Challenge

Following migration to the Aurora platform for Street Works management, Gigaclear’s HSEQ Director Todd Hallam was keen to harness the system’s potential and develop a unique all-encompassing platform that is effective not just for Gigaclear, but the entire UK fibre industry.

Todd states;

“Gigaclear faced operational challenges in managing multiple systems for its HSEQ audits across its multiple work streams including Street Works, Wayleave, PIA, DNO, MDU, Installations, Break Fix and Maintenance. With over 80 users spread across different teams and contractors, data was dispersed across multiple platforms leading to inefficiencies and difficulties in reporting. These issues made it harder to make informed decisions, track performance and ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.

Gigaclear needed a solution that would streamline their HSEQ audits, integrate them with existing street works management processes and ultimately increase productivity, improve effectiveness and help reduce costs and the environmental impact of their operations.

We are not alone in these challenges and I saw the opportunity Aurora could give us to create a unique and fit-for-purpose platform that would revolutionise the way our company, and others, operate.”

“The customisation of the HSEQ solution makes Aurora the perfect auditing platform for anyone monitoring Environmental, Health and Safety, Quality assurance, and compliance of works that are being carried out with or without the need for a street works permit.

Ben went on to say “Gigaclear firmly believes in the Aurora product and the benefits it brings to the Telecoms industry.”

Ben George, Associate Head of Street Works, Gigaclear

Implementation

The implementation of the HSEQ solution was a highly collaborative process, with regular meetings between Gigaclear’s HSEQ team and Symology’s product management group. Both parties were committed to a smooth transition with clearly defined targets and milestones set at the start of the project.

Gigaclear’s team worked directly with Symology’s developers to ensure the solution met their exact needs, ensuring both the functionality and the user experience were aligned with operational requirements. Regular testing and feedback loops were built into the process, enabling the team to refine the solution continuously. This agile development process allowed the software to be updated and improved rapidly, ensuring it was fit for purpose from day one.

The system went live in June 2024, with the first audits conducted in the same week. The speed of adoption was impressive, with just under 500 audits completed in the first week alone, and approximately 8,500 audits completed within the first three months of operation by 80 inspectors. This high rate of adoption demonstrated the platform’s ease of use and the effectiveness of the integration.

This trend has continued with an average of 550 audits per week being completed by Gigaclear personnel to date.

Results

The successful implementation of the HSEQ solution delivered immediate and tangible benefits to Gigaclear:

  • Unified System for Permitting and HSEQ Audits
    Gigaclear now manages both street works permits and HSEQ audits in a single platform. This has eliminated the need for inspectors to use multiple devices and systems, streamlining operations and reducing errors. The system’s offline capabilities, critical for rural areas, ensure that inspections can be completed even without network connectivity.
  • Improved Data Accuracy and Reporting
    With all data in one system, Gigaclear can generate accurate, real-time reports on street works and HSEQ performance. This has led to better decision-making, more effective resource and contractor management, and an enhanced ability to track and reduce defects in real time.
  • Better Safety and Quality Management
    The customised checklists and scoring system allow Gigaclear to focus on the most critical issues, such as high-risk activities like working at height. This targeted approach ensures that safety concerns are addressed promptly, and quality issues are resolved quickly.
  • Cost Savings, Efficiency, and Reduced Disruption
    The adoption of the Aurora platform has created an annual cost saving of approximately £20,000 and the streamlined system also facilitates faster issue resolution, reducing the need for return site visits. Moreover, the ability to reduce disruption to the travelling public has led to fewer traffic management interventions improving the overall experience for residents and commuters.
  • Reduced Carbon Emissions
    The improvements in operational efficiency and reduced need for multiple site visits have contributed to lower carbon emissions. By minimising the amount of unnecessary travel and rework, Gigaclear is making strides toward a more sustainable operation aligning with their environmental goals.
  • Automated Email Notifications
    For field-based users and those not logged into the system at all times, automated email notifications ensure they remain up to date. These notifications include reports for completed audits, details of new defects and alerts when defects are resolved. Additionally, the reports contain all audit results, including photographs and calculated audit scores providing an easy way for users to track progress without needing to log into the system constantly.
  • Increased Transparency and Collaboration
    Contractors and Gigaclear’s internal teams now have shared access to audit data which fosters collaboration and accountability. Permission restrictions ensure that contractors only see their own data but the system encourages greater engagement and visibility across the workforce.
  • Scalability for Growth
    Aurora’s ability to integrate with third-party systems and its flexibility in customisation means that Gigaclear’s HSEQ solution is not just fit for today’s needs, but is also future-proof. This scalability is a key consideration for new customers looking for a solution that will grow alongside their business.

Conclusion

Gigaclear’s adoption of Aurora’s HSEQ functionality has not only transformed the way they manage safety, quality, and compliance, but also provides a compelling example for other organisations looking to optimise their operations. Whether you are an existing customer looking to enhance your HSEQ processes, or a new customer considering a more integrated solution, Aurora offers a powerful, flexible platform that can streamline your operations, reduce costs, and improve safety and quality.

Related News:
Share this page:
Subscribe to our mailing list