Glossary Flashcards
Absolute Signal
A fixed signal that must not be passed at STOP without the authority of the Signaller
Absolute Signal Blocking (ASB)
A method used by Qualified Workers to carry out work on track using controlled absolute signals set and kept at STOP
Access
A designated safe way into, along, across or out of a Rail Corridor
Access Provider
An organisation that provides and manages a rail Network and safe method of entry to that Network for Access Users
Active control (level crossing equipment)
A road or pedestrian level crossing where warning equipment warns road users and pedestrians about approaching rail traffic by devices such as flashing lights or barriers
Adjacent
Next to, near to, close to
Adjoining
In contact with, connected to
Advice
To give written or electronic notice, usually in advance, of planned activities
Affected signal
A signal not available for normal use
Airbrake
A braking system activated by change in air pressure
Aspect
The displayed pattern or position of lights or arms used to give a signal indication
Attended Location
A signalling location or block location that is controlled by a Qualified Worker either on-site or at a remote location
Audible Warming Device (AWD)
A device, such as a whistle, siren, horn or hooter, used to give warning
Automatic Signal
A signal that is normally controlled exclusively by the operation of track-circuits
Automatic Train Protection (ATP)
A safety system fitted to trains and to the track that warns of or enforces speed limits and stopping at some limits of authority
Authorise
To give formal written, spoken or signalled authority for an action
Authority
A generic term for permission. Formal authority name
Axle counter
Equipment used in Rail Vehicle Detection Territory to detect the presence of rail vehicles by counting the number of axles entering or leaving a location. They may be used to operate signalling or other infrastructure equipment
Axle counter territory
the portions of line where axle counters are used for the Rail Vehicle Detection system of Safeworking
Balloon loop
A portion of line that allows rail traffic to change direction of travel without change to the leading end
Bank locomotive
A locomotive provided at the rear of a train to assist it up a steep grade (bank)
Basic Block Working
A form of manual block working which does not require the issue of a Condition Affecting the Network (CAN) form
Bidirectional
Allowing for signalled movements of rail traffic in either direction between yard limits
Block
A portion of line with defined limits between which only one rail traffic movement is permitted at any one time
Block Location
A defined location that separates blocks
Block Post
A temporary block location
Block trail
A train required to travel under manual block working in track-circuited territory
Block work
See manual block working
Blocking facility
a facility or device used by a Qualified Worker to prevent either the unintended issue of an Occupancy Authority, or the operation of points or signalling equipment
CAN block working
Manual block working using a Condition Affecting the Network (CAN) form to warn Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators about the working
Cancel
To withdraw permission for, or to end previously authorised activities, such as Occupancy Authorities, without completing them. (Written authorities have the word CANCELLED written diagonally across them, between two parallel lines)
Catch points
Single or double bladed points used to derail rail traffic that might enter or foul an adjacent running line
Caution handsignal
A handsignal given by a Qualified WOrker to indicate the need for rail traffic to proceed being prepared to stop. When given by an inner Handsignaller protecting a worksite, and unless advised by that Handsignaller, a maximum speed of 25km/hr applies until the rail traffic has passed the worksite limits
Certify
To classify a worker as competent. To classify infrustructure or rolling stock as fit for purpose
Clearance Handsignaller
A Handsignaller at a clearance location, who reports the clearance of rail traffic past that location
Clearance location
A location that, once clear of rail traffic, allows a following movement
Clearance point
see clearance location
Clearance post
A post, marker, light or disc to indicate the clearance point of two converging lines
Closely approaching
going towards a location at a speed such that Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators could not be expected to react in sufficient time to stop
Co-acting Signal
A signal, placed near another signal that might be temporarily obscured from a Driver or Track Vehicle Operator’s view, to provide information about the obscured signal’s Indication
Commission
To formally place into active service or use
Condition Affecting the Network (CAN)
A situation or condition that affects or has the potential to affect the safety of the Network
Consist
A listed order of the vehicles arranged to make up a complete train
Consolidated yard
An area where interlockings controlled by one signalling location have intervening permissive signals. The area is defined exclusively by a YARD LIMIT (YL) sign and an END OF YARD LIMIT (EYL) sign
Controlled absolute signal
A signal that is controlled or operated by a Signaller or a Qualified Worker. The signal must not be passed at STOP without authority
Controlled signal
A signal that is, or may be, controlled or operated by a Signaller or Qualified Worker
Converging
(Lines) meeting and joining to become one line
Convoy
a group of track vehicles not coupled by travelling closely together under a signle Occupancy Authority
Coordinating Protection officer
The Qualified Worker responsible for protection of a coordinated worksite under a Local Possession Authority (LPA). See also Protection Officer
Cross
To go past other rail traffic travelling in the opposite direction
Crossing location
May consist of single or double ended portion of line, to hold rail traffic, connected to a main line that is used to permit other rail traffic to cross or pass
Crossover
A portion of line that is used to divert rail traffic from one running line to another
Danger Zone
Everywhere within 3m horizontally from the nearest rail, and any distance above or below this 3 m, unless a safe place exists or has been created
Dangerous goods
Materials defined under the Australian Dangerous Goods Code
Dead end siding
A portion of line connected to a running line or other siding, with points at one end only
Delegate
A Qualified Worker authorised and designated to act in place of another
Demarcation fencing
Easily-seen, continuous worksite safety boundary markers
Derail device
a device intended to guide the wheels of rail traffic off rails
Direct
to give instructions
Disables
Unable to travel due to a defect or a Condition Affecting the Network (CAN)
Discrete-Channel
A system in which only the intended participants in a radio or telephone conversation can take part in the conversation
Driver
A Qualified Worker controlling the movement of rail traffic
Effective communication
The ability to successfully send, receive and understand information. The communication does not need to be continuous
Electric Vehicle Maintenance Centre (EVMC)
A designated location where maintenance work is carried out on electric traction vehicles
Electrical Infrastructure
Equipment and systems for supplying and distributing electricity for traction purposes
Electrical Representative
A person with the appropriate delegated authority and electrical engineering competence to make judgements about electrical safety
Electrical safety instructions
Instructions provided by Electrical Maintenance Representatives for work on or near electrical infrastructure
Electrical System Operator
The person responsible for managing the Network electrical system and authorising the removal and restoration of overhead supply
Emergency
Incident requiring urgent action. The incident might involve death or serious injury, health or safety effects, significant damage to property or infrastructure, significant train service disruption, or environmental impact
End-of-train marker
a device, including tail lights, fitted to the trailing end of the last vehicle of a rail traffic consist to indicate the end of the consist
Exclusive occupancy
Sole occupancy of track within defined limits
Facing point
Points with the switch blades facing approaching rail traffic
Failsafe
Designed such that failure results in a safe outcome
Fit for purpose
able to be used for the function required
Fixed signal
A signal that is located permanently near the line
Foul
In a position to obstruct rail traffic on adjacent lines
Four-foot
The area between the rails of a railway track
Fulfil
To complete the instructions on, and associated activities for an Occupancy Authority (Written authorities have the work FULFILLED written diagonally across them, between two parallel lines)
Groundframe
A small trackside interlocking device used for manual points or signal operation
Half-staff
a metal staff located at the ends of a section, and interlocked with signals’ circuits. Also known as half-pilot staff. Two half staffs can be joined to provide a pilot staff for the section
Handsignal
A signal given by hand movements, with or without flags or lights. To give a signal by hand
Handsignaller
A Qualified Worker who gives handsignals to Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators
Haul
To move rail traffic using a motive power source at the leading end
Hazard light
Amber or orange flashing light fitted to a vehicle to provide warning
Headlights
White lights fitted at the front of rail traffic to provide visibility for Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators and to improve the visibility of rail traffic
In effect
Activate, become current, in force
Incident Management Framework
A manual issued by Sydney Trains that Prescribes rules and procedures to be followed in the event of a major incident
Infrastructure
See civil infrastructure; electrical infrastructure; signalling and telecommunications infrastructure
Instruction sign
A sign, near or fixed to a signal, bearing directions for Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators
Interlocking
Interaction of equipment controlling points and /or signals to prevent conflicting movements, and to make sure the routes are set correctly
Interlocking machine
Equipment used to operate or control interlocked points and signals
Intermediate
Between two others
Intermediate siding
A siding located within a section, generally used for purposes other than crossing or passing of rail traffic
Isolated 1500V overhead wiring section
A 1500V overhead wiring section disconnected from all possible sources of 1500V supply, and made incapable of accidentally being made live
Issue
To give or send copies of authorities, warnings, notices and Network publications to affected Qualified Workers by voice, hand delivery or electronic means
Joint occupancy
Simultaneous occupancy of track within defined limits
Level Crossing
A location where the railway line and a road or pedestrian walkway cross paths on he same level
Light, battery powered tool or device
An internally powered tool or device that can be easily carried by one person and be immediately removed from the track. The tool must not have potential to distract the operator, or impede the ability of the operator to respond to the warning of approaching rail traffic
Light locomotive
One or more locomotives not attached to another vehicle
Light, non-powered hand tool
A tool that can be carried and easily removed by one person and is not powered by compressed air, gas, electricity, hydraulics, explosive charge or an internal combustion engine
Light, powered hand tool
An internally powered tool that can be carried easily by one person, without mechanical assistance
Limit of authority
If defines the location to which rail traffic may travel under a Proceed Authority or the limits of a work on track authority. The limit may be defined by a sign, a signal capable of displaying a STOP indication, or a specific kilometrage point on a line
Loading outline
The maximum height and width to which rail vehicles can be loaded for a particular line, as prescribed in the Train Operating Conditions (TOC) manual
Local control panel
An interlocking facility that may be switched to and from local control
Local Possession Authority (LPA)
An authority that closes a defined portion of line for a specified period
Location
A place in the Network with a disgnated name, identification number, signalling reference or kilometrage
Locomotive
Self-propelled, railway vehicles used for hauling other rolling stock
Lookout
A Qualified Worker responsible for keeping watch for approaching rail traffic, and for warning other workers to stand clear of the line before the rail traffic arrives
Lookout working
A safety measure used by Qualified Workers to carry out work on track without a formally issued work on track authority
Loop
See balloon loop, crossing loop, refuge loop
Low visibility
Any condition that does not allow Qualified Workers to view the distance required to work safely. Visibility restricted by fog, mist, rain, dust, snow, low light or other similar cause
Main Line
The running line normally used for running rail traffic through
Maintenance Representative
A Qualified Worker with appropriate authority to maintain the line infrustructure
Major incident
An incident assess as having a potentially major impact on the Network, human life, property of the environment
Manual Block working
A method of special working, which ensures sole occupancy by manually maintaining the block between rail traffic moovements
Marker Lights
Lights which indicate the front or rear of a train
Marshal
To arrange the order of vehicles in a train’s consist
May
Indicates permission
Motive Power unit
A rail vehicle used to provide the power to move itself or other vehicles
Must
Indicates that a statement is mandatory
Net train weight
The weight of vehicles and their load in a train consist
Network
A combination of track and other infrastructure controlled by and Access Provider
Network Access level crossing
Generally permanent level crossings provided at authorised locations for Network maintenance
Network control
The function responsible for managing rail traffic paths and issuing Occupancy Authorities
Network Controller
Qualified Workers who on a day to day basis manage the safe and effecient operation of the Network:
- for train paths, on time running possession management the Network controller is the Train Service Delivery Manager (TSDM)
- for Network incidents, special working, and the authorisation of work on track authorities the Network Controller is the Network Incident Manager
Network Incident Notice (NIN)
A notice used to record and distribute information about incidents on the Network
Network Local Appendices (NLAs)
Publications issued to prescribe special Safeworking arrangements for a location of area
Network Forms
Forms issued for use as specified in the Network Rules and Network Procedures
Network Procedures
Procedures issued for the safe conduct of work on the Network. To be read in conjunction with the Network Rules
Network Rules
Rules issued to mandate the requirements for safe operation in the Network
Normal Speed
A speed that does not exceed the speed limit currently in effect for the location and type of rail traffic
Obstruct
To make a line unsafe for the passage of rail traffic
Occupancy
Presence of rail traffic or track workers on track
Open-channel
A system that allows all radio users to take part in all conversations
Operator
An organisation that manages, operates or maintains rail traffic on the Network
Operator’s Representative
A person authorised by an Operator to act on their behalf
Pantograph
An apparatus fixed to the roof of electric traction vehicles to draw current from the overhead supply
Pass
To overtake other rail traffic travelling in the same direction
Passive control level crossing
Road and pedestrian level crossing warning that relies on road users and pedestrians looking out for and giving way to rail traffic
Permanent form
A record made in writing or in a computer system, and kept for reference and audit
Permissive signal
A fixed signal that is normally controlled by the passage of rail traffic and its normal indication is a Proceed Authority. A signal that can be passed at STOP without the authority of a Signaller or Special Proceed Authority (SPA) if it is considered safe to do
Pilot
A Qualified Worker, who accompanies, directs and advises Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators. To direct or guide Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators and tell them about local conditions and operating restrictions on running lines and at worksites
Pilot staff
A metal staff that authorises travel through a pilot staff section
Pilot Staff Notice (PSN)
A form used to give details of pilot staff working
Pilot Staff Ticket
A written authority issued after a Driver or Track Vehicle Operator has seen the pilot staff or half-staff for a section
Pilot staff working
A method of working rail traffic, using a pilot staff or half-staff, when the normal system of Safeworking is not available
Pilot Staff working Introduction
A formal authority to introduce pilot staff working
Platform
A raised or level area, next to the line, that allows people to enter and leave trains
Points
A track component consisting of paired pieces of tapered rail that can be moved and set to allow tracks to diverge or converge
Points indicator
An indicator showing the position of points
Possession
Closure of one or more lines to allow work to be carried out in the Danger Zone using a Local Possession Authority (LPA) or a Track Occupancy Authority (TOA)
Possession Protection Officer (PPO)
The Qualified Worker responsible for coordinating protection of worksites under a Local Possession Authority (LPA). See also Protection Officer
Prescribed Train
A train laden in excess of a specified percentage of the maximum load that can be hauled by the motive power unit, for that portion of line
Proceed Authority
An authority that allows rail traffic to enter and occupy a portion of line and proceed in the forward direction
Propel
To push rail traffic away from the controlling locomotive or motive power unit. To manage airbrake operation of moving rail traffic from a cab that is not the lead vehicle of a train
Protection
The means used to prevent rail traffic from entering a worksite or other portion of line, or to prevent road or pedestrian traffic from entering a level crossing
Protection Officer
The Qualified Worker responsible for managing the rail safety component of Worksite protection
Pulling list
the listed sequence in which point and signal controls must be operated to set routes
Pulsating
A regular variation in light intensity, used to distinguish the indication from a steady light of the same colour
Qualified Worker
A worker certified as competent to carry out the relevant task
Rail bond
A cable fixed across a break or joint in one rail or between two rails, to provide a path for traction return current or track-circuits
Rail-connect
to connect 1500V overhead wiring supply to the traction return rail to ensure the immediate discharge of electricity if the 1500V overhead wiring becomes live
Rail Commander
A person appointed by the Shift Manager RMC to liaise with Emergency Services and manage the rail industry response at an incident site
Rail Corridor
the land on which a railway is built; comprising all property between property fences, or if no fences, everywhere within 15m from the outermost rails
Rail traffic
trains and track vehicle or vehicles travelling on the network
Railway Track Signal
A device attached to a rail that explodes on impact, used to attract attention of Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators
Rail Vehicle Detection (RVD) Territory
the portions of line where the system of safeworking relies on track-circuiting or axle counters
Rake
Vehicles, usually not formed as a train, moved as a unit during shunting and marshalling
Refuge loop
A running line in double-line territory, with entry and exit ends connected to a main line, that is used to hold rail traffic to allow other rail traffic to cross or pass
Release
a device that allows a Qualified Worker to take trackside control of points or signals
Remotely Controlled location
An attended location where signals and/or points are controlled by a Qualified Worker at another location
Repeater Signal
A signal provided at some locations to give Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators better information about the indication of the next signal
Restrain
To prevent movement of rail traffic with signals, signalling equipment, blocking facilities, or issue of a Condition Affecting the Network (CAN) form as a warning
Restricted speed
A speed that allows rail traffic to stop short of an obstruction within half the distance of clear line that is visible ahead
Right Running-direction
the normal direction of travel on unidirectional lines
Roll-by inspection
a visual inspection of moving rail traffick to identify equipment, loading security or other defects or failures
Route
the path from one limit of authority to the next in the direction of travel
Running line
A line (other than a siding) that is used for through movement of rail traffic. See also main line and siding
Running signal
A fixed signal placed near a running line to authorise and control running movements
Running supervisor
The Qualified Worker acting as a shift manager within an Electric Vehicle Maintenance Centre (EVMC)
Safe Braking Distance
A distance indicated to rail traffic that would allow rail traffic to stop with the application of normal service braking
Safety Assessment
An assessment process used to identify hazards for all work planned for the Rail Corridor and its potential to intrude on the Danger Zone
SAFE Notice
An authorised notice distributed to give advice in addition to that provided in the Network Rules, Network Procedures or Network Local Appendices
Safe Place
A place where workers and equipment cannot be struck by rail traffic
Section
The line between the departure-end yard limit of one location and the arrival-end yard limit of another location. A section consists of one or more blocks
Secure
to place and keep something in a known or prepared place or position to safeguard it against accidental or unauthorised access or movement
Set Back
to move in the reverse direction to that provided in the current Proceed Authority
Shunt
To move rail traffic, rakes of vehicles, or vehicles on lines for purposes other than through-movement
Shunting Signal
A fixed signal provided to authorise and control shunting movements
Shunting yard
A system of tracks, within defined limits, used for shunting and marchalling
Siding
A portion of line where vehicles can be placed clear of the running lines,. See also intermediate siding
Sighting distrance
the distance that someone can clearly see along the track
Signaller
A Qualified Worker who issues Occupancy Authorities, and works points, signals and other signalling equipment to manage routes for safe and efficient transit of rail traffic in the Network
Signalling and telecommunications Infrastructure
Signalling equipment and telecommunications equipment used as part of the safeworking and operating systems of the Network
Signals Engineer
A person with the appropriate delegated authority and signals engineering competence to make judgements about signalling safety
Signals Maintenance Representative
A qualified and authorised signals maintenance worker
Site controller
The lead agency officer or multi agency response police officer appointed by and subject to the direction of an Emergency Operations controller
Special Proceed Authority (SPA)
A method of special working which may be used when the normal system of Safeworking is not available
Special Train Notice (STN)
A published notice providing details of train operations or events that might affect train operations
Special Working
Working rail traffic using a Special Proceed Authority (SPA), pilot staff working or manual block working
Speed restriction Notice
An information sheet listing temporary speed restrictions for specific locations
Stable
To leave rail traffic unattended and secured, usually in a siding
Staff
a metal rod which is, or can be used to issue, the token for a section
Substation
A place (including substations, traction substations, transformer rooms, switch rooms, sectioning huts, pole-mounted or pad mounted transformers_ Containing High-voltage electrical equipment
Sufficient warning time
The minimum time needed for workers to react to a Lookout’s Warning and move themselves and equipment to a safe place; should include time for the Lookout’s reaction and a margin for safety
System of Safeworking
An integrated system of operating procedures and engineered systems used in the Network, for safe operation of rail traffic, and protection of people and property
Tail lights
Red lights used to designate the end of rail traffic. See also end-of-train markers
Terminal line
A dead-end line
Through-movement
Transit or travel in the Network
Token
A pilot staff or pilot staff ticket used as the authority for rail traffic to occupy a section
Tonnage signal
A signal before a steeply rising grade, with a sign that directs Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators of prescribed trains, the sign may be before or fitted to a signal
Track
The combination of rails, rail connectors, sleepers, ballast, points and crossings
Trackside monitoring equipment
Devices that monitor and respond to track, trackside and rail vehicle conditions
Track-circuit
An electric circuit where current is carried through the rails and used to detect the presence of trains. Used in the operation and control of points and signalling equipment
Track-circuited territory
Portions of line where the system of Safeworking relies on track-circuits to detect the presence of rail traffic
Track-circuit shorting clip
A cable that can be clamped to a line’s rails to activate track circuits
Track indicator diagram
a diagram that shows if tracks are occupied and other relevant information
Track Occupancy Authority (TOA)
An authority for Qualified Workers and their equipment to occupy a defined portion of line for an agreed period
Track speed
The allowed maximum speed for a portion of line
Track vehicle
A vehicle, usually self-propelled, used for inspecting and/or maintaining infrastructure
Track Vehicle Number (identification)
the unique number displayed on a track vehicle
Track Vehicle Crew
The Qualified Workers responsible for the operation of a track vehicle
Track Vehicle Operator
A Qualified Worker controlling the movement of a track vehicle
Track work
Construction, maintenance or repair work on or around infrastructure in the rail Corridor
Track workers
Qualified rail safety workers whose primary duties are associated with work on or around infrastructure in the Rail Corridor
Track Work Authority (TWA)
An authority for non-exclusive occupancy of track by track workers within specified limits
Traction return current
The electric current returning from the 1500V overhead power supply through the rails to sub-stations
Train
A locomotive or self-propelled vehicle, alone or couples to one or more vehicles
Train Control Diagram (graph)
A diagram showing operational information for a train control area, also known as a Train Control graph
Train Crew
The Qualified Workers responsible for the operation of a train
Train Number (identification)
A train or run number used to provide unique identification of a train
Train Operating Conditions (TOC) Waiver
A notice of changes or exceptions to the requirements specified in the Train Operating Conditions (TOC) manual
Train Running Information
Information about rail traffic movement and frequency provided for a particular location
Train Stop
A device that can activate emergency brake applications on passing trains
Mechanical train stop
a device located next to a line, at or between signals, which raises an arm to activate a trains trip gear
An ATP train stop
Electronically activates the emergency brake via the train’s Automatic train
Transfer
Movement from location to location
Transit
Through-movement along a portion of line
Travel
Planned or purposeful movement from one location to another
Unattended location
A signalling Location of Block location that is not a remote controlled location, and where a Signaller is not on duty
Unauthorised
Not given approval, or exceeding the limit of authority
Unidirectional
Allowing for normal travel in one direction only according to the infrastructure and system of Safeworking in use
Visibility lights
Lights, fitted below the headlights, to improve rolling stock’s ability to be seen and to assist the crew in viewing of the immediate area in front of the vehicle
Weekly Notice
A publication that Advertises changes to, and details of, Safeworking arrangements
Wheel Scale
A build-up of metallic material on a wheel tread’s surface
Whistle
A device such as a bell, whistle, siren, horn or hooter, fitted to rail traffic to give audible warning
WOLO
Speed restrictions applied during hot weather
Worksite
A site with boundaries that are fixed and defined for the duration of work
Work on track
The work performed in the Rail Corridor. To Perform work in the Rail COrridor
Work on track authority
An authority to work on track
Work on track method
A method to work on track
Work Train
A train used in maintenance or construction activities
Wrong running-direction
the direction opposite to the normal direction of travel of unidirectional lines
Yard
A system of tracks within yard limits
Yard Limit
A defined operational limit on a running line
