A possession is a period when a section of the railway is closed to train movements, allowing safe access for construction and maintenance work. Setting up the possession involves placing detonators, blocking signals, and establishing worksite protection to prevent trains from entering the work area. The possession must be confirmed by the signaller and all protection verified before anyone enters the track. Working outside a correctly established possession or beyond the limits of the worksite is immediately life-threatening.
Key Hazards
Train entering the work area due to incorrect or incomplete possession setup
Workers venturing beyond the defined limits of the protected worksite
Possession being handed back prematurely while workers are still on the track
Electrified track not confirmed isolated before workers access the rail corridor
Control Measures
Confirm the possession is correctly granted by the signaller before accessing the track area.
Verify all worksite protection measures are in place including detonators and signals at danger.
Ensure the PICOP (Person in Charge of Possession) has confirmed the possession limits to all work teams.
Display the safe work pack at the worksite entrance showing the possession limits and arrangements.
Brief all workers on the worksite limits and prohibit anyone from moving beyond the defined boundary.
Confirm OLE isolation or third rail isolation where required before any work begins.
Maintain a register of all persons on the track and conduct regular headcounts throughout the possession.
Follow the agreed handback procedure ensuring all persons, plant, and materials are clear of the track.
Maintain communication with the signaller and PICOP throughout the entire possession period.
Remember
A possession must be confirmed by the signaller before any person sets foot on the track.
Working beyond the worksite limits places you on unprotected track where trains may be running.
Electrical isolation of OLE or third rail must be confirmed in writing before anyone accesses the corridor.
The safe work pack at the worksite entrance defines the exact limits of your protected area.
Headcounts must be maintained throughout the possession to account for every person on the track.
Handback must follow the agreed procedure with confirmed clearance of all persons and equipment.
Applicable Legislation: Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems Regulations 2006 · Network Rail Rule Book · CDM Regulations 2015 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974