Bridge Strikes from Road Vehicles or Waterborne Vessels

Transcription

1 Railway Group Standard Bridge Strikes from Road Vehicles or Waterborne Vessels Synopsis This document mandates requirements for the management of the risks to the operational railway from road vehicles or waterborne vessels striking bridges. Submitted by Elizabeth Fleming Standards Project Manager Authorised by Brian Alston Controller, Railway Group Standards This document is the property of Railway Safety. It shall not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the Controller, Railway Group Standards, Railway Safety. Published by: Railway Safety Evergreen House 160 Euston Road London NW1 2DX Copyright 2002 Railway Safety

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3 Railway Group Standard Page 1 of 30 Contents Section Description Page Part A A1 Issue record 3 A2 Implementation of this document 3 A3 Scope of Railway Group Standards 3 A4 Responsibilities 4 A5 Health and safety responsibilities 4 A6 Technical content 4 A7 Supply 4 Part B B1 Purpose 5 B2 Application of this document 5 B3 Definitions 6 B4 Principles 7 Part C Reducing the risk from bridge strikes C1 Identification, listing and prioritisation of bridges subject to bridge strikes 8 C2 Measures to reduce the risk from bridge strikes 9 C3 Provision of identification plates 10 C4 Design of new structures and structures subject to alteration 11 C5 Bridges owned by outside parties 11 Part D Managing bridge strike incidents D1 Procedures in the event of a reported bridge strike 13 D2 Action to be taken when a bridge strike is reported 13 D3 Late reported bridge strikes 13 D4 Conditions under which bridge strike examiners are permitted to act 13 D5 Conditions under which bridge strike nominees (Grade 1) are permitted to act 14 D6 Conditions under which bridge strike nominees (Grade 2) are permitted to act 14 D7 Actions of bridge strike nominees after allowing trains to pass 14 D8 Local operations instructions for use by signallers 15 D9 Additional structural examination following a reported bridge strike 16 D10 Classification, recording and reporting of bridge strikes 16 D11 Advice to British Transport Police 17 Part E Training, competence and certification E1 Application of Railways (Safety Critical Work) Regulations 18 E2 General competence requirements 18 E3 Certification of bridge strike nominees 18 E4 Expiry date of certificates for bridge strike nominees 19 E5 Register of bridge strike nominees 20 E6 Training and assessment of competence for bridge strike nominees 20 E7 Competence of trainers for bridge strike nominees 20 E8 Certification of bridge strike examiners 20 E9 Expiry date of certificates for bridge strike examiners 21 E10 Qualifications and experience of bridge strike examiners 21 E11 Assessment of competence for bridge strike examiners 21 E12 Register of bridge strike examiners 21 RAILWAY SAFETY 1

4 Railway Group Standard Page 2 of 30 Withdrawn Document Section Description Page Appendices 1 Required factors for the risk based prioritisation of bridges - Mandatory 22 2 Damage limits within which a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) is permitted to authorise the movement of trains - Mandatory 24 3 Requirements for classification of bridge strikes Mandatory 26 4 Requirements for training and assessment of competence for bridge strike nominees - Mandatory 27 5 Recommended factors for local operations instructions - Advisory 29 References 30 2 RAILWAY SAFETY

5 Railway Group Standard Page 3 of 30 A1 Issue record Part A Issue Date Comments One June 1995 Original Document One B December 1995 Emergency Issue Two January 1996 Supersedes Issue One and Issue One B Three August 2001 Supersedes Issue Two Four October 2002 Supersedes Issue Three The text of this document has been subject to extensive re-writing and reordering and therefore no amendment bars have been inserted. This document will be updated when necessary by distribution of a complete replacement. A2 Implementation of this document The publication date of this document is 5 October This document comes into force on 7 December The dates by which compliance with the requirements of this document is to be achieved are set out in Part B2. Where those dates are later than the date on which this document comes into force, this is to give Railway Group members additional time to plan and commence implementation so as to achieve full compliance by the dates set out in Part B2. This document supersedes the following Railway Group Standards, either in whole or in part as indicated: Railway Group Standard Issue No. Title Three Bridge Strikes Managing the Risk GO/RT3000, Section V - Rule Book, Broken Rails and Bridge Strikes RGS sections superseded by this document All X.2.1, X.2.2, X.2.3, X.2.4.1, X2.4.2, X2.6 Date(s) as of which sections are superseded 7 December December 2002 issue three is withdrawn with effect from 7 December GO/RT3000 Section V is withdrawn with effect from 7 December The parts of GO/RT3000 Section V not transferred to this document have been transferred to GC/RT5022 (Rails and Rail Joints); GO/RT3062 series (Regulations for Train Signalling); and GO/RT3000 Section H. A3 Scope of Railway Group Standards The overall scope of Railway Group Standards is set out in Appendix 1 of GA/RT6001. The specific scope of this document is set out in Part B2. RAILWAY SAFETY 3

6 Railway Group Standard Page 4 of 30 Withdrawn Document A4 Responsibilities Railway Group Standards are mandatory on all members of the Railway Group* and apply to all relevant activities that fall into the scope of each individual s Railway Safety Case. If any of those activities are performed by a contractor, the contractor s obligation in respect of Railway Group Standards is determined by the terms of the contract between the respective parties. Where a contractor is a duty holder of a Railway Safety Case then Railway Group Standards apply directly to the activities described in the Safety Case. * The Railway Group comprises Railtrack PLC, Railway Safety, and the train and station operators who hold railway safety cases for operation on or related to infrastructure controlled by Railtrack PLC. Railtrack PLC is known as Railtrack. A5 Health and safety responsibilities A6 Technical content In issuing this document, Railway Safety makes no warranties, express or implied, that compliance with all or any documents published by Railway Safety is sufficient on its own to ensure safe systems of work or operation. Each user is reminded of its own responsibilities to ensure health and safety at work and its individual duties under health and safety legislation. The technical content of this document has been approved by: Jon Taylor, Principal Track & Structures Engineer, Railway Safety. Enquiries should be directed to Railway Safety Tel: A7 Supply Controlled and uncontrolled copies of this document may be obtained from the Industry Safety Liaison Dept, Railway Safety, Evergreen House, 160 Euston Road, London NW1 2DX. 4 RAILWAY SAFETY

7 Railway Group Standard Page 5 of 30 B1 Purpose B2 Application of this document Part B This document mandates requirements for the management of the risks to the operational railway from road vehicles or waterborne vessels striking bridges. B2.1 To whom the requirements apply This document contains requirements that are applicable to duty holders of the infrastructure controller category of Railway Safety Case. B2.2 Compliance requirements This document specifically applies to: a) all underline bridges spanning over roads or under which vehicular traffic may reasonably be expected to pass b) all underline bridges spanning navigable waterways (except waterways navigable only by small pleasure craft) c) all overline bridges carrying roads or which may reasonably be expected to carry vehicular traffic. This document applies to both permanent and temporary bridges (or temporary supports to bridges) in the categories listed above. Specific requirements for structures owned by outside parties are set out in section C5. All requirements in this document shall be complied with by 7 December 2002, with the exceptions set out below. Partial compliance with section C1.1 (Identification and listing of bridges likely to be subject to bridge strikes), taking into account the history of bridge strikes only, is required by 7 December Full compliance with section C1.1, taking into account the other factors listed in section C1.1 is required by April Compliance with section C1.2 (Prioritisation of bridges likely to be subject to bridge strikes) is required by April Compliance with section C1.4 (Identification of bridges where particular control measures apply) is required by April Compliance with section C2.1 (Measures to reduce the risk at individual bridges) is required by April Compliance with section C3 (Provision of identification plates) is required by April Compliance with section C5.2 (Requirements for existing bridges owned by outside parties) is required by April Compliance with section E4.2 (Withdrawal of certification with until withdrawn expiry date) is required by April Compliance with section E5 (Register of bridge strike nominees) is required by April 2004 Compliance with section E12 (Register of bridge strike examiners) is required by April 2004 RAILWAY SAFETY 5

8 Railway Group Standard Page 6 of 30 Withdrawn Document B2.3 General compliance requirements Until the compliance dates, or the date by which compliance is achieved (if earlier), the applicable requirements of the predecessor documents shall continue to be met (see Part A for details). After the compliance dates, or after the date by which compliance is achieved (if earlier), Railway Group members shall not deviate from the requirements set out in this document. Where it is considered not practicable, or not reasonably practicable, to comply with the requirements set out in this document, authorisation not to comply shall be sought in accordance with GA/RT6001, GA/RT6004 or GA/RT6006. B2.4 Exclusions from the application of this document This document does not apply to managing the risk of bridge strikes by rail vehicles or their loads or by rail mounted plant. Requirements relevant to managing the risk of bridge strikes by rail vehicles and rail mounted plant are set out in other Railway Group Standards. Structures whose prime purpose is to carry services (utilities) over an obstruction or gap are defined as bridges (see section B3), but are excluded from the application of this document. B2.5 Related requirements in other documents General requirements for managing the structural integrity of structures, including bridges, so that they do not present an unacceptable risk to safety as a result of their condition, use or location are set out in GC/RT5100. General requirements for the design of bridges and other structures are set out in GC/RT5110 (see section C4). Requirements for the production of local operations instructions are set out in GE/RT8004 (see section D8). Requirements for the reporting of safety related information are set out in GE/RT8047 (see section D10). Requirements for managing the competence and fitness of persons required to undertake safety critical work, as defined in the Railways (Safety Critical Work) Regulations 1994, are set out in GO/RT3260 (see section E1) B2.6 Supporting documents GC/RC5510 sets out recommendations for the protection of bridges carrying rail traffic from bridge strikes. B3 Definitions Bridge A structure of one or more spans whose prime purpose is to carry traffic or services over an obstruction or gap, but excludes culverts. A culvert is defined in GC/RT5100. Bridge strike An incident in which a road vehicle or its load, or a waterborne vessel or its load, impacts with the fabric of a bridge. Bridge strike examiner A person who has been certificated as competent in accordance with this document to authorise the movement of trains up to permissible speed (or enhanced permissible speed where applicable) over or under bridges following a bridge strike. 6 RAILWAY SAFETY

9 Railway Group Standard Page 7 of 30 Bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) A person who has been certificated as competent in accordance with this document to authorise the movement of trains at 5 mph at underline bridges and 20 mph at overline bridges when the damage to a bridge following a bridge strike is within the limits set out in Appendix 2. Bridge strike nominee (Grade 2) A person who has been certificated as competent in accordance with this document to authorise the movement of trains without a speed restriction being imposed (other than existing speeds restrictions imposed for other reasons), over or under specified bridges following a bridge strike, in accordance with documented arrangements issued by the infrastructure controller. Documented arrangements The conditions applicable and the procedures to be followed by a Bridge Strike Nominee Grade 2 authorising trains to pass over or under a bridge without a speed restriction being imposed (other than existing speeds restrictions imposed for other reasons), following a bridge strike. Late reported bridge strike A bridge strike where the first report is received by the infrastructure controller after rail traffic has passed safely on each line over or under the bridge since the bridge strike. Local operations instruction An instruction issued by the infrastructure controller in accordance with GE/RT8004 to specify the safe method of working to be employed at a named location or between named locations. Permissible speed (or enhanced permissible speed where applicable) The maximum speed at which trains are permitted to travel over a section of track published in the Sectional Appendix. Outside party Any person or organisation other than a Railway Group Member. An outside party also includes a Railway Group member acting outside the scope of its Railway Safety Case. Overline bridge (road over rail) A bridge carrying non-rail vehicular traffic over one or more operational railway tracks. Underline bridge (rail over road/water) A bridge carrying one or more operational railway tracks. B4 Principles The requirements set out in this document are based on the following principles: a) The risks to the operational railway from bridge strikes are to be reduced as far as is reasonably practicable by assessing the safety risks at each bridge and implementing appropriate mitigating measures (see Part C). b) The risks to persons (railway passengers, staff and the public) following a bridge strike are to be minimised by taking appropriate action including prohibiting the passage of rail traffic or restricting the speed of rail traffic over or under the bridge (see Part D). c) People responsible for taking appropriate action following a bridge strike are to be competent (see Part E). RAILWAY SAFETY 7

10 Railway Group Standard Page 8 of 30 C1 Identification, listing and prioritisation of bridges subject to bridge strikes Withdrawn Document Part C Reducing the risk from bridge strikes C1.1 Identification and listing of bridges likely to be subject to bridge strikes The infrastructure controller shall identify and list in a register (but not necessarily in a single register) all bridges likely to be subject to bridge strikes, taking into account: a) the nature of the non-rail traffic b) the headroom (where applicable) c) the alignment and width of the road or navigable waterway d) the history of bridge strikes at the location. GC/RT5100 sets out other general requirements for listing bridges. There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2. C1.2 Prioritisation of bridges likely to be subject to bridge strikes The infrastructure controller shall undertake a risk-based prioritisation of the bridges listed in the register, taking into account the factors set out in Appendix 1. There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2. C1.3 Review of prioritisation The infrastructure controller shall review the prioritisation of a bridge in the register: a) whenever the infrastructure controller becomes aware of a change in circumstances at a bridge that is likely to have significantly affected the risk arising from bridge strikes (including alterations to, and/or reconstruction of the bridge) b) following a detailed examination of the bridge as required by GC/RT5100 c) as part of the evaluation of structural safety of the bridge required by GC/RT5100 after significant damage from a bridge strike (generally following a bridge strike which is classified as serious or potentially serious see section D10.1 and Appendix 3). Following each review, the register shall be amended, where necessary, to reflect the changed prioritisation. C1.4 Identification of bridges where particular control measures apply The infrastructure controller shall identify in the register: a) all bridges for which a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2) is authorised to act (see section D6) b) all underline bridges over which all normal rail traffic is permitted to pass without prior inspection following a bridge strike in accordance with a local operations instruction (see section D8) 8 RAILWAY SAFETY

11 Railway Group Standard Page 9 of 30 c) all underline bridges over which specified rail traffic is permitted to pass without a prior inspection following a bridge strike in accordance with a local operations instruction (see section D8) d) any other bridge to which a local operations instruction applies (see section D8). There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2. C2 Measures to reduce the risk from bridge strikes C2.1 Measures to reduce the risk from bridge strikes at individual bridges The infrastructure controller shall have a procedure in place requiring measures to be implemented to reduce the risk from bridge strikes at bridges listed in the register compiled in accordance with section C1.1. In determining the measures to reduce the risk from bridge strikes, the procedure shall require the following to be taken into account: a) the factors taken into account in the risk based prioritisation of the bridge (in accordance with section C1.2) b) site-specific circumstances. The measures to be considered shall include, but not be limited to, the following: i) provision of structural protection (for example, collision protection beams - BD65/97, contained within the Highways Agency s Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, sets out design criteria for collision protection beams) ii) provision of, or improvement to, signing and warning markings iii) improvement of visibility of existing signing or warning markings iv) provision of, or improvement to, markings or physical measures to guide to road traffic v) removal of features (for example, advertising hoardings) which are likely to distract drivers attention from perceiving the presence of a bridge or of its signing vi) measures to reduce speed of road traffic (traffic calming measures) vii) improvement to headroom viii) provision of automatic sensing and/or warning devices ix) painting the outside of underline bridges to make them more conspicuous x) provision of traffic lights at bridges to limit traffic to a single lane over or under the bridge xi) increasing the strength or extent of the parapets or safety barriers at an overline bridge. The relative importance of each of these measures shall be considered on a siteby-site basis. RAILWAY SAFETY 9

12 Railway Group Standard Page 10 of 30 Withdrawn Document There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2 C2.2 Implementation of measures to reduce the risk from bridge strikes not within the control of infrastructure controller When the implementation of risk reduction measures required by section C2.1 is not within the control of the infrastructure controller, the infrastructure controller shall: a) appraise the relevant authority of the risks to the safe operation of the railway due to bridge strikes and provide advice as to the appropriate measures that are considered necessary to reduce the risk to the safe operation of the railway at the particular location b) endeavour to obtain the agreement of the relevant authority to implement appropriate measures c) where agreement to the implementation of appropriate measures is not obtained, implement those measures that are within the control of the infrastructure controller and record details of those measures that are not implemented by the relevant authority. C2.3 Increasing general awareness of the risk of bridge strikes The infrastructure controller shall consider measures aimed at reducing the likelihood of bridge strikes occurring by increasing general awareness of the risk from bridge strikes, including, for example: a) promoting the publication of maps/atlases highlighting low headroom bridges b) publication of other documents (for example, leaflets) highlighting the risks from bridge strikes c) liaison with vehicle operators, highway authorities and outside party bridge owners to highlight the risks from bridge strikes d) promoting technical developments and best practice. C2.4 Records of measures considered and implemented The infrastructure controller shall keep records of: a) measures that have been considered to reduce the risk from bridge strikes b) measures that have been implemented to reduce the risk from bridge strikes. C3 Provision of identification plates The infrastructure controller shall prepare and implement a programme to provide identification plates for the use of the public at bridges that are at risk from bridge strikes, prioritised in accordance with section C1.2. Specific requirements for bridges owned by outside parties are set out in section C5.2 c). The information shown on the plates shall: a) uniquely identify the bridge b) show a telephone number for the relevant signalling control centre or railway operations control office giving 24-hour availability, for use by the public, drivers or others in reporting a bridge strike. 10 RAILWAY SAFETY

13 Railway Group Standard Page 11 of 30 Identification plates shall be positioned so as to be clearly visible to users of the relevant road or waterway. The infrastructure controller shall ensure that the identification plates are adequately maintained. Section D8.4 sets out additional requirements for provision of identification plates where local operations instructions relating to a bridge are issued. GC/RT5100 sets out general requirements for identification of bridges, both for record purposes and for identification on site. There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2 C4 Design of new structures and structures subject to alteration GC/RT5110 sets out general requirements for the design of bridges and other structures, including requirements in respect of: a) the safe movement of vehicles (including, for example, adequate headroom) b) adequate protection to vehicles using or affected by the structure (including, for example, adequate parapets) c) adequate resistance to the likely effects of external influences (including, for example, adequate restraint at bearings) d) robustness against damage by accidental effects. C5 Bridges owned by outside parties C5.1 General requirements for bridges owned by outside parties GC/RT5100 sets out the general requirements for the safe management of structures owned by outside parties. C5.2 Requirements for existing bridges owned by outside parties For existing bridges owned by outside parties that are likely to be subject to bridge strikes, the infrastructure controller shall have procedures in place that meet the requirements of sections C1.1 and C1.4 a). The infrastructure controller shall also have procedures in place to: a) appraise the relevant outside party bridge owner of the risks to the safe operation of the railway due to bridge strikes with respect to each outside party bridge b) provide advice as to the measures that should be considered by the outside party bridge owner to reduce the risk to the safe operation of the railway by reference to section C2.1 c) liaise with the outside party bridge owner and endeavour to obtain their agreement to implement measures to reduce the risk to the safe operation of the railway, including provision of identification plates in accordance with section C3 d) implement alternative measures within the control of the infrastructure controller, when the outside party bridge owner s agreement to implement measures to reduce the risk to the safe operation of the railway is not obtained RAILWAY SAFETY 11

14 Railway Group Standard Page 12 of 30 Withdrawn Document e) record details of those measures that are not implemented by the outside party bridge owner. There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2. C5.3 Requirements for proposed new bridges owned by outside parties For proposed new structures to be owned by outside parties, the infrastructure controller shall have procedures in place to ensure that the requirements of GC/RT5110 are applied so far as is reasonable (see section C4). Where the requirements are not met, this shall be recorded by the infrastructure controller, together with the reasons why the requirements have not been met. 12 RAILWAY SAFETY

15 Railway Group Standard Page 13 of 30 D1 Procedures in the event of a reported bridge strike Part D Managing bridge strike incidents The infrastructure controller shall have procedures in place to ensure that, in the event of a reported bridge strike the subsequent risks to persons and property are minimised. The procedures shall meet the requirements of sections D2 to D11. D2 Action to be taken when a bridge strike is reported When a bridge strike is reported, movement of trains over or under the bridge shall not be permitted until the bridge has been examined by a bridge strike examiner to make sure it remains safe for trains to pass. If a bridge strike examiner is not immediately available, it is permissible for a bridge, other than a bridge over a navigable waterway, to be examined by a bridge strike nominee. Conditions under which bridge strike examiners are permitted to act are set out in section D4. Conditions under which bridge strike nominees (Grade 1) are permitted to act are set out in section D5. Conditions under which bridge strike nominees (Grade 2) are permitted to act are set out in section D6. Section D8 permits actions other than those set out above to be taken when a bridge strike is reported, provided these are set out in local operations instructions. D3 Late reported bridge strikes D4 Conditions under which bridge strike examiners are permitted to act Following a late reported bridge strike, action in accordance with section D2 shall be taken unless local operations instructions have been issued, setting out the alternative actions to be taken (see section D8). It is permissible for a bridge strike examiner to determine the speed, up to the permissible speed (or enhanced permissible speed where applicable), at which the movement of trains can be resumed. In determining the speed, the bridge strike examiner shall take into consideration the damage to the bridge caused by the bridge strike. It is permissible for the bridge strike examiner to authorise the movement of trains on the basis of pictures transmitted from a camera operated by a bridge strike nominee, provided the infrastructure controller has demonstrated that, in permitting the movement of trains to be authorised on the basis of the transmitted pictures, the incremental risk is negligible. Requirements for qualifications, experience and certification of bridge strike examiners are set out in Part E. RAILWAY SAFETY 13

16 Railway Group Standard Page 14 of 30 Withdrawn Document D5 Conditions under which bridge strike nominees (Grade 1) are permitted to act It is permissible for a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) to authorise the movement of trains at 5 mph at underline bridges and 20 mph at overline bridges provided the damage to a bridge following a bridge strike is within the limits set out in Appendix 2. Requirements for training, competence and certification of bridge strike nominees (Grade 1) are set out in Part E. D6 Conditions under which bridge strike nominees (Grade 2) are permitted to act It is permissible for a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2) to authorise the movement of trains, without a speed restriction being imposed (other than existing speeds restrictions imposed for other reasons), over or under specified bridges in accordance with documented arrangements issued by the infrastructure controller. At other bridges where documented arrangements have not been issued, the requirements applicable to a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) apply to a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2). Documented arrangements permitting a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2) to authorise the movement of trains over or under specified bridges without a speed restriction shall only be issued if the following conditions are met: a) The infrastructure controller has identified and recorded the specific bridges, either by reference to individual bridges or by reference to a geographical area (including, where appropriate, any excluded bridges). b) The infrastructure controller has determined and recorded the damage criteria that apply to the specific bridges, either by reference to individual bridges or by reference to generic types (including, where appropriate, any excluded bridges). c) The specific arrangements for each bridge (taking into account the damage criteria permitted by (b) of this section) have been documented for use on site. Requirements for training, competence and certification of bridge strike nominees (Grade 2) are set out in Part E. D7 Actions of bridge strike nominees after allowing trains to pass Until a bridge strike examiner authorises otherwise, the bridge strike nominee who is authorising trains to pass following a reported bridge strike shall: a) remain on site b) keep the bridge under observation to check that there is no worsening in the condition of the bridge. If the condition of the bridge worsens, the bridge strike nominee shall instruct the signaller to stop the movement of trains until a bridge strike examiner has examined the bridge. 14 RAILWAY SAFETY

17 Railway Group Standard Page 15 of 30 D8 Local operations instructions for use by signallers D8.1 Issuing local operations instructions It is permissible for the infrastructure controller to formulate and issue local operations instructions for use by signallers for managing the risk from bridge strikes. Local operations instructions shall relate to specific bridges, either by reference to individual bridges or by reference to a geographical area (including, where appropriate, any excluded bridges) and shall lay down criteria for rail traffic to be permitted to pass over or under the specified bridges following a bridge strike. In the case of late reported bridge strikes, it is permissible for the criteria for rail traffic to be permitted to pass over or under the specified bridges to vary depending on the number and type of trains that have passed over the bridge since the reported time of the bridge strike. The infrastructure controller shall demonstrate that, in applying such varying criteria, the incremental risk is negligible. D8.2 Examples of local operations instructions Examples of where it is permissible for a local operations instruction to be issued are: a) where an underline bridge has been assessed by the infrastructure controller as having sufficient robustness and strength for normal rail traffic to continue to pass over the bridge safely at a specified speed following any bridge strike and where it is intended to allow rail traffic to pass over the bridge without a prior examination of the bridge following a bridge strike b) where an underline bridge has been assessed by the infrastructure controller as having sufficient robustness and strength for specified classes of rail traffic, limited by their weight, to continue to pass over the bridge safely at a specified speed following a late reported underline bridge strike and where it is intended to allow the specified rail traffic to pass over the bridge without a prior examination of the bridge following a bridge strike c) where the parapets of an overline bridge have been assessed by the infrastructure controller as having sufficient robustness and strength for road traffic usually using the bridge to not cause significant damage, and where it is intended to allow rail traffic to pass under the bridge without a prior examination of the bridge following a bridge strike. D8.3 Content of local operations instruction Local operations instructions shall: a) accurately identify the bridges (and, where applicable, the spans of the bridges) to which the local operations instruction applies b) clearly identify the lines that are permitted to remain open c) identify the action to be taken by the signaller before trains are authorised to pass over or under the bridge d) clearly identify the type and speed of rail traffic permitted to pass under or over the bridge following the bridge strike. RAILWAY SAFETY 15

18 Railway Group Standard Page 16 of 30 Withdrawn Document D8.4 Criteria for issuing local operations instructions Local operations instructions shall be issued only if all the following conditions are satisfied: a) The infrastructure controller has demonstrated that, in applying such local operations instructions, the incremental risk is negligible. The recommended factors that should be considered are listed in Appendix 5. b) The infrastructure controller has recorded the justification for issuing the local operations instruction. c) One or more identification plates in accordance with section C3 are in place on the bridge. Where the local operations instructions relate only to late reported bridge strikes, it is permissible to issue the instructions without identification plates being in place. The infrastructure controller shall also define the arrangements for the subsequent examination of the bridge following a bridge strike including the timescales for such an examination. D8.5 Review of local operations instructions Local operations instructions shall be reviewed and confirmed, or revised if necessary, by the infrastructure controller: a) after a detailed examination of the bridge that identifies any significant change in condition, loading or environment that affects the risk from bridge strikes b) following a bridge strike which is classified as serious or potentially serious (see section D10.1 and Appendix 3) c) when the infrastructure controller becomes aware of any changes to the criteria upon which the local operations instructions were issued, and where such changes could reasonably be foreseen to increase the risk to the safety of train operations. D9 Additional structural examination following a reported bridge strike Following all reported bridge strike incidents, the infrastructure controller shall arrange an additional structural examination of the bridge by a competent person (for example a bridge strike examiner) to: a) ensure the bridge strike nominee s decision is correct, when movement of trains over the bridge has been authorised by a bridge strike nominee b) report on repairs or other actions required. The response time for the additional structural examination shall be commensurate with the risk to the safety of train operations. D10 Classification, recording and reporting of bridge strikes D10.1 Classification of bridge strikes The infrastructure controller shall classify every reported bridge strike as serious, potentially serious or not serious, in accordance with the criteria set out in Appendix RAILWAY SAFETY

19 Railway Group Standard Page 17 of 30 D10.2 Reporting of bridge strikes GE/RT8047 sets out requirements for the reporting of safety related information, including bridge strikes. D11 Advice to British Transport Police Where possible, full details of the vehicle or vessel concerned in a bridge strike incident shall be obtained and the information passed to the British Transport Police. RAILWAY SAFETY 17

20 Railway Group Standard Page 18 of 30 E1 Application of Railways (Safety Critical Work) Regulations E2 General competence requirements Withdrawn Document Part E Training, competence and certification GO/RT3260 states that the assessment of a bridge (for example by a bridge strike nominee or a bridge strike examiner) following a bridge strike is considered safety critical under the Railways (Safety Critical Work) Regulations and defines requirements for systems to manage the competence and fitness of persons required to undertake such work. The infrastructure controller shall have in place procedures that ensure that only competent persons: a) undertake the risk-based prioritisation of bridges in accordance with section C1 b) consider measures to reduce the risk from bridge strikes in accordance with section C2 c) formulate and issue local operations instructions in accordance with section D8 d) establish, in accordance with section D6, the bridges where a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2) is authorised to act e) carry out training and assessment of competence and issue certificates in accordance with this part of the standard (Part E). E3 Certification of bridge strike nominees E3.1 Certification of bridge strike nominees (Grade 1) The infrastructure controller shall have procedures in place to ensure that all persons acting as a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) are issued with a certificate of authority before acting in this capacity. In the case of initial certification, such a certificate shall only be issued if the person has attended and successfully completed a suitable training course (see section E6) and this fact is acknowledged through a statement signed by the trainer. In the case of re-certification, such a certificate shall only be issued if the person is currently in possession of a valid certificate to act as a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) and has successfully attended a refresher course or has been reassessed as competent and this fact is acknowledged through a statement signed by the trainer or assessor as appropriate. In all cases, a person nominated by the infrastructure controller shall sign a statement to signify that they consider that the person is competent to act as bridge strike nominee (Grade 1). Records that demonstrate that these conditions have been satisfied shall be retained for as long as the certificate remains valid. The certificate shall show the expiry date of the authority to act in the capacity of a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1). The certificate shall bear an identification number. 18 RAILWAY SAFETY

21 Railway Group Standard Page 19 of 30 E3.2 Certification of bridge strike nominee (Grade 2) The infrastructure controller shall have procedures in place to ensure that all persons, acting as bridge strike nominee (Grade 2), are issued with a certificate of authority before acting in this capacity. In the case of initial certification, such a certificate shall only be issued if: a) The person is in possession of a valid certificate to act as bridge strike nominee (Grade 1), and has been in possession of the certificate for at least two years. b) The person has acted as a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) and i) usually, has managed at least four incidents, all satisfactorily ii) exceptionally, has managed at least one incident satisfactorily and the person s employer has signed a statement setting out the reasons why the person is considered sufficiently experienced as a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) to be upgraded to a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2). c) The person has attended and successfully completed a suitable training course (see section E6) and this fact is acknowledged through a signed statement of the trainer. In the case of re-certification as a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2), such a certificate shall only be issued if the person is currently in possession of a valid certificate to act as a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2) and has attended a refresher course or has been reassessed as competent and this fact is acknowledged through a statement signed by the trainer or assessor as appropriate. In all cases, a person nominated by the infrastructure controller shall sign a statement to signify that they consider that the person is competent to act as bridge strike nominee (Grade 2). Records that demonstrate that these conditions have been satisfied shall be retained for as long as the certificate remains valid. The certificate shall show the expiry date of the authority to act in the capacity of a bridge strike nominee (Grade 2). The certificate shall bear an identification number. Requirements for the documented arrangements under which bridge strike nominees (Grade 2) are permitted to act are set out in section D6. E4 Expiry date of certificates for bridge strike nominees E4.1 Requirements for expiry dates For initial certification, the expiry date shall not be more than two years after the date on which the person completed the training course. For re-certification the date shall not be more than two years after the expiry date previously recorded on the certificate. E4.2 Withdrawal of certification with until withdrawn expiry date The infrastructure controller shall have procedures in place to ensure that all existing certificates with an expiry date shown as until withdrawn are withdrawn. There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2. RAILWAY SAFETY 19

22 Railway Group Standard Page 20 of 30 Withdrawn Document E5 Register of bridge strike nominees The infrastructure controller shall compile and maintain a register (but not necessarily a single register) that includes names of all persons who hold valid certificates to act as bridge strike nominee (Grades 1 and 2). The register shall also include the expiry date of each person s certificate. There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2. E6 Training and assessment of competence for bridge strike nominees E7 Competence of trainers for bridge strike nominees The infrastructure controller shall ensure that the method and components of the training and assessment of competence of bridge strike nominees (Grades 1 and 2) accords with the requirements for such training and assessment of competence in Appendix 4. The infrastructure controller shall have procedures in place to ensure that persons responsible for training and/or assessing of competence of bridge strike nominees (Grade 1) and/or bridge strike nominees (Grade 2): a) are competent trainers and/or assessors b) hold an appropriate nationally recognised qualification as a trainer and/or as an assessor c) have expertise relevant to managing the risks from bridge strikes to the satisfaction of the infrastructure controller. E8 Certification of bridge strike examiners The infrastructure controller shall have procedures in place to ensure that all persons acting as bridge strike examiner are issued with a valid certificate. Such a certificate shall be valid only if all the following conditions are satisfied: a) The person is qualified or experienced in accordance with at least one of the criteria set out in section E10. b) A person nominated by the infrastructure controller has signed a statement to signify that they consider that the person is competent to act as bridge strike examiner. The certificate shall show the expiry date of the authority to act in the capacity of bridge strike examiner. The certificate shall bear an identification number. 20 RAILWAY SAFETY

23 Railway Group Standard Page 21 of 30 E9 Expiry date of certificates for bridge strike examiners E10 Qualifications and experience of bridge strike examiners The expiry date shall be as determined by the infrastructure controller for both initial certification and for any subsequent re-certification but shall not be more than five years after the person has been authorised or re-authorised to act in the capacity of a bridge strike examiner. Persons acting as bridge strike examiner shall be qualified or experienced in accordance with at least one of the following criteria to the satisfaction of the infrastructure controller: a) the person is a chartered or incorporated civil or structural engineer with experience in the management and maintenance of railway bridges b) the person is qualified and experienced to examine and report upon the condition of structures in accordance with GC/RT5100 c) the person can demonstrate at least five years practical experience in bridge maintenance, examination or assessment. E11 Assessment of competence for bridge strike examiners The assessment of competence of a bridge strike examiner shall be either of the following: a) the performance of the candidate in an examination b) work place assessment. E12 Register of bridge strike examiners The infrastructure controller shall compile and maintain a register (but not necessarily a single register) that includes the names and other relevant details of all persons who hold valid certificates to act as bridge strike examiner. The register shall also include the expiry date of each person s certificate. There are special compliance requirements associated with this section - see section B2.2. RAILWAY SAFETY 21

24 Railway Group Standard Page 22 of Underline bridges spanning over roads Withdrawn Document Appendix 1 - Mandatory Required factors for the risk based prioritisation of bridges The factors to be taken into account in the risk based prioritisation of underline bridges spanning over a road (or bridges under which vehicular traffic may reasonably be expected to pass) in accordance with section C1.2 shall include, but not be limited to, the following: a) type, density and speed of rail traffic b) headroom c) type, density and speed of road traffic d) type of construction of bridge (particularly noting the presence of any vulnerable bridge support columns) e) history of bridge strikes f) existing measures to reduce the risk (for example, signing and markings at the bridge and on its approaches) g) visibility of signs at the bridge and on all approach routes h) condition of the underline bridge i) assessed live load capacity of the underline bridge j) track construction including the presence of longitudinal timbers or track directly fastened to the deck. 1.2 Underline bridges spanning over navigable waterways The factors to be taken into account in the risk-based prioritisation of underline bridges spanning over a navigable waterway in accordance with section C1.2 shall include, but not be limited to, the following: a) type, density and speed of rail traffic b) headroom (air draught) (taking into account changes in water level) c) type, density and speed of waterborne traffic (taking into account water currents and tides) d) type of construction of bridge (particularly noting the presence of any vulnerable bridge support columns) e) history of bridge strikes f) existing measures to reduce the risk (for example, signing and markings at the bridge and on its approaches, protection to bridge piers) g) visibility of signs at the bridge and on its approaches h) condition of the underline bridge i) assessed live load capacity of the underline bridge 22 RAILWAY SAFETY

25 Railway Group Standard Page 23 of 30 j) track construction including the presence of longitudinal timbers or track directly fastened to the deck. 1.3 Overline bridges carrying roads The factors to be taken into account in the risk-based prioritisation of overline bridges carrying a road (or bridges which may reasonably be expected to carry vehicular traffic) in accordance with section C1.2 shall include, but not be limited to, the following: a) type, density and speed of rail traffic b) road alignment and width c) type, density and speed of road traffic (including level of abnormal road traffic) d) type of construction and structural resistance (containment level) of parapet or safety fence or barrier (including those on approach routes) e) history of bridge strikes f) existing measures to reduce the risk (for example, signing and markings at the bridge and on its approaches) g) visibility of signs at the bridge and on all approach routes h) condition of parapet or safety barrier. RAILWAY SAFETY 23

26 Railway Group Standard Page 24 of Underline bridge (rail over road) 2.2 Overline bridge (road over rail) Appendix 2 - Mandatory Damage limits within which a bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) is permitted to authorise the movement of trains Type of bridge structure (including walls and columns) All bridges In addition: Metal bridge Metal Column Masonry Arch Brick Arch Concrete bridge Withdrawn Document Damage limits The vertical and horizontal alignment of the track appears normal. There is no loss of ballast under any sleeper and there is no gap between sleeper ends and the ballast. The railhead is undamaged. The bridge is not deformed or displaced and there is no other damage (except for paint damage). If there is any reason to suspect that a metal column has been struck, the bridge strike nominee (Grade 1) is not permitted to authorise the movement of trains. Any displaced material: a) is not more that 150 mm in depth, and b) does not cover a total area of more than one square metre. Any displaced material: a) is not more that one brick in depth, and b) does not cover a total area of more than one square metre. If exposed by the damage, the internal reinforcing bars are not cut or damaged. Table 1: Underline bridge damage limits Damage limits: a) the part of the parapet wall which is immediately over the track has not been cracked or displaced, either horizontally or vertically b) any debris from a damaged parapet or wall that has already fallen or could fall, will only fall into the embankment clear of the track and there is no risk of any debris falling on or near the line. 2.3 Bridges with several independent structures Where the bridge consists of several independent structures across the width of the railway, each independent structure shall be considered as a separate bridge for the purposes of these instructions. It is permissible for normal working to be resumed immediately on the line(s) which pass over or under the unaffected independent structure(s) if it is clear 24 RAILWAY SAFETY