Calibration Services

1. Introduction
Northern Trains Limited ("Northern") is undertaking Preliminary Market Engagement ("PME") in advance of a proposed procurement for the provision of calibration services across its Train Care Centre ("TCC") network.
The purpose of this engagement is to better understand market capability, capacity, innovation and potential delivery models that could support Northern's operational and compliance requirements.
This notice is being published to inform suppliers of the opportunity to participate in market engagement activities and to support the development of Northern's future procurement strategy.
2. Background
Northern operates a network of Train Care Centres and maintenance facilities across the North of England. These facilities utilise a range of calibrated tools, instruments and equipment that support the safe inspection, maintenance and repair of rolling stock assets.
Northern is seeking to understand the current calibration services market, available technologies, service delivery models and supplier capabilities in advance of commencing a formal procurement process.
3. Objectives of the Market Engagement
The objectives of this engagement are to:
• Understand the current calibration services marketplace.
• Assess supplier capability and capacity to support a geographically dispersed railway maintenance operation.
• Explore innovative approaches to calibration management and asset control.
• Understand available digital asset management and certification solutions.
• Inform the future scope, specification and contract structure.
• Test potential commercial and pricing models.
• Support the development of a procurement strategy that delivers value for money and operational resilience.
4. Scope Overview
The anticipated requirement may include, but is not limited to:
• Calibration of mechanical, electrical and electronic measuring equipment.
• Calibration of torque tools and associated equipment.
• Provision of UKAS-accredited calibration services...