National operations publications, which include the Rule Book, are standards which set out mandatory requirements for direct application in the workplace. These include:
- Modular Rule Book (GE/RT8000)
- Working Manual for Rail Staff: Handling and Carriage of Dangerous Goods (GO/RM3053 'Pink Pages')
- Working Manual for Rail Staff: Freight Train Operations (GO/RM3056 'White Pages')
A subsidiary publication, called Changes to National Operations Publications, contains new and previously published amendments to National Operations Publications, which are considered too urgent to await a complete reissue of the document concerned.
Although not National Operations Publications, there are also 'Good Practice Handbooks' which are associated with instructions in the Rule Book.
New Approach to the Rule Book project
Under the leadership of RSSB the industry is embarking on an ambitious project to transform the content and presentation of the rules currently published in the Rule Book. The project is entitled the “New Approach” and the programme to systematically review and revise all modules that make up the current version of the Rule Book is scheduled to take four years.
Further details on project can be found on the 'New Approach' webpage. In addition, some New Approach project Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) have been developed and can be viewed on the New Approach to the Rule Book (FAQs) page of the website.
Rule Book (GE/RT8000)
The Modular Rule Book was introduced in June 2003. It is made up of task based modules and handbooks covering a variety of operational activities which are designed for specific groups of staff. The modules can be obtained singly so that a custom-built Rule Book can be made up which is specifically applicable to an individual's role.
Click on the module icon for more information on the Rule Book
Rule Book Briefing Leaflet (RBBL)
RBBLs are produced twice a year. In March and September. The following link will take you to the latest RBBL.
Changes to National Operations Publications (GE/RT8001)
National Operations Publications set out mandatory requirements for direct application in the workplace and will be subject to frequent change. This Railway Group Standard GE/RT8001 – Changes to National Operations Publications will be published up to four times in each year and will be used to inform Duty Holders who produce a Periodical Operating Notice (PON) of any amendments made to these documents. These amendments will continue to be published in GE/RT8001 until such time as the individual specified operations publication is reissued or the amendment is issued as part of the amendments module (GE/RT8000/AM).
Click on the document icon for the latest GE/RT8001.
Questions about national operations publications
You should contact the enquiry desk who will deal with your enquiry in liaison with operations specialists within the Traffic Operation and Management Standards Delivery Unit at RSSB. Questions related to the meaning of any instructions contained in a either the Rule Book or the working manuals can be addressed. The enquiry desk can be contacted on 020 3142 5400 or enquirydesk@rssb.co.uk.
Ordering national operations publications
Those who need to order copies of the modules should contact Willsons Printers on 01636 702 334.