scope:

This standard applies to all employees with operational responsibilities who are competent to work within the operations environment in Network Rail Regions and Routes. Specifically, it covers: 

a) the arrangements for issue of the NOPs;

b) the process for changing their content; and

c) the arrangements for review / audit.

The instructions apply to all Frontline Operations and Region / Route based teams, Network Rail Managed Stations, Network Rail Route Controls and the National Operations Centre. In addition, they will be made available to Train Operating Companies (TOCs) / Freight Operating Companies (FOCs) as appropriate.

Purpose 

This standard provides an index of the National Operating Procedures (NOPs) manual which contains a mandatory and unified suite of procedures for all Network Rail with operational responsibilities. 

These procedures mitigate the risks associated with an operational railway and the NOPs are guided by Health and Safety law, regulations and guidance, leading into our Health and Safety Management System. 

These instructions provide the standards and the processes for a consistent application across all of Network Rail and align procedures with the ATOC Good Practice Guides and Guidance Notes. 

NOTE: Risk mitigations are contained in the individual procedures.