scope:

Purpose

This module specifies the minimum actions to be taken on discovery of a defect on fixed, 35mm adjustable and tubular stretcher bar assemblies.

The following rules apply to the action tables:

a) if you are unsure of the appropriate minimum action, seek advice from your supervisor or section manager. If advice cannot be provided, or you suspect that the integrity of the stretcher bar system is compromised due to a combination of defects, block the line.

b) inform the signaller immediately for all defects requiring the immediate imposition of speed restrictions

c) inform infrastructure fault control of all stretcher bar defects

d) investigate all defects to try to identify a root cause for the failure

e) as instructed, complete an inspection to confirm that all restrictions remain valid and that the protection provided remains secure

f) where a watchman is appointed they shall inspect the S&C at a frequency determined jointly by the TME and STME. The TME and STME shall review the risk posed by the defect and the frequency and speed of traffic. This may result in the watchman inspecting after every train or at regular time intervals (for example, every hour).

g) record all defects in the Fault Management System (FMS).

h) all stretcher bar defects shall be recorded in the Ellipse Asset Condition Module.

i) where follow up actions require the replacement of a fixed or 35mm adjustable with a tubular stretcher bar this only applies to compatible S&C. For incompatible S&C a like for like replacement shall be undertaken.

j) where follow up actions are not completed within the required timescale these shall be escalated to the RAM[S] to authorise the deviation.