Hinkley nuclear power station implements telematics for vehicles

Hinkley Point C nuclear power station (HPC) has implemented Webfleet telematics to improve the efficiency of both its on-site vehicles and construction equipment.

The power station is one of the largest and most complex construction projects in Europe - and is set to supply low carbon electricity to around 6 million homes on completion. It is the first nuclear power station to be built in the UK for a generation.

A fleet of 85 vans and 10 HGV tractors transport engineers and construction machinery across the 2.7km2 site in Somerset, creating the buildings that will house the two nuclear reactors.

Following successful pilot trials, civil engineering partnership Bylor (Laing O’Rourke and Bouygues TP) has invested in Webfleet’s automated Link 340 asset management solution to reduce workload, save energy costs and help maintain asset value.

“We operate more than 400 construction assets, from concrete mixers, excavators and generators to jet washers and JCBs,” explains Callum Waters, Plant Manager at BYLOR JV - Hinkley Point C, “so it’s vital we keep a laser sharp focus on maintenance needs.

“With the new Webfleet system, we can schedule and manage our equipment and machinery maintenance tasks much more easily.  Not only do we have at at-a-glance view of where every piece of kit is at any given time, we also have powerful data on how each is being used and for how long.

“This is critical because accurate working hours obviously impact maintenance planning and site safety and also tell us if they are being used at peak efficiency.  We can spot if equipment has been switched on but is idling, for example, and are anticipating lower energy costs as a result.”

Webfleet’s Pro M devices are also boosting productivity and improving operational safety for Bylor’s HGV tractor drivers.  

Callum continues: “We used to use radios to communicate with our drivers, but the hands-free in-cab system is a much more effective and safer way to dispatch job instructions. They can quickly and easily check on the Webfleet app to see their next job and be en route in seconds.”

Cam 50 front-facing dashcams have also been integrated with the Webfleet system to protect drivers and provide irrefutable evidence for any incidents or insurance claims outside of the main site.

Once the installation is complete, Bylor is hoping to leverage Webfleet’s CO2 Reporting module to measure and monitor the CO2 produced by its vehicles - and to zero in on any opportunities to cut emissions.