Kate Parsons

Network Rail: Planning & Deleivering Safe Work programme

Example showing how the work area was clearly shown and the hazards within it on a map designed by modern cartographer, Kate Parsons

Extent of work area, signals, hazards and access shown

The document above shows the first four iteration in the project's development including mapping safety zones, hazard symbols, permit information flow, project process development and physical permit iterations.

For more than two years I worked as the Visual Communications Lead on Network Rail's multi-million-pound project to improve staff safety protocols. Simplifying reams of paperwork into at-a-glance safety briefings (accessible for lower levels of English comprehension) to change the UK rail industry's safety system for on-track workers. 

“Kate proved very able to work with frontline staff, management and risk management consultants to translate findings into a logical flow of clearly presented, pertinent information. She championed the principles of clarity throughout the many stages of the programme's development. Kate's business contacts, ability to sub-contract, manage time and budget enabled trials of the new materials to move easily through iterations.” Stuart Browning, Network Rail Control of Work Manager
visual risk management and safety procedures for rail workers shown in this map

I drew miles of maps and consulted with track workers at Barking, Worcester Shrub Hill and other Network Rail depots to get feedback on the visually-led safety system

Work safety symbols for the safte sytem of work map key. Lots of interations of colour, symbols' form and risk categories. they

Cannon Street Station track hazards.


This was much more than the maps and visual language system shown here. Countless iterations of paper permitting into which countless certifications and procedures fed to create prototypes of paper and digital permit.

Handover report detailing design principles, project scope, issues and challenges and next steps.