RAI/Track Safety/TBT-RAI-013

Platform Works Safety

Rail Works › Track Safety › Platform Works Safety

Presenter		Project
Location		Date

Railway platform works include construction, extension, resurfacing, and installation of furniture and shelters.
Platforms are located adjacent to running lines with trains potentially passing at high speed during works.
A safe system of work plan (SSOWP) must define whether works are carried out under possession or with lookouts.
The platform edge creates a fall hazard into the track area — edge protection is often impracticable due to train operations.
Materials must be stored clear of the platform edge to prevent them falling onto the track.
Overhead line equipment (OLE) may be present above the platform, requiring electrical isolation or safe distances.
Public access to the station during works requires careful management to protect both passengers and workers.
Night possessions are commonly used for platform works to minimise disruption to train services.
Heavy paving slabs, coping stones, and platform furniture require manual handling assessment and mechanical aids.
All operatives must hold a valid PTS card and any additional competencies required by the SSOWP.

Train strike risk	Platforms are adjacent to running lines — workers can be struck by trains if the safe system fails.
Public interface	Station platforms are public spaces — works must protect passengers as well as construction workers.
Electrical hazards	Overhead line equipment above platforms carries 25kV — contact or proximity causes instant electrocution.

Don't

Confirm the SSOWP is in place and understood before starting any platform work
Hold a valid PTS card and any additional role-specific competencies required
Maintain safe distance from the platform edge unless the line is blocked to traffic
Store all materials and equipment clear of the platform edge and track area
Observe OLE isolation requirements and maintain safe clearance from live overhead wires
Coordinate with station staff on public access management during the works
Use mechanical aids for handling heavy paving slabs, copings, and platform furniture
Attend the safety briefing from the COSS before each shift or possession
Wear orange high-visibility clothing as required by rail industry standards
Keep escape routes on the platform clear and signed throughout the works

DON'T work on the platform without a valid SSOWP and PTS card
DON'T approach the platform edge while trains are running without protection in place
DON'T store materials or tools where they could fall onto the railway track
DON'T raise equipment or materials above head height near live overhead line equipment
DON'T allow members of the public to enter the active work zone on the platform
DON'T carry out work during train operations unless the SSOWP specifically permits it
DON'T manually handle heavy platform components without assessment and mechanical aids
DON'T ignore lookout warnings — move immediately to your position of safety
DON'T use power tools that could eject debris onto the railway track
DON'T leave the work area untidy during public hours — trip hazards endanger passengers

See also: Rail Safety Awareness | Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) Safety

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