Safety first on the rail network

The dangers associated with working with the rail lines open to traffic can not be underestimated and should only be embarked upon in accordance with the principles of prevention included in the Health and Safety at work Act 1974 (“HSWA”) and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (“MHSWR”).

Adjacent Line Open

To minimise the impact on operational rail lines, it has become common practice to carry out some construction, maintenance and renewal activities whilst leaving adjacent lines open (ALO) to rail traffic. This is known as “working ALO”.

Regulation

The Adjacent Line Open Working Group was formed to identify, on behalf of the industry, safe systems of work where any rail network lines open to traffic could foreseeably be fouled by any plant or loads associated with them (“ALO working”).

However, when required a documented risk assessment must be undertaken and appropriate controls have to be put in place. This document defines the process to be implemented when evaluating works taking place next to Network Rail Managed Infrastructure and the specific controls that are needed.

What is included?

The guide covers work by on track plant (OTP), civil construction plant and On Track Machines (OTM) and is also used when work undertaken by railway organisations is taking place outside the railway infrastructure boundary but where there is the potential to foul lines open to traffic.

Why is it needed?

Adjacent Line Open (ALO) operations are increasingly important for reducing disruptive access on busy areas of the rail network and avoiding the need for disruptive all line blockages, by allowing adjacent live line working.

Approved products

With RISQS approval (Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme) all of our security block systems are approved and come with integral lifting options that can be painted in your chosen colours, safety notices, Ministry of Transport approved chevrons, etc.

The concrete blocks line the track works securing the working area from the live lines and provides a much more cost-effective alternative to hiring-in barriers.

Customer Service

Elite by name, elite by nature – based in the heart of the West Midlands, the team prides itself on being agile and fulfilling the needs of customers with quick project pricing and quality products delivered from stock within 48 hours of ordering.

To find out more please call our team on 01952 588885 or email sales@eliteprecast.co.uk

For more information on Safety first on the rail network talk to Elite Precast Concrete Ltd