scope:

Scope and Modules

This standard applies to all those required to work on 25 kV a.c. electrified lines, or so near to them that danger might arise, including persons who:

a) assess electrical risk;

b) plan, prepare and implement mitigations of electrical risk such as isolating, earthing and issuing of formal safety assurance documents;

c) install, test, operate, maintain, repair and dismantle 25 kV a.c. overhead line equipment and traction return systems;

d) use special tools to work on live overhead line equipment; or

e) work on rail vehicles or other equipment within 2.75 metres (9 feet) of overhead line equipment normally energised at 25 kV a.c.;

f) work on or about any future sections of electrification on Network Rail controlled infrastructure and areas required to adopt a process for securing points of disconnection to form points of isolation to implement a Supplementary Isolation Process (Module X);

g) plan, prepare and implement isolations on 750V d.c. overhead line equipment system (Sheffield Tram Train - Module Y);

h) work on or about 25kV electrified lines except for areas undertaking the trial of the Single Approach to Isolations on 25kV a.c. infrastructure and Network Rail controlled infrastructure equipped with the 1500V d.c. overhead line system.

It is applicable to Network Rail personnel and to Network Rail's contractors.

To provide a consistent approach to working on or about 25 kV a.c. electrified lines, Train Operating Companies may, as best practice, apply this standard to infrastructure they control.

Purpose

This modular standard sets out a consistent approach to working on or about 25 kV electrified lines in relation to the dangers arising from proximity to live equipment. This overarching standard for the modules provides an introduction to the suite of modules and consistent use of terminology in the application of the standard.

This standard and each of its modules should be read in conjunction with all other standards relevant to the activity to be undertaken.

NOTE: Further requirements are contained in the Rule Book Module AC (GE/RT8000/AC) and Handbook 16 (GE/RT8000/HB16).

Compliance with this standard will mitigate the risks of electric shock or equipment damage resulting from uncontrolled approach to, or contact with, live overhead line equipment, high voltage bushings or cable sealing ends or through mishandling of conductors carrying electric traction current. Compliance with this standard will also mitigate the risks of injury or equipment damage resulting from incorrect or uncoordinated installation, testing, operation, maintenance, repair and dismantling of 25 kV a.c. electrified equipment.