At ProGuard Consulting, we provide expert Principal Contractor License Consultancy designed to support rail sector projects and help clients achieve compliance with the Network Rail Principal Contractor License Service/Standard (NR/L2/INI/CP0070). Whether you're managing complex rail projects or working toward becoming a licensed Principal Contractor, we offer tailored solutions to meet your needs.
A principal contractor license (pcl) from Network Rail is a major milestone for any rail business — and a gateway to delivering works directly on live rail infrastructure. At ProGuard Rail, we provide expert consultancy to help contractors gain, retain, or reinstate their PCL, ensuring full compliance with Network Rail’s stringent assurance requirements.
Our team of rail safety and compliance specialists has in-depth experience working with Principal Contractors, Tier 1 suppliers, and Network Rail’s assurance teams. We understand the complexities of the PCL process and offer tailored, hands-on support every step of the way.
We’ll assess your current capabilities, systems, and documentation against Network Rail’s PCL criteria, identifying gaps and providing a practical action plan.
From completing application forms to compiling evidence portfolios, we’ll guide you through the entire PCL application or reinstatement process.
We help you implement or enhance your Health, Safety, Environmental, Quality (HSEQ) and Competence Management Systems to meet Network Rail expectations.
Ensure your systems are aligned with Sentinel Scheme Rules, CDM 2015, and NR/L2/OHS/020 — all essential components of holding a PCL.
We support you through mock audits, site visits, and panel interviews, ensuring you’re confident, compliant, and ready for scrutiny.
Ongoing support with audits, performance reporting, and compliance improvement to help you retain your PCL and meet Network Rail’s continuous assurance expectations.
A Principal Contractor Licence allows a supplier to act as the Primary Duty Holder under CDM regulations on Network Rail’s infrastructure, taking full responsibility for health, safety, and construction management on rail projects.
Without a PCL, your business may be limited to subcontractor roles — even if you have the skills and resources to deliver directly.
Take a scenic excursion through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. See mountains, rivers, and forests up close.
Please reach us at info@proguardconsulting.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.
A Principal Contractor Licence (PCL) is required by organisations that wish to take full responsibility for managing and delivering works on Network Rail infrastructure. Holding a PCL demonstrates your company’s competence in safety, quality, project management, and compliance with Network Rail’s assurance frameworks and CDM 2015 regulations.
Yes. ProGuard Rail provides expert consultancy support to guide you through the entire PCL application process—from initial readiness assessments and documentation development to mock audits and support during the Network Rail assessment process.
To gain a PCL, you must demonstrate capability across several areas including HSQE systems, project delivery, risk management, competency management, and CDM compliance. You’ll also need to show you have competent personnel, robust procedures, and the ability to act as the Principal Contractor on rail sites.
The process can take between 3 to 6 months, depending on your company’s existing systems and readiness. ProGuard Rail accelerates this process by helping you close any gaps, ensuring your organisation is fully prepared for Network Rail’s PCL audit.
If your organisation does not meet the criteria, Network Rail may issue actions or refuse the licence. With ProGuard Rail’s support, we help you identify and resolve non-conformances early, reducing the risk of failure and supporting you through re-submission if needed.
Absolutely. ProGuard Rail provides ongoing compliance and assurance support to help you retain your PCL status. We offer internal audits, document updates, and continued advisory services to ensure your systems and teams remain aligned with Network Rail’s evolving standards.
Address: Springhill House, Ffordd Brynffynnon, Holywell, CH8 7EH
email: info@proguardrail.co.uk
Tel: 07595893659
Copyright © 2025 ProGuard Rail - All Rights Reserved.