WSP has appointed a human factors specialist to support on the design development of HS2’s Old Oak Common station.
Neil Winchester will work with the rail planning and operations team to apply human factors thinking at the early design stage to ensure the operation and maintenance of rail systems and facilities best meet the needs of the user.
Human factors, also known as ergonomics, refers to environmental, organisational and job factors, and human and individual characteristics, which influence behaviour at work in a way which can affect health and safety.
Neil, who counts such organisations as Network Rail, London Underground and BP as past employers, has been a human factors lead for more than 20 years.
Most recently, as the project integration manager for the MTR Crossrail programme team, Neil ensured the new Elizabeth line stations and systems would support MTR Crossrail’s concession requirements.
For London Underground, Neil developed guidance for rolling stock cab designers and he was also the human factors delivery manager on projects including the Stratford station enhancement programme.
Darren Reed, managing director of WSP’s rail business, said: “Learning from Neil’s extensive industry experience will help us embed human factors deeper into everything we design.”
Neil added: “Human factors is all about designing systems to meet the users’ needs, and in my new role I look forward to contributing to some of the most exciting and transformational projects in the UK and ensuring our right-first-time designs match our clients’ aims in terms of operational performance, safety and user experience.”
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