scope:

This engineering policy is applicable to functions in Network Rail responsible for the engineering management of Plant and T&RS assets, from here on referred to as the "Asset Management Team". For clarity, engineering management activities include:

• Hire (which includes lease or loan)

• Procurement

• Operation Maintenance (which includes overhaul)

• Modification (which includes experiments)

• Use (which includes loading and unloading)

• Storage

• Disposal

Plant and T&RS assets are defined by the following categories:

1. Traction and Rolling Stock (T&RS)

2. On Track Machines (OTM);

3. On Track Plant (OTP);

4. Portable and Transportable plant;

5. Fixed Plant; 6. Depot Plant.

The Asset Management Team shall include the Network Rail organisational functions specifically responsible for managing Plant and T&RS assets (owned, hired or leased) and functions or projects responsible for the introduction and use of new or modified Plant and T&RS assets and technologies.

Where the Plant and T&RS assets are operated on behalf of Network Rail and engineering responsibility is provided through a third party, the Asset Management Team is required to assure themselves that the supplier is compliant with the requirements of this Policy.

Purpose

This policy identifies the minimum engineering requirements for all technical and engineering activities related to Plant and Traction and Rolling Stock (T&RS) assets where Network Rail has an engineering responsibility. The policy fulfils three key objectives:

• Provide clarity on how to achieve the requirements for the safe acquisition, introduction, operation and use of Plant and/or T&RS assets from an engineering perspective throughout their intended life.

• Description of the arrangements in place to allow Network Rail to fulfil the responsibilities of an Entity in Charge of Maintenance (ECM).

• Give a Railway Undertaking the confidence and assurance through a clearly controlled structure which demonstrates that Network Rail's Plant and/or T&RS assets are safe to operate and use.

The existence of this Policy and the supporting standards does not preclude third parties (acting as contractors to Network Rail) from using their own documentation processes provided that:

• They are equivalent (or better) and provide a continuing level of asset protection acceptable to Network Rail.

• They have been accepted in advance, in writing by the Professional Head [Plant and T&RS].

• They are clearly identified in the relevant contract.