GERT8000-HB1 Iss 8

This handbook is for those personnel who need to go on the operational railway to carry out their duties, with the exception of a train driver, guard, shunter, signaller, crossing keeper or designated person (DP).

The introduction of a new industry standard regarding the operation of route-proving trains (RIS-3771-TOM) also includes supplementary rules for staff travelling on the train to assist in asset inspection or clearing debris from the route. A new section 5.9 which sets out rules regarding alighting the train during route proving has been added. 

The requirements concerning walking on or near the line were generic and took no account of the varying levels of competency among the intended audience. There were differing interpretations as to what was intended to be permitted.

To address this, sections 4 and 5 have been revised to: 

• provide a clear definition within the Rule Book of when walking on or near the line is permitted and for what reasons
• define the extent to which walking can be permitted for varying levels of competency 
• define the permitted arrangements for crossing lines open to traffic when walking.

Section 2.3, ‘Getting on and off moving rail vehicles’, has been revised to introduce the ability to get on a moving rail vehicle designed for continuous slow speed movement.
Sections three, four, five and nine have been revised to remove obsolete references to safe work leader (SWL).

The changes contribute to reducing safety risks in a critical and high-profile area. In doing so, there are expected to be benefits to reliability of operations and efficiency of engineering activity. 

Optional reading and resources:

Standards quarterly webinar - September 2024 - Walking on or near the line

Standards quarterly webinar - September 2024 - Line proving trains

RED 56 - Close Calls and Near Misses

Track Worker Safety Data Insights