Proving the route
RSSB’s Tom Waghorn explains how collaboration with Network Rail and the Rail Delivery Group has addressed route proving, an issue raised by the Carmont accident of 2020.
12 August 2020 is a day etched into the minds of many rail staff, particularly those newer to the industry, as so much time had elapsed since the last major accident on the network.
RAIB made many recommendations as a result of the Carmont accident, including the need to clarify the arrangements for running route-proving trains. Route proving involves working a train on a line that’s been closed due to an extreme weather event, much like the one on the eve of the Carmont accident.
RAIB said this work was to be carried out by RSSB, with assistance from Network Rail and the Rail Delivery Group. So, with the input of mainline railway experts, we have developed a brand-new Rail Industry Standard, RIS-3771-TOM. The ‘RIS’ is supplemented by new rules on the subject in Rule Book modules TW1, HB1, and HB8. There are also new rules in module TS1 for the operation of line-proving trains.
Welcomed consistency
Route proving isn’t a new concept, but the process differed across routes and areas of the country. Additionally, more guidance was needed for trains operators and their signallers, drivers, and on-track staff to allow for a more consistent process. This is what RIS-3771-TOM and its supplementary rules set out.
With climate change and the threat of more extreme weather, it’s likely that route controllers and operators will close routes more often. We saw this in Scotland earlier this year, when many route-proving trains ran following extreme weather to make sure the infrastructure was safe for traffic.
Line proving
Network Rail requested that we include guidance on operating line-proving trains in RIS-3771-TOM. Line proving, also not a new concept, means running a train on a piece of track to make sure the signalling equipment is working correctly after a prolonged closure. It can also help identify any other issues, like rail adhesion or traction current challenges. Supplementary rules for signallers have been added to a new section of TS1. They give instructions on monitoring track circuit indications as well as the correct use of level crossing controls.
RIS-3771-TOM will also feed into operating procedures created by Network Rail and transport operators. This will give their controllers a more defined process to ensure further collaboration between both sides.
RIS-3771-TOM will be published soon, and we look forward to hosting a webinar later this year to go through it. Keep an eye on our events webpage so you can sign up to attend.
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