scope:

This manual contains:

a) key principles for the management of risk;

b) asset knowledge; and

c) the impact of vegetation on other assets.

The manual applies to inspecting, managing and maintaining lineside vegetation and all who are involved in those activities.

Out of scope for this process are:

a) management of vegetation necessary only for the stability and security of e arthworks and structures;

b) management and inspection of vegetation in advance or in response to adverse/severe weather events which is included within NR/L2/OPS/021 'Weather - managing the operational risks'; and

d) environmental and community requirements for vegetation management.

Purpose

Lineside vegetation management is a process that uses risk assessment to contribute to the sustainable management of the lineside estate and the safe running of the railway infrastructure.

Risk from lineside vegetation is controlled by inspection, management and maintenance. These activities protect the Network Rail workforce and third parties against harm.

Responsible management of vegetation and respecting our neighbours improves the resilience of lineside environments and stakeholder relations.

Lineside vegetation includes areas on the operational railway, closed lines, nonoperational or third party land.

Management of lineside vegetation is a control from the threats identified on bow tie 'railway or third party vegetation affecting safety' and co ntrols or mitigates the following risks:

a) trees within falling distance of the track or third party land;

b) vegetation affecting:

1. overhead line equipment;

2. signal sighting;

3. level crossing sighting;

4. position of safety/refuge;

5. railway vehicles by damage to rolling stock;

6. railway access;

7. inspection of assets;

8. renewal of other assets; and

9. enhancement projects;

c) leaf fall affecting the railway;

d) injurious and invasive weeds; and

e) damage to railway infrastructure or third parties.

Planned maintenance helps to deliver the most effective management regime once a compliant profile has been achieved.