Operational Safety

Communications

OFG sponsors several communication channels with the aim of raising awareness of good practice in dealing with SPAD and operational safety issues and improving safety culture throughout the industry.

Freedom to Train Workshop

The successful Freedom to Train Workshop took place in York on 22 September 2009. The event was very well received by all and attracted 82 delegates from 35 organisations. A copy of the syndicate presentations or supporting papers can be found by clicking on the titles in the workshop table below.

If you require any further information about this event please contact Susan Cassidy, Programme Manager, Operational Safety by e-mail: susan.cassidy@rssb.co.uk

This new DVD combines 31 minutes of video and animation with interactive exercises, addressing topics such as managing shift work and fatigue, getting support for personal problems and maintaining concentration while driving. It is produced by the Rail Safety and Standards Board for Britain’s passenger and freight train drivers and On Track Machines (OTM) operators. To order copies, email: driver@lucidcommunications.co.uk Please state your delivery address and the number of copies required.

Website – OPSWEB

Opsweb is an on line resource centre designed for the rail industry to access and share information and resources on operational safety, in a secure environment. The site includes details of publications, industry groups, SPAD and TPWS data, training and briefing tools and resources on safety critical communications and SPAD management. Launched in 2007, Opsweb is a 'one-stop shop' for all operational safety information - it's aimed at personnel engaged in the physical operation of the railway including train driving, signalling, station management, and those working on the track.

Opsweb is only available to companies engaged in operating the running railway and is accessed via a log-in email address and password. Each registration is approved based on the applicant's involvement in the industry - ie whether they are employed by a railway undertaking such as an infrastructure manager or train or freight operating company.

As a contributor-based website, Opsweb relies on content and material submitted from a wide range of industry organisations - from passenger operators to regulatory bodies - input from these companies keeps the site fresh and relevant.

The site is supported by an editorial group drawn from RSSB members. The group is facilitated by RSSB and meets every three months, and is responsible for strategic direction of the site and approving new material and editorial changes.

Opsweb is sponsored by Operations Focus Group (OFG).

To register for access, go to: www.opsweb.co.uk or contact Catherine Gallagher, Programme Manager on catherine.gallagher@rssb.co.uk

"Red" is a series of programmes about operational safety initiatives,including SPADs, which are of interest to anyone operating and managing the railway: from drivers and signallers to managers and specialists at all levels.

By funding and facilitating this series, RSSB is hoping to assist OFG in promoting a more progressive and open safety culture in which there is respect for the contribution of all and recognition that there are still many systemic issues that must be addressed if improvements are to be delivered.

It is not a training tool - OFG hopes that it will help to shape the attitudes and perceptions of every viewer throughout the industry, by improving knowledge and understanding about SPADs and operational issues.

View briefers’ notes section for descriptions of programmes produced so far.

If would like to receive Red, or if you wish to alter the distribution arrangements for your organisation, please contact Susan Cassidy, Programme Manager, Operational Safety by e-mail: susan.cassidy@rssb.co.uk, or call 020 3142 5373.

ATOC Personal Track Safety (PTS) DVD version 2.0

The DVD provides full training and assessment materials for a personal track safety course for operational staff. The course has been produced specifically for the needs of the train, freight and infrastructure maintenance companies and is therefore separate form the Network Rail Sentinel Scheme.

The package provide training materials for a two day track safety course, covering all aspects of personal track safety topics such as the railway infrastructure signage, safe systems of work and emergency actions.

It is produced by the Rail Safety and Standards Board with endorsement from the ATOC Driver Management Group, and has been validated by a team of operational experts.

The course package contains assessment papers and it is intended for use by individuals delivering training to their organisation. If you are employed in a training role and wish to receive a free copy please visit the supporting website www.ptscourse.co.uk to complete an online application form.

For more information contact Catherine Gallagher, Programme Manager, on catherine.gallagher@rssb.co.uk or 020 3142 5374.

Aimed at drivers, signallers and their managers, Red Alert provides an overview of the various SPAD and operational-related initiatives and developments both on the national rail network and overseas. Issued three times a year, it is the focal point for communicating new ideas and updating readers on the work of the many rail organisations that have a positive impact on SPAD risk. To receive copies of Red Alert please contact watersa@halcrow.com.

TPWS in Practice is a new training DVD developed to promote a broader understanding of the Train Protection Warning System (TPWS) amongst drivers, signallers and managers ¡V whether they be newcomers or experienced staff that might require a refresh.

This DVD is produced by RSSB, with the endorsement from the Operations Focus Group and the ATOC Driver Management Group, and has been validated by a team of operational experts.

TPWS in Practice takes a look at all aspects of the system and is designed to provide its audience with a better overall awareness of the operation of TPWS.

It is a guide to all practical aspects of TPWS:

• Why it was implemented
• How it works
• How to operate it correctly
• How to rectify faults
• How to work together safely and efficiently if a driver experiences a brake demand

Also provided within the resources section of the DVD are briefers/trainers notes and training scenarios.

It has been designed in a modular format to enable the trainer to pick and choose the sections that are relevant to their audience or, if an understanding of the entire system is wanted, the whole DVD can be explored. It also enables you to check your knowledge by taking part in one of the quizzes.

To strengthen the integrity of the training, the TPWS in Practice DVD will only be made available to trainers and managers directly, with a controlled circulation.

For further information please contact Susan Cassidy, Programme Manager, Operational Safety by e-mail: susan.cassidy@rssb.co.uk or call 020 3142 5373.