scope:

This document covers the procedures for:

a) selecting earthworks (or sections of lines) for inclusion in an A/EWP

b) identifying the actions to be taken during A/EW events to maintain levels of safety and performance

c) developing, reviewing and updating an A/EWP.

These procedures apply to all earthworks within the Network Rail boundary, and slopes outside of the boundary which may affect the Network Rail infrastructure.

The threat of A/EW to earthworks relates only to intense or prolonged rainfall or flooding. It does not include strong winds, drought or extreme temperatures.

Purpose

Earthworks identified from risk assessment as Risk level 4 (as described in Appendix A.5) of failure from Adverse/Extreme Weather (A/EW) will be reviewed for inclusion in an Adverse/Extreme Weather Plan (A/EWP).

This plan contains the actions required to mitigate the risk to the safe operation or performance of the railway infrastructure during A/EW.

This procedure manages the control, 'weather - managing operational risk' mitigating the following risks:

• Loss of track support and/or geometry and slope failure;

• Slope failure leading to loss of kinematic envelope and/or track geometry.