Description
This document describes the procedure for protecting work from rail traffic on adjacent lines.
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Introduction
Rail traffic on lines adjacent to work on track is a danger to workers. Workers must be protected from rail traffic. Excluding rail traffic from adjacent lines gives the highest level of protection.
Adjacent lines are identified as lines that are next to, near to or close to the work performed in the Rail Corridor.
Means of risk reduction
Track Occupancy Authority (TOA)
A TOA may be taken out over adjacent lines to exclude rail traffic.
Track Work Authority (TWA)
A TWA may be used on adjacent lines to manage rail traffic.
Absolute Signal Blocking (ASB)
Absolute Signal Blocking may be used to exclude rail traffic on adjacent lines.
Signal Key Switch (SKS) Blocking
SKS Blocking may be used on adjacent lines to manage rail traffic.
Lookout Working
Lookout Working may be used on adjacent lines.
Demarcation fencing
Demarcation fencing may be used. Demarcation fencing is an easily-seen, continuous boundary marker. It cannot stop workers leaving worksites. It is only a warning that a boundary exists.
Dedicated worker
A dedicated worker may be placed to make sure other workers stay within the nominated worksite or within the demarcation fencing.
Demarcation fencing is a warning only. It does not stop workers from going onto live lines.
Using demarcation fencing
Protection Officer
- Put appropriate protection and safety measures in place to protect workers before installing demarcation fencing.
- Make sure that the demarcation fencing is installed before starting other work.
- Make sure that demarcation fencing is able to withstand disturbances caused by passing rail traffic.
- Keep workers and equipment on the safe side of the demarcation fencing.
- If necessary, place a dedicated worker to make sure that other workers stay within the demarcation fencing.
- Make sure that the demarcation fencing is kept in good condition throughout the work.
Reducing the speed of rail traffic
Speed reductions, to a maximum of 40km/h, may be used on adjacent lines.
Possession Protection Officer or Protection Officer
If speeds on adjacent lines are to be reduced, arrange for:
- the Signaller to:
- issue Condition Affecting the Network warnings to rail traffic, or
- record the details about worksites in accordance with NPR 008 Using a Pilot Staff Notice (PSN)
- temporary speed signs to be placed, or
- a Track Work Authority for the adjacent line.