Integrated systems assurance plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of railway systems. Adherence to rigorous assurance is particularly important when changes are being planned or made to existing systems and when new systems are being introduced. Such assurance enables systems operators to verify that the new or modified systems are designed, implemented and maintained to meet the relevant safety and performance standards efficiently and effectively.

The five case studies are examples of systems assurance in practice so that you can identify applicable lessons for future projects.

Merseytravel new fleet introduction 

This case study examines the approach taken to introduce a new fleet that’s in keeping with Merseytravel’s sustainability and accessibility objectives. It considers the integration across platforms, track, signalling and power.

Crewe programme 

This case study looks at the programme of 18 individual projects to improve capacity, access and facilities at Crewe station and to provide a passenger interchange between existing Network Rail infrastructure and HS2.

Handsacre Junction 

This case study considers the proposed junction on the West Coast Main Line to connect the new HS2 network with existing Network Rail infrastructure.

TransPennine route upgrade 

This case study explains the approach taken through a dedicated Technical Design Authority to manage the interfaces across Network Rail, Northern, and TransPennine Express.

Crossrail 

This case study describes how the Crossrail project established a system review panel for managing the interfaces across the Elizabeth line.