scope:

This standard specifies the engineering requirements guidance for the management of wheelsets fitted to rail vehicles owned by Network Rail.

All references to 'Network Rail vehicles' in this standard relate to rail vehicles owned, lease funded or procured through a contracted service, furthermore, they may be operated by NR staff or a third party.

Further information on the Network Rail vehicles covered by the manual are listed in the Network Rail 'Rail Vehicle Asset Register'.

Purpose

The implementation of this standard helps to mitigate the following risks:

a) non-compliance with current legislation and regulatory requirements; and

b) operational safety risks on Network Rail managed infrastructure:

• The dangerous use of Network Rail owned or hired in equipment containing wheelsets due to:

     o incorrect work planning

     o operation by non-competent staff

     o poor asset condition

     o misuse of equipment

• operation of rail equipment containing wheelsets without the correct documentation in place; and

• lack of accident management process in place for Equipment containing wheelsets accidents.

This standard is written in accordance with the requirements of NR/L1/RMVP/0001, NR/L2/RMVP/0090, GM/RT 2466, RIS-2766-RST and the associated guidance notes.