scope:

This standard applies to all Network Rail and contractor staff including planning teams and line managers/supervisors when planning/preparing to perform any work from any discipline in an area that includes third/fourth rail systems.

The standard applies to both routine and non routine work including reactive maintenance and/or fault finding in infrastructure areas with third/fourth rail systems.

It does not include work inside DC substations which is subject to the requirements of NR/SP/ELP/21060.

It does not include activities associated with taking isolations NR/WI/ELP/3091, NR/WI/ELP/27051 or NR/WI/ELP/27052.

This standard does not directly deal with the risk of fouling open lines or live conductor rails on open lines by plant, equipment or materials.

NOTE Planners/Managers/Contractors should take account of all these risks associated with working on railway infrastructure when planning tasks on infrastructure which is in the vicinity of live conductor rail equipment.

Purpose

This standard details the process for planning safe access and safe working arrangements for Network Rail staff and/or contractors working on or adjacent to conductor rail(s).