Safe System of Work on or Near Track
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Safe System of Work on or Near Track
Working on or near the railway presents unique dangers including trains travelling at high speed with very little warning. A safe system of work must be in place for every activity near the operational railway. This talk explains the types of safe systems available, the role of key personnel, and the rules every worker must follow to stay safe on or near the track.
- Attend the site-specific safety briefing before accessing any area on or near the railway.
- Follow the designated safe system of work whether possession, line blockage, or lookout warning.
- Obey the Controller of Site Safety (COSS) or Person in Charge at all times on site.
- Stay within the defined safe zone and do not stray beyond the identified limits of work.
- Wear the required high-visibility clothing rated to Network Rail or relevant railway standards.
- Respond immediately to any warning signal by moving to the designated position of safety.
- Never touch or approach overhead line equipment or conductor rails unless authorised and isolated.
- Ensure all tools and materials are cleared from the track before the possession or blockage ends.
- Report any unsafe condition, near miss, or close call to the COSS without hesitation.
If you hear an emergency warning or see an approaching train outside a safe system, move immediately to the nearest position of safety. Raise the alarm using the agreed emergency signal and call the signaller.
- Never go on or near the track without a valid safe system of work in place
- Always attend the site briefing and understand the safe system before starting work
- Move immediately to the position of safety when any warning signal is given
- Overhead line equipment can kill at distance and must never be approached unless isolated
- Clear all tools and materials from the track before the end of any possession
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