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Xwatch launches XW5-R

Xwatch Safety Solutions  will officially launch the XW5-R at Rail Live 2025 – a new rail-specific version of its proven XW5 system – delivering a fully compliant, quick-to-install safety solution designed specifically for road-rail vehicles (RRVs) and rail-based operations. Set to be showcased on stand G8 at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre this June, the XW5-R is a direct response to industry demand for a practical, robust safety system that meets the unique challenges of working on or alongside the railway.

Built on the trusted XW5 platform, the XW5-R integrates height, slew, and Rated Capacity Indicator (RCI) functionality into a compact, robust unit. It delivers clear operator guidance and active monitoring during lifting operations, and will be fully compliant with RIS-1530-PLT Issue 7 and EN15746, the key industry standards for plant working on or near rail infrastructure. The system meets UK Performance Level D safety requirements as standard.

The XW5-R supports Any Line Open (ALO) working and is designed for safe use under Overhead Line Equipment (OLE), helping operators maintain compliance and control in even the most complex or constrained environments.

Trackside work brings its own risks – from passing trains and overhead lines to limited clearance and the need for specialist rail gear. The XW5-R is engineered to help operators manage those risks effectively, while remaining simple to operate.

Designed for flexibility, the XW5-R can be installed on high- or low-rail systems, variable gauge rail gear, wheeled or tracked machines, and a wide range of boom configurations. It’s suitable for working directly on-track or alongside the railway – offering true versatility for both contractors and plant hire companies.

The system includes multiple pre-configured lifting duties – including tandem lifting duties – with selectable modes for different operational needs, such as greater lifting over the front of the machine. It monitors rail gear and oscillating axles without controlling them, giving the operator a clear view of safe working limits without overcomplication.

XW-Insite is included as standard with every XW5-R system, bringing powerful telematics and safety monitoring into the rail environment. Developed in partnership with technology specialist PVS, the cloud-based platform gives contractors and fleet managers real-time visibility of machine status, operator behaviour and key safety parameters — including height, slew and RCI limits. It also provides live diagnostics, fuel usage, location tracking and environmental data, all accessible remotely or on-site. This level of insight supports compliance, reduces downtime and enables smarter, safer decisions when working in high-risk rail settings.

"The XW5-R is a direct response to growing demand for a reliable, cost-effective rail safety system that doesn’t cut corners. It’s quick to install, straightforward to use, and backed by Xwatch’s reputation for trusted engineering, ongoing support, and a UK-wide service network.” said Dan Leaney, Xwatch Sales Director

According to the Xwatch team, the XW5-R fills a long-standing gap in the market – delivering all the essential safety features needed to meet RIS-1530 and EN15746 guidance (pending), without the complexity or added cost of functions many users don’t need.

Developed and supported in the UK, the XW5-R brings clarity, compliance, and confidence to on-track operations – offering rail contractors a smarter, more practical safety choice.

The XW5-R will be officially launched and on demo at Rail Live 2025, taking place on 18–19 June 2025 at Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre, Warwickshire. Visit the Xwatch team on the Hexagon stand G8 to see the system in action and find out how it can support safer, more compliant rail operations.

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