Lifelines for the Rail and Road Industries
In critical transport environments — whether railways, motorways, or tunnels — communication can be the difference between safety and disaster. That’s why fixed emergency telephones remain essential, even in today’s mobile-first world.
While smartphones are widespread, they’re not always reliable in remote or high-speed transport settings. Coverage gaps, battery failure, and poor reception can leave users stranded. That’s where roadside and trackside telephones provide an irreplaceable safety net — with direct, fail-safe links to control centres and emergency services.
At Best4Safety, we supply specialist equipment that’s designed to deliver dependable communication in the harshest environments. Two outstanding examples from DAC Limited — a leading manufacturer of emergency telephony — are the RA-708 Network Rail Telephone and the RA-708 Commodore.
Why Roadside and Trackside Telephones Still Matter
Despite technological advances, fixed-line emergency phones are purpose-built for situations where reliability is non-negotiable. They’re engineered to:
- Work independently of mobile networks.
- Operate in extreme weather and noisy environments.
- Offer clear, immediate communication with operators.
- Stay functional over decades with minimal maintenance.
- Provide a consistent interface for users — no training or signal-checking required.
From railway tunnels to rural motorways, these telephones are often the first and only point of contact for people in distress. They’re also vital for maintenance teams, train drivers, signal staff, and emergency responders who require direct access to operations control.
DAC RA-708 Network Rail Telephone
Built to meet Network Rail specifications, the RA-708 Network Rail Telephone is a trusted solution across the UK rail network. It’s designed for long-term outdoor deployment, ensuring voice clarity and connection reliability in trackside locations.
Key Features :- Fully compliant with NR/L2/SIG/30057 standards.
- Rugged, weather-resistant construction for UK climate conditions.
- High-clarity audio, even in high-noise environments.
- Compatible with magneto and PSTN telephone systems.
- Ideal for platforms, tunnels, level crossings, and junctions.
Whether installed at a signal point or alongside the main line, this model ensures that rail staff and engineers always have a direct line to safety.
DAC RA-708 Commodore
The RA-708 Commodore offers the same robust design as the Network Rail version but with a full keypad and expanded configurability, making it ideal for roadside use and broader infrastructure applications.
Key Features :- IP65/IP66-rated for dust and water resistance
- Optional full keypad for flexible communication setups.
- Supports PSTN, PABX, and VoIP/IP telephony systems.
- Armoured handset cord or curly cable options.
- Customisable with auto-dial, call status indicators, and hearing aid compatibility.
The RA-708 Commodore is a popular choice for motorways, bridges, service roads, depots, and even secure industrial sites. It's a versatile solution when fast, reliable communication is mission-critical.
The Bottom Line: Communication Saves Lives
In moments of crisis, uncertainty, or technical failure, having a reliable line of communication is everything. Trackside and roadside emergency telephones offer permanent, always-available contact with the people who can help — no app, battery, or mobile signal required.
At Best4Safety, we’re proud to supply products like the DAC RA-708 Network Rail Telephone and RA-708 Commodore — devices that meet the highest standards for safety, performance, and longevity.
Looking for expert advice on the best emergency phone for your site?
Our team is ready to help you find the right solution for your transport infrastructure. At Best4Safety, we have been providing specialist safety equipment to the rail and road industry for over 20 years. If you have a requirement to keep you team safe, call the experts now.
