scope:

This Work Instruction:

a) applies to Track engineering renewals and/or maintenance activities that might require the disturbance of signal engineering equipment, systems or cables.

NOTE: On DC Electrified lines this includes work on traction return bonding.

b) manages signal involvement in track engineering work.

Similar planning arrangements are contractually agreed where Network Rail:

a) is requested to provide signal engineering cover for outside parties; or

b) procures the services of a signal engineering subcontractor to support permanent way work.

It only applies where the Signal & Telecoms Maintenance Engineer authorises its use.

It modifies the Signal Maintenance Testing Handbook to allow certain track engineering work without signal engineering attendance and in particular NR/SMTH/Part4/TC00.

If the Signal & Telecoms Maintenance Engineer does not authorise implementation of this work instruction, the full requirements of the Signal Maintenance Testing Handbook shall be complied with.

Purpose

This Work Instruction:

a) reduces the risk of serious wrong side failures from the execution of track engineering work with inadequate signal engineering involvement;

b) confirms that signal engineering resources are coordinated in support of civil and track engineering work during maintenance and minor renewals so that:

1) signal engineering equipment is not damaged by the work;

2) no employee is subject to high voltages from track circuit equipment;

3) equipment is left operationally safe when the work is completed.

NOTE: Examples of track engineering work that requires signal engineering support are given in Appendix A and specific guidance on the "Like for Like" renewal of IRJs is given in Appendix E.

c) reduces unscheduled maintenance.