Control, Command and Signalling
The Control, Command and Signalling Standards Committee (CCS SC) has had another good year, all decisions taken were compliant with the Code. The focus has continued on the development and publication of new and revised industry standards. Two significant standards have been updated: RIS-0793-CCS issue one Level Crossing Systems and GKRT0057 issue two Lineside Signal and Indicator Product Design and Assessment Requirements. In addition, five standards have been updated and two guidance notes revised this year. All other work on CCS standards projects over the last twelve months has been on target and are proceeding according to their plans.
The strategic focus areas and enabler-tasks outlined in the CCS SC strategy are progressing well. The strategy's success hinges on the collaborative efforts of RSSB, its members, and the broader industry. The 'Overrun Risk Evaluation and Assessment' standard, a key CCS initiative, has been completed for publication in early 2025. This project establishes a process to manage the risk of trains exceeding their limits of movement authority on lines equipped with both lineside and in-cab signalling systems. By employing a model-based systems engineering approach, the project has proven effective in delivering enhanced requirements and providing clear traceability to the hazards it seeks to address. Additionally, CCS SC continues to play a significant role in BSI/European and IEC standards drafting groups, contributing to the development of PT 63452 Railway applications Cybersecurity, a draft international standard on railway cybersecurity. All these activities were outlined within the strategy.
RIS-0793-CCS issue one Level Crossing Systems is a completely new standard setting out requirements and guidance for systems that are provided to mitigate the risk of collision of a train with a level crossing user. See ‘key achievements’ for more details.
GKRT0057 issue two Lineside Signal and Indicator Product Design and Assessment Requirements sets out the technical parameters for lineside signalling hardware and displays, and the scope of readability assessment applicable to product certification. The standard specifies design requirements of lineside signal and indicator products and the assessment process. Equipment conformity is critical for safe operation of the railway system. The changes include improved rationale and guidance, providing useful information to designers and assessors.
The CCS NTSN/TSI Mirror Group meets regularly and reports periodically to CCS SC. Over the past year, the group has experienced increased interest and membership. The group's focus has been on creating the business case for change and drafting the proposed text for the CCS NTSN. In February 2024, CCS SC approved the CCS NTSN as the formal recommendation for submission to the Department for Transport. Publication is hoped for soon.
A significant development in the recommended CCS NTSN is the inclusion of a new specific case for suppressing onboard Class B system protection in Level National Train Control, Shunting Mode. The GB ETCS Change Request Review Group, a subgroup of the Mirror Group, has submitted a change request to the CCS TSI to address this specific case at the European level. Throughout the second half of the year, the group has been monitoring European activities and anticipates changes to the TSI in early 2025. These will need to be considered for the CCS NTSN.
CCS SC have now filled the two vacant positions for the categories of infrastructure contractor and ROSCO. Representation from the freight sector has improved with the committee being well supported, despite the sector challenge in terms of resource. Throughout the year, committee meetings have remained quorate.
Ged NeacyChair of the Control Command and Signalling Standards Committee
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