scope:

Scope

This SIN applies to all longitudinal bearer systems (sometimes known as waybeams, wheel-timbers and longitudinal timbers) on Network Rail infrastructure. It includes longitudinal bearer systems in platforms and on bridges.

This SIN focuses on the LBS only and does not include the 'structure' that supports longitudinal bearer systems managed by the RAM (Structures).

NOTE: NR/L2/TRK/3038 defines the area of responsibility for bridges which carry longitudinal bearer systems.

Purpose

Following recent failures of Longitudinal Bearer Systems (LBS) the purpose of this SIN is to

a) understand the existing risk level presented by LBS;

b) prioritise the tactile inspection of the highest risk assets;

c) instigate a deliverable plan of work to manage the risk presented by LBS; and

d) provide assurance to the business that the risks from longitudinal bearer systems are reduced to as low a level as possible.