Press Releases

Back to press index

Rail industry takes hold of its standard

From this week, the rail industry has much greater control of the process for creating safety standards through a consensus-based process that is overseen by the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB). This change to the system for creating rules supports the rail industry objectives of providing a safe, reliable and efficient railway.

The new ‘Railway Group Standards Code’ was developed through wide industry consultation and provides for greater industry participation in the process of drafting standards.

The full set of Railway Group Standards are also now available on the RSSB website – www.rssb.co.uk to provide much more direct access to standards, and future consultations will also be published on the web. A dedicated enquiry desk also provides help to the industry through advice on Railway Group Standards.

Anson Jack, Acting Director Standards at Rail Safety and Standards Board, said; ‘This is an important step forward for the industry and is a tangible process which encourages closer working of rail industry parties in ensuring standards for the network are robust, workable and collaborative. RSSB looks forward to supporting the industry under the new Railway Group Standards Code.’

Chris Leah, Director, Safety and Compliance at Network Rail said; ‘I am delighted that the new Code has now been accepted. The industry must now take this opportunity to ensure that its standards are robust and fit for purpose.’

On behalf of the Association of Train Operators, David Weir said; ‘We welcome and support the introduction of the new Railway Group Standards Code. The changed arrangements enable train operators to have greater involvement in the processes of developing and agreeing new standards.’

Jeremy Canfield, Director General of the Railway Industry Association, commented; ‘The production of the new Code has been a good example of how the different parts of the industry can work together effectively. Suppliers welcome the continuing moves towards clarity, simplification and greater co-operation, and are ready to play their part.’

ENDS

For further information please contact the Rail Safety and Standards Board press office, on 020 7904 7524/5

Notes to editors:

1. Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) was established on 1 April 2003. RSSB is an independent not-for-profit company owned by major stakeholders in the railway industry. The company is limited by guarantee and has a members’ council, a board and an advisory committee. It is independent of any single railway company and of their commercial interests.

2. The Railway Group Standards Code has been developed through a member driven process and approved by the Rail Regulator.

3. The purpose of Railway Group Standards is to provide a framework for system safety and safe interworking by developing clear, concise and cost effective standards, which encourage compliance and consistency without hindering innovation.

4. RSSB is responsible for the production and upkeep of Railway Group Standards. Mandated on Railway Group members, they are technical and operational standards which set out the requirements for system safety and safe interworking.