first-hand

Alternative spelling of firsthand.

In order to gain first-hand experience of the operation of the new services I made a footplate journey on the only down two-hour train in the current timetable, the 8.30 a.m. Paddington [to Birmingham], a new express put on to offset the withdrawal of the 8.40 a.m. from Euston.

Directly or from personal experience.

Its primary role is to enable Network Rail's engineers, management and stakeholders to see the condition of the infrastructure and track first-hand - in the warm and dry, and in a position of safety.