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.
During the safety assessment for the work and as protection needs change, the Possession Protection Officer or the Protection Officer decides on the best means to reduce the risk from rail traffic on adjacent lines.
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
As a result of the safety assessment, the Possession Protection Officer or Protection Officer chooses one or more of the following means to reduce risk:
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.
Approved demarcation fencing is described in the Asset Standards Authority Demarcation Fences Engineering Specification.
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.