scope:

The Rule Book directs how this work is to be safely carried out. The instructions contained in this handbook are to be read in conjunction with the Rule Book, which they are intended to supplement, and in no way replace.

Occupational safety requirements given are only related to specific S&T tasks. More general health and safety information should be obtained from elsewhere, including the references in the Further Information sections, which are primarily provided to enable supervisors to give further advice.

Signalling Maintenance Specifications in the NR/SMS series are to take priority over equivalent maintenance procedures mentioned in these instructions.

The word technician in this handbook refers to any person engaged in work on S&T apparatus, whether maintainer, installer, tester or investigator. However the "signalling technician" referred to in module T1A of the Rule Book refers to the S&T person who is in charge of the work. Only the person in charge is authorised to dictate or to countersign entries in the train register relating to work being undertaken.

Reference to Train Register includes any other book or form provided for the purpose of recording times and exceptional circumstances, e.g. "occurrences book".

These General Instructions are not primarily intended for telecoms engineering staff, who should refer to telecoms standards for supplementary requirements.

Purpose

General Instructions to Staff Working on S&T Equipment covers personal safety issues and highlights the essential features of S&T equipment. The handbook includes information not covered by the Rule Book which is necessary for any S&T staff involved in lineside or technical work.