scope:

The locks and keys covered by this process include all those used to access signalling and telecommunications operational equipment. This includes any special order lock types configured to accept operational keys. These keys include at present:

Grand Master Key (JW442), 86/29006

Sub-master Key, 86/29005

RKB222 Key, 86/29001

RKB221 Key, 86/29002

Grandmaster Locks, 11/44162, 11/44217 and 86/29012

Sub-master Locks, 11/44159, 11/44215 and 86/29011

RKB222 Locks, 86/29004 and 86/29008

RKB221 Locks, 86/29003, 86/29007 and 86/29009

Purpose

There is a need to control the issue of keys allowing access to operational signalling and telecoms equipment to ensure only those competent to work in the vicinity of such equipment can access it. This is to ensure risk to the operational railway is minimised. This procedure explains the process that has been agreed between Network Rail and Unipart Rail to control the issue of S&T safety locks and keys by Unipart Rail.

The principle behind issue of keys to any party is that they are either a Network Rail employee requiring access to operational equipment as part of their duties or they are a contractor working on behalf of Network Rail with similar needs. In both instances keys shall only be issued to employees for the duration of time that they have duties requiring such access. Thus Network Rail contract managers shall ensure that keys are returned to Network Rail by a contractor at the end of a contract. Network Rail line managers shall ensure that keys are withdrawn from any individual leaving the company or transferring to a role within the company which no longer requires operational access.