Sight Automation, in collaboration with Central Alliance, have used Senceive’s technology in an emergency. In May 2023, a 10 metre landslip adjacent to the rail network near Evesham resulted in temporary speed restrictions (TSR) on the line. Within just 24 hours, the team had installed a remote monitoring system to assess the stability of the track.
The deployment included FlatMesh NanoMacro Tilt Sensor nodes installed on sleepers to measure twist and cant movement, enabling Network Rail asset engineers to determine whether the emergency TSR could be lifted. This wireless monitoring system, powered by small solar panels, ensured uninterrupted data transmission even in this remote location with limited power connectivity.
Conclusion
With rapid deployment, precise monitoring, and advanced data transmission capabilities, Senceive wireless monitoring solutions empower engineers and asset managers to make informed decisions, keeping rail networks safe and operational.
As seen in both the Teignmouth and Evesham landslips, Senceive’s monitoring systems provided an invaluable layer of protection.
Senceive remote monitoring technology provides fast, reliable asset data before, during and after emergency events:
- Safety: Reduce boots on ground post-emergency
- Near Real-Time Data: Enabling rapid response
- Eyes on the Site: Detect post-emergency secondary movement
- Ease of Installation: Cable free sensors, solar powered gateway, quick installation with no need for calibration
Find out more about Senceive's emergency response monitoring solutions
