scope:

This Business Process Document details the requirements and guidance for those engaged in site investigation scoping, site investigations, design, specifying track renewals and the installation of the track bed. Background information is provided to facilitate further understanding of track bed failure mechanisms and the rationale in support of the design solutions.

This document applies to all ballasted track and provides details on the process to be undertaken to ensure the required level of desk study and site investigation is undertaken to support a robust track bed design. It applies to routine track renewals, enhancements and remodelling schemes.

It does not apply to high speed lines above 125 mph.

Purpose

The document sets out a consistent technical approach to track bed diagnosis, investigation and design. This is to reduce the risk of premature track bed failures and high frequency of maintenance interventions following track renewals work.