PTS Personal Track Safety

PTS/Personal Track Safety A running line is a line used by trains to go from place to place. Each running line has a name. Up is towards the principal city or town and Down is away from the principal city or town. Details are given in a document called the Sectional Appendix. Sidings, depots and yards are not running lines and are not usually shown in the Sectional Appendix. In the pictures below, the camera is looking in the direction trains travel. The points on the left are ‘facing’ – they allow trains to leave the line – whilst, on the right, they are ‘trailing’ – allowing trains to join. The speed limit usually changes in these junction areas, but not always. Mileposts are positioned alongside the railway – usually every quarter of a mile – to help identify the location. Operational Railway - The area known as ‘on the lineside’ and the area called ‘on or near the line’ are collectively known as the ‘operational railway’. On the Lineside - You are ‘on the lineside’ if you are between the railway boundary fence and the area known as ‘on or near the line’ You are not considered to be ‘on the lineside’ if you are standing on a station platform. On or Near the Line - ▪ You are considered ‘on or near the line’ if you are on the line itself or ▪ You are within 3 Metres (Approx 10 feet) of the nearest rail of any line and there is no permanent fence or structure between you and the line, or ▪ You are within 1.25 Metres (Approx 4 feet) of the platform edge and carrying out work such as white line painting You are not considered to be on or near the line when crossing at a level crossing or just standing on a platform THE CESS The space alongside the line or lines on the outside edge of the running rail. 4 FOOT The space between the rails of one line 6 FOOT The space between one running line and another, (lines normal distance apart) 10 FOOT The space between one line and another, where there is a wide space between lines and there are 3 lines or more. A Refuge - A place specially designed where it is safe for you to stand when a train passes. A refuge may be located in: • The wall of a tunnel, bridge, or similar structure • A bridge parapet • The side of a cutting • A specially constructed platform over a slope or embankment, often near signalling equipment for routine access Position of safety - A position of safety is a place where it is safe to stand when a train is passing. • At least 2 metres (6 feet 6 inches) from the nearest line if the train can exceed 100 mph. • At least 1.25 metres (4 feet) if the speed limit is 100 mph or lower. • You must reach this position at least 10 seconds before a train passes. An authorised walking route offers safe access to or from work areas, commonly found near depots, stations, and signal boxes. These routes can range from formal walkways to rough paths. Specific details are provided in the Hazard Directory. You must keep to authorised walking routes whenever possible Going ‘On the Lineside’ • Only go “On the Lineside” when your duties require it. • Wear a clean, approved High Visibility Vest (HVV) with reflective markings at night. • Use an approved access point to enter the railway. • Obey all warning signs, lights, and bells. • Continuously look and listen for approaching trains or movements. • Raise one arm to acknowledge an approaching train's audible warning horn. Going ‘On or Near the Line’ • Only go “On or Near the Line” when your duties require it. • Wear a clean, approved High Visibility Vest (HVV) with reflective markings at night, Safety Shoes, and any other required PPE. • Be aware of the direction and speed of trains, especially in areas with bi-directional working (e.g., Reversible Lines or SIMBIDS). This info is found in the Sectional Appendix. • Use an approved access point to enter the railway. • Be certified in Personal Track Safety (PTS), carry your valid PTS card, and meet the required medical standards (PTS certification is valid for 2 years). You may access the railway without a PTS card if you: 1. Are receiving formal PTS training, under direct supervision of a COSS, and have received a safety briefing. 2. Are using an Authorised Walking Route with proper authority. 3. Have a Track Visitor’s Permit are accompanied by a COSS and have received a safety briefing. 4. Are acting in an emergency to prevent death or major injury, ensuring it is safe and avoiding contact with rails or electrical equipment.