Possession Controller

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Transport for London
London Underground
Access
Possession Controller
Issue 1
Effective 31st January 2015
MAYOR OF LONDON
Learning information booklet

1 Introduction 4
2 Roles and responsibilities 5
3 Possession 10
4 Types of possession 11
5 Planning and organising a possession 13
6 Possession documentation 20
7 Possession protection 27
8 Possession isolation 52
9 Depot isolations 57
10 Possession demarcation 58
11 Briefings 60
12 Communication 63
13 Setting up the possession 66
14 Engineer’s trains entering a possession 70
15 Engineer’s trains leaving the possession 75
16 Planned or emergency work within a possession 81
17 Failure to finish work or possession on time 82
18 Giving up the worksites 83
19 Starting the process of giving up the possession 84
20 References 86
Contents
Section page
4section
Introduction 1 1 Introduction
The Possession Controller (PC) training will provide you with the
skills and knowledge to:
• place and remove protection methods for a possession
• place and remove the protection, possession and traction
current blocks and limits
• place and remove isolations for a possession
• place and remove the worksite limits (if applicable)
• manage the protection, possession and isolation arrangements
• control the movements of engineer’s trains and mechanised
vehicles.
1.1 On successful completion of this training
On successful completion of this training, you must arrange an
appointment with the Access department and obtain a temporary
Internal Verification (IV) number, valid for six months.
Once you have been observed successfully carrying out the
activities of the PC on two occasions, by an approved assessor, you
will obtain a full IV number.
Track safety certificates must be carried at all times when on
or about the track.
Introduction
5section
2 Roles and responsibilities
2 Roles and responsibilities
2.1 Protecting Workers on the Track – Train
Movements
2.2 Protecting Workers on the Track – Possession
Worksites
A person certificated by London Underground
(LU) to safely manage worksites and to
supervise and control the movement of an
engineer’s train or mechanised vehicle within
a Specified Area (SA) or an Engineer’s Current
Area (ECA).
A PWT-TM can be identified with a ‘Train
Movements’ armband worn on the left arm
above the elbow.
A person certificated by LU to safely manage
possession worksites and to supervise and
control the movement of an engineer’s train or
mechanised vehicles within their worksite.
A PWT-PW can be identified with a ‘Possession
Worksite’ armband worn on the left arm above
the elbow.
6section
Roles and responsibilities 2
2.3 Manager in Charge of Possession /
Engineer in Charge
2.4 Possession Controller
A person who plans the possession and
ensures that all work within the possession is
carried out safely.
A person certificated by LU to take control
and give up a possession, in order to carry out
engineering and similar work.
A PC can be identified with a ‘PC’ armband
worn on the left arm above the elbow.
The activity of the Protection Support Manager (POSM) is
normally undertaken by a person certificated as a PC. In
some possessions the PC will also undertake the duties of
the POSM.
7section
2 Roles and responsibilities
2.5 Duty Depot Manager /
Maintenance Manager Operations
Controls and manages the day to day running of a depot.
2.6 Controller
Any suitably competent person, in overall control of the train
service on a line, normally acting from the line’s control room.
2.7 Signaller
Any suitably competent person who operates signal control
equipment.
8section
Roles and responsibilities 2
2.8 Track Access Controller
A person licensed by LU to control the Line Clear and Line Safe
procedures during Engineering Hours.
2.9 Vehicle Control Centre Operator
Monitors, controls and maintains the VCC in addition to setting
and locking points.
The VCC operator is not a signaller and does not authorise
train movements.
Roles and responsibilities
9section
2
2.10 Engineer’s Train Operator
A person, certificated by LU, to drive an electric, battery or diesel
train or locomotive.
2.11 Support staff
Persons trained and certificated by LU to carry out the following
activities:
• forward, rear and intermediate limit defining
• checking the status of traction current
• securing and un-securing points
• lookout (if required).
Other support staff can include engineer (electrical), engineer
(signals) and engineer (track).
10section
Possession 3 3 Possession
A possession is defined as ‘a designated section of track where a
PC has control. Unauthorised train movements into the section are
prevented by the arrangements shown in the relevant Rule Book.’
3.1 When is a possession necessary
A possession is necessary:
• if a section of track is to be made physically unsafe for the
operation of any trains or mechanised vehicles
• at any time, as a way of guaranteeing sole occupancy of a
section of track
• when extended periods of track access are required
• when uncertificated staff will be on the track with no trains
moving, except during Engineering Hours or on an approved
training course and adequately protected
• when traction current will be switched off and on, other than at
the published or amended time
• when there has been a component failure which prevents the
railway from operating safely, this is an emergency possession.
If a possession is required in an emergency this must be arranged
by the controller. The controller must make sure that:
• the area is protected from the unauthorised entry of trains,
staff and the accidental livening up of traction current rails
• an MCP/EIC, or a duty manager and a PC is appointed by the
close of Traffic Hours on the day of the emergency possession.
Possession
11section
4 Types of possession
4 Types of possession
4.1 Minor possessions
There are two types of minor possessions:
• fixed-term possessions
• regular maintenance possessions.
4.2 Fixed-term possessions
A fixed-term possession:
• does not require alterations to the normal timetabled passenger
service
• might be one possession or a series of possessions over a fixed
period of time
• must normally be planned in advance
• must have a possession plan.
4.3 Regular maintenance possessions
A regular maintenance possession is where a possession is needed
at intervals to carry out maintenance work, it:
• might involve minor local timetabled alterations, for example,
moving a train from a stabling siding to allow work to take place
• must have a possession plan for the first possession which
can be used for subsequent identical possessions. A new
possession plan must be produced if there are material changes
to the arrangements within the plan.
• must normally be planned in advance for the first possession,
and subsequent possessions can be carried out at shorter
notice.
12section
Types of possession 4 4.4 Major possessions
Major possessions affect the normal timetabled passenger service,
it must:
• be planned in advance
• have a possession plan.
Examples of a major possession include:
• Uxbridge blockade
• Hammersmith and City line blockade.
Types of possession
13section
5 Planning and organising a possession
5 Planning and organising a possession
5.1 Appointing a project manager
Any company undertaking a possession on LU must appoint a
project manager to:
• plan and deliver the work for each worksite within the
possession
• carry out tasks mandated in the relevant Rule Book.
Where Engineering Hours and routine maintenance possessions
are concerned a responsible manager from the asset discipline
requiring the possession must be appointed.
For Engineering Hours and regular maintenance possessions it is
not always appropriate, or necessary to appoint a project manager
or MCP/EIC. In these circumstances a suitably competent person
must be appointed to manage the possession, following the
principles detailed in the relevant Rule Book; if this is not feasible,
or possible then the reasons must be documented.
All possession staff undertaking tasks must comply with all of the
following:
• be familiar with the area covered by the possession, or the
specific area in which they will work
• hold the correct certification and licences for the task(s) they
need to undertake
• be competent to undertake the task(s) assigned to them.
An individual can perform more than one activity providing
they can safely carry out the duties of all the activities or
tasks, and they have the necessary certification and licences.
This must be decided at the possession planning meeting.
14section
Planning and organising a possession 5
5.2 Appointing a Manager in Charge of Possession /
Engineer in Charge
An MCP/EIC will be appointed for each possession and must:
• be competent to plan a possession
• make sure that the work is carried out safely within the
possession.
5.3 Responsibilities of a Manager in Charge of
Possession / Engineer in Charge
An MCP/EIC plans the possession and ensures that all work is
carried out safely within the possession.
5.4 Appointing a Possession Controller
A PC must be appointed to:
• establish and manage the possession protection arrangements
• give up the possession in a controlled, safe and effective
manner
• safely move trains into and out of the possession.
For a minor possession the PC can be part of the work group,
but must not interfere with their PC duties.
This must be agreed at the possession planning meeting.
15section
5 Planning and organising a possession
5.5 Responsibilities of a Possession Controller
The PC is responsible for:
• arranging protection for a section of track (with protection staff
and other competent persons, as required)
• a section of track handed over from the controller
• handing back the section of the track to the controller
• arranging traction current arrangements, if necessary
• authorising and co-ordinating the movement of engineer’s trains
into and out of the possession, to and from the operational
railway.
The PC is also responsible for:
• authorising mechanised vehicles on to and off the operational
railway
• the safety of personnel on the track between the protection
and the start of the possession during:
• Traffic Hours in conjunction with the controller
• Engineering Hours in conjunction with the TAC
• liaising with the POSM over the movement of engineer’s
trains and mechanised vehicles into, out of and through the
possession and worksites.
16section
Planning and organising a possession 5
5.6 Appointing a Protection Support Manager
A POSM must be appointed to:
• establish and manage the worksite protection arrangements
• give up the worksites in a controlled, safe and effective manner
• ensure the safe movement of trains within the possession
including into and out of worksites.
5.7 Responsibilities of a Protection Support Manager
The POSM is responsible for:
• arranging the worksite(s) to be defined
• the protection of staff within the worksite(s)
• co-ordinating protection for the worksite(s)
• authorising and co-ordinating the movement of engineer’s
trains and mechanised vehicles into, through and out of each
worksite and, if necessary, between worksites
• setting up a safe system of work for each worksite with the
PWT-PW/SPC
• assisting the PC as required.
The POSM must be identifiable to all staff and can be part
of the work group, but this must not interfere with their
POSM duties and must be agreed at the possession planning
meeting.
17section
5 Planning and organising a possession
5.8 Appointing a Protecting Workers on the TrackPossession Worksites or Site Person in Charge
A PWT-PW/SPC must be appointed for each worksite and they
must have the competence to ensure, the:
• work within the worksite is planned and carried out in a safe
manner
• safe movement of trains into, within and out of the worksite.
5.9 Responsibilities of a Protecting Workers on the
Track-Possession Worksites or Site Person in
Charge
The PWT-PW/SPC is the designated person in a worksite
responsible for:
• the work in progress
• discipline
• programme of work
• plant
• materials
• general health and safety
• setting up a safe system of work in collaboration with the
POSM
• liaising with the POSM on the movement of engineer’s trains
and mechanised vehicles into and out of the worksite
• co-ordinating with the person responsible for the movement of
engineer’s trains and mechanised vehicles in the worksite.
18section
Planning and organising a possession 5
5.10 Appointing support staff
The support staff are responsible for:
• placing blocks and marker boards as instructed by the PC
• checking for traction current as instructed by the PC
• implementing approved protection methods on behalf of the
PC
• controlling the movement of engineer’s trains and mechanised
vehicles between the protection block and worksite limit as
instructed by the PC
• securing and unsecuring points for the movement of engineer’s
trains and mechanised vehicles between the protection method
and possession limit as instructed by the PC
• placing and removing Short Circuit Device’s (SCD) as instructed
by the PC.
5.11 Responsibilities of support staff
The support staff are also responsible for:
• checking for traction current as instructed by the POSM
• placing and removing SCD’s as instructed by the POSM
• securing and unsecuring points for the movement of engineer’s
trains and mechanised vehicles within and between worksites
as instructed by the POSM
• controlling the movement of engineer’s trains and mechanised
vehicles within worksites, and between worksites as instructed
by the POSM
• defining the limits of a worksite as instructed by the POSM.
19section
5 Planning and organising a possession
The MCP/EIC must make sure that the following possession
activities, if required, are assigned to one or more competent,
certificated and licensed staff:
• placing of the protection block(s), where required
• placing of the possession limit marker(s)
• placing of the traction current gap marker(s)
• securing of points
• safe movement of engineer’s trains and mechanised vehicles
• implementation of special traction current arrangements
• checking for traction current
• creation of short circuits or use of SCD’s
• maintaining of signals at danger
• placing of worksite limit markers.
An individual can perform more than one activity or several
tasks as long as they can safely carry out the duties of all the
activities or tasks, and they have the necessary certification
and licences.
20section
Possession documentation 6
6 Possession documentation
All possessions must be planned, managed properly, and
appropriate documentation produced to demonstrate this.
The following possession documents are produced and approved
for each possession:
• possession plan
• possession works guide
• train matrix (working plan)
• risk assessment.
6.1 Possession plan
A possession plan must be produced for every possession
whatever the duration. This must be specific to the particular
location and detail the method of protection. The possession plan
must include the following information:
• area which will be under possession and its limits
• protection methods to be used at each point of entry to the
possession
• protection limits
• traction current limits
• traction current arrangements including details on how the area
under possession must be isolated, and the locations where a
traction current short circuit must be created
• emergency preparedness plan, for example, evacuation
procedure and emergency contact telephone numbers
• plan for the safe movement of engineer’s trains or mechanised
vehicles entering or leaving a possession
• process for gaining agreement to authorise engineer’s trains to
move into, out of, and between worksites
Possession documentation
21section
6
• contingency arrangements to protect or mitigate the impact of
the possession not being completed on time or other foreseen
considerations, including climatic conditions
• other work, if any, will be allowed to take place between the
protection block and possession limit during any Engineering
Hours part of the possession.
All alterations to the signal and control systems or traction current
arrangements to provide protection for the possession must
be authorised in the possession plan, by a competent engineer
nominated by the relevant engineering authority.
Where possessions are planned which do not run from sub-station
to sub-station, the LU power engineer must agree to the required
traction current alterations before the possession.
Opening section switches or making other physical traction current
arrangements might have an affect on revised traction current
feeding arrangements and must be checked and approved by the
LU power engineer.
22section
Possession documentation 6
The MCP/EIC must make sure the possession plan is agreed and
formally signed off by:
• key engineering staff, including engineer (signal) and engineer
(electrical), for agreement to implement
• engineer’s trains and plant supplier, for agreement to implement
• operational managers, for agreement to implement
• TAC, for agreement that Engineering Hours can be carried out
around the possession, and agreement to carry out duties
identified for the TAC
• PC and POSM, for understanding and agreement to implement
• LU Access department for agreement that the details of the
possession are consistent with the approved closure, and must
be published correctly in the appropriate publication.
There might be occasions or circumstances when changes have
to be made to a possession plan after it has been approved and
issued. These must be made on a ‘Short Notice Change’ which
must be issued to all concerned. The MCP/EIC must approve the
‘Short Notice Change’ after consultation with those affected by the
change.
For Engineering Hours and maintenance possessions it might
not be practical for the PC and POSM to agree and sign the
possession plan or possession works guide. This must be
done by their manager and the details within the plan briefed
to the PC and the POSM.
23section
6 Possession documentation
6.2 Possession works guide
A possession works guide must be produced for every possession
whatever the duration. The possession works guide must include:
• the area under possession
• number of worksites and limits
• information about each worksite (diagrams should be used
wherever possible)
• protection to be used at each point of entry to the worksite
• brief scope of work and worksite times
• plant or equipment to be used
• contingency arrangements in the event of work not being
completed within the time allowed
• any additional relevant information.
When engineer’s trains or mechanised vehicles are working the
possession works guide must contain details of:
• running to, and passing the engineer’s train or mechanised
vehicle into the possession
• passing the engineer’s train or mechanised vehicle through the
area under possession, including into a worksite
• working engineer’s train or mechanised vehicle within a worksite
• passing the engineer’s train or mechanised vehicle out of a
worksite and into an area under possession
• passing the engineer’s train or mechanised vehicle out of the
possession and on to the operational railway.
The possession works guide must be specific to the
particular location and the method of protection. The
possession works guide can be re-used for other possessions
in the same location, using the same method of protection
and undertaking the same type of work.
24section
Possession documentation 6
The possession works guide must also contain contingency
arrangements for dealing with unplanned events such as:
• the cancellation or delay of any engineer’s train or mechanised
vehicle
• the non-availability of a critical resource
• any other event likely to have a detrimental effect including
safety and the ability to finish the work as programmed.
The MCP/EIC must make sure the possession works guide is agreed
and formally signed off by the following persons:
• key engineering staff, including engineer (signal) and engineer
(electrical), for agreement to implement
• engineer’s trains and plant supplier, for agreement to implement
• operational managers, for agreement to implement (if required)
• PC and POSM, for understanding and agreement to implement
• MCP/EIC, for final approval.
The possession works guide must also include, for each shift as
appropriate, the contact details of:
• MCP/EIC or operating official
• PC
• POSM
• PWT-PW or SPC
• service manager
• duty operations manager (engineering)
• controllers
• signallers
• TAC.
25section
6 Possession documentation
6.3 Train matrix (working plan)
The MCP/EIC must produce a train matrix where multiple
engineer’s trains and mechanised vehicles are working in a
possession. The train matrix must include the safe entry, exit and
movement of the engineer’s trains and mechanised vehicles.
6.4 Risk assessment
Risk assessment(s) must be carried out to identify hazards and
assess risks associated with all the activities undertaken in the
possession, specifically relating to the following:
• the risks to staff and assets within the possession
• the risks to customers, staff, assets and LU customer services
adjacent to the possession.
The findings of the risk assessment(s) must be used to identify,
prioritise and manage measures to control or reduce the risks
associated with the implementation of a possession, and the work
being undertaken within it.
The MCP/EIC must review the risk assessment produced by
the contractor undertaking the work to identify the risks to the
possession arising from the:
• planned work
• interaction between worksite(s) and the possession.
It is not necessary to produce a train matrix if only one
engineer’s train or mechanised vehicle is working in a
possession or where, in a possession with more than one
worksite, engineer’s trains and mechanised vehicles are
‘locked in’ to the worksite for the duration of the possession.
26section
Possession documentation 6 6.5 Publishing the possession
The details of all possessions must be published in the relevant LU
publications, including:
• Engineering Notice Look Ahead
• Engineering Notice
• Nightly Engineering Protection Arrangements (NEPA).
The exception to this is an emergency possession which
prevents the railway from operating safely.
Possession documentation
27section
7 Possession protection
7 Possession protection
7.1 Methods of protecting a possession
There are various methods available for protecting a possession
depending on the location or environment where the possession
is taking place. A combination of these methods can be used to
protect a possession, they include:
• using the signalling system to stop trains reaching the
possession
• securing points to divert trains away from the possession
• securing a train on the approach side of a possession
• using a physical barrier in un-signalled depots and sidings
• using traction current sections to prevent trains from reaching
the possession.
A possession:
• must be protected in each direction from which a train can
approach on a running line (this must be when working under
normal operating conditions and fixed signalling)
• starts at the protection block
• ends at the leaving possession marker
• can include one or more separately defined worksites.
28section
Possession protection 7
7.2 Maintaining a signal at danger
To protect a possession the following signals can be used:
• semi-automatic signal
• automatic signal treated as a protection signal and renumbered
with a ‘PNX’ prefix.
The signal overlap of the signal being maintained at danger must
be long enough to prevent a train passing the signal at danger, from
reaching the first possession limit marker.
Details of which semi-automatic signals, or PNX protection signals
to be maintained at danger, will be agreed at the possession
planning meeting.
When an automatic signal is being renumbered as a PNX
protection signal, details will be published in the Traffic
Circular; including the location of the signal(s) and the
duration of the renumbering.
29section
7 Possession protection
7.3 Before maintaining the signal at danger
Before taking the possession the PC must agree with the engineer
(signal) and the signaller:
• which semi automatic signal(s) will be maintained at danger to
protect the possession
• the details of any automatic signals being renumbered as ‘PNX’
protection signals.
When the controller has given permission for the possession to be
taken, the PC must tell the signaller:
• the possession plan reference number
• the possession is ready to be taken
• details of semi-automatic signal(s) or ‘PNX’ protection signal(s)
that will be maintained at danger
• the LU approved method being used to maintain the signal(s) at
danger.
Before the possession is taken the PC must hold a briefing with the
engineer (signal) and support staff to agree details for maintaining
the signal(s) at danger.
When the controller has given permission for the possession to be
taken, the PC must tell the engineer (signal) to:
• maintain the signal(s) at danger using the LU approved method
• write the details of the possession on the request form (OSU
POSS 001) and sign the request form as confirmation that the
signal(s) have been maintained at danger using the LU approved
method
• tell the PC when this has done this.
Once the signal(s) has been maintained at danger, the
engineer (signal) must tell the Maintenance Control Centre
which semi-automatic or ‘PNX’ protection signals (or both)
are maintained at danger.
30section
Possession protection 7
7.4 Before reinstating the signal
When the possession is no longer required the PC must hold a
briefing with the engineer (signal) and support staff to agree details
for reinstating the signal(s).
When the possession is no longer required, the PC must tell the
signaller that the engineer (signal) will be reinstating/renumbering
the signal(s) that have been maintained at danger.
The PC will tell the engineer (signal) to:
• tell the signaller that they are going to reinstate the signal(s)
• remove the method for maintaining the signal(s) at danger
• renumber the ‘PNX’ protection signal, if appropriate
• sign the possession form (OSU POSS 001) once the signal(s) has
been reinstated/renumbered and the PC is informed.
7.5 Protection key switch
Certain semi-automatic signals can be maintained at danger by
using a protection key switch at the following locations:
Victoria line
• Brixton
• Finsbury
• Highbury & Islington
• Walthamstow Central
• Northumberland Park depot
• Seven Sisters
The PC must not carry out these instructions until
all markers, blocks and any special traction current
arrangements have been removed and the controller and
DDM/MMO, as appropriate, have been informed.
31section
7 Possession protection
• Victoria
• King’s Cross
• Warren Street
District line
• Putney Bridge
7.6 Before operating the protection key switch
Where protection key switches are being used to protect a
possession, the PC must hold a briefing with the engineer (signal)
or support staff and agree what must be done to operate the
protection key switch.
The PC must confirm with the support staff the details of the
protection key switches to be operated and tell the support staff
to:
• complete section A of the form (OSU PKSR 008) and give the
form to the station supervisor and ask the appropriate station
supervisor to open the protection key switch box
• get the station supervisor to sign the form (OSU PKSR 008) and
give it back to them
• ask the signaller for permission to remove the appropriate key(s)
• when permission is given, operate and withdraw the key(s) and
keep them safe
• tell the PC when this has done this.
The PC must tell the signaller when the key(s) have been
removed.
32section
Possession protection 7
7.7 Before reinstating the protection key switch
When the possession is no longer required, the PC must hold a
briefing with the engineer (signal) and support staff to agree what
must be done before reinstating the protection key switch.
The PC must tell the support staff:
• to tell the station supervisor which protection key switches will
be reset
• to ask the appropriate station supervisor to open the protection
key switch box(s)
• reset the protection key switches
• tell the signaller when this has been done
• tell the PC when this has been done
• to complete section B of the form (OSU PKSR 008) and ask the
station supervisor to sign their part of section B.
The PC must not carry out these instructions until
all markers, blocks and any special traction current
arrangements have been removed and the controller and
DDM/MMO, as appropriate, have been informed.
33section
7 Possession protection
7.8 Closing tracks
On lines fitted with the Transmission Based Train Control (TBTC)
signalling system, signals can be maintained at danger by closing
tracks.
7.9 Before closing tracks
Before taking the possession, the PC must agree with the engineer
(signal) and the signaller which track(s) will be closed to protect the
possession.
Once permission is given by the controller, the PC must tell the
engineer (signal) to protect the possession by closing the track(s)
using the LU approved method.
For possessions involving Traffic Hours, the service manager,
controller and signaller must be consulted before closing (or
reopening) tracks.
34section
Possession protection 7
7.10 Before reinstating the closed tracks
When the possession in no longer required the PC must request
permission from the controller to give up the possession.
The PC must tell the engineer (signal):
• the possession is no longer required
• to reopen the track(s) concerned
• to tell the PC when this has been done.
The PC must not carry out these instructions until
all markers, blocks and any special traction current
arrangements have been removed and the controller and
DDM/MMO, as appropriate, have been informed.
35section
7 Possession protection
7.11 Protecting a possession by securing points
Facing points can be secured, using the approved method, so as to
divert trains away from the section under possession. The points
must be secured in the normal position unless the points are
controlled from one of the signal boxes listed below, when they
can be secured in either the normal or reverse positions.
Circle and Hammersmith Lines
• Hammersmith (OZ) open continuously lever number 1 to 35.
• Edgware Road (OP) open continuously lever numbers 1 to 39.
Metropolitan Line
• Rickmansworth (JP) open continuously lever numbers 1 to 47.
District Line
• Whitechapel (EN) open continuously lever numbers 1 to 46.
It must be agreed at the possession planning meeting which points
will need to be secured to protect the possession. The point
number and position to be secured (normal or reverse) will be
published in the Engineering Notice Look Ahead or Engineering
Notice.
36section
Possession protection 7
7.12 Before securing the points
Before the possession is taken the PC must hold a briefing with
the support staff to agree which points need be secured and their
positions.
When permission has been given to take the possession, the PC
must tell the signaller:
• the possession plan reference number
• the possession is ready to be taken
• which points are to be secured.
When permission has been given to take the possession the PC
must, then tell the support staff to:
• secure the agreed points
• retain the padlock key, or combination, safe until the
possession is no longer required, or pass it on to their relief
• tell the PC when this has been done.
7.13 Before unsecuring the points
When the possession is no longer required, the PC must hold a
briefing with the support staff to agree details for unsecuring the
points.
When permission has been given to give up the possession, the PC
must tell the support staff to:
• unsecure the points providing protection
• to tell the PC when this has been done.
The PC must remind the support staff that points might
move suddenly and without warning.
37section
7 Possession protection
When the PC has received confirmation that the points are
unsecured they must ask the signaller to test the points to make
sure they are working correctly.
7.14 Protecting a possession by using a secured train
This method of protecting a possession is used when a train is
secured on the approach side of the possession, and a marker is
secured to the running rails in the four foot telling personnel they
are entering or leaving a possession.
It must be agreed at the possession planning meeting which train
will be secured to protect the possession. The number of the train
that will be used to protect the possession will be published in the
Engineering Notice Look Ahead or Engineering Notice.
The PC must not carry out these instructions until
all markers, blocks and any special traction current
arrangements have been removed and the controller and
DDM/MMO, as appropriate, have been informed.
The train being secured for protection must conform to the
definition of a train.
38section
Possession protection 7
7.15 Before securing the train
Before the possession is taken the PC must hold a briefing with the
support staff to agree the details for securing the train.
Once permission has been given to take the possession, the PC
must brief the support staff to tell the ETO to:
• secure the train
• display red aspect tail lights at both ends of the train
• tell them when this is done
• give them the appropriate key.
When the train has been secured and the support staff are in
possession of the appropriate driver’s key they must:
• sign the train journal
• tell the PC the train has been secured.
If the train is being uncoupled, the ETO must not give the reverser/
selector/RKL220 key to the support staff until this has been done.
39section
7 Possession protection
7.16 Before unsecuring the train
When the possession is no longer required the PC must hold a
briefing with the support staff to agree details for unsecuring the
train.
When permission has been given to give up the possession, the PC
must tell the support staff to return the key back to the ETO and
tell the ETO to:
• unsecure the train as it is no longer required for protection
• sign the train journal
• tell them when this has been done
• uncouple or recouple the train
• display the correct lights for the return journey
• drive the train to the booked point (if required).
The support staff must tell the PC once the train has been
unsecured.
The PC must not carry out these instructions until
all markers, blocks and any special traction current
arrangements have been removed and the controller and
DDM/MMO, as appropriate, have been informed.
40section
Possession protection 7
7.17 Protecting a possession using the Line Clear or Line
Safe procedures
This method of protecting a possession must only be used during
Engineering Hours for a minor possession and relies on the Line
Clear and Line Safe procedures to provide a protecting ‘buffer’
traction current section, where traction current is switched off,
to prevent unauthorised trains from reaching the traction current
section(s), depot or siding under possession.
It is not possible to pass trains into and out of a possession
through this means of protection. However, if this method is being
used in conjunction with other protection methods, trains can
be passed into and out of the possession through that particular
method of protection if permissible.
Traction current section(s) required for the possession and those
required for the ‘buffer’ protection will be agreed at the planning
meeting. If there are no stations on the protecting ‘buffer’ traction
current section, details of how the PWT-EH will access the traction
current section, and the protection required from the TAC in order
to do so, must be specified within the possession plan.
41section
7 Possession protection
This method of protection can be used to protect a depot (or part
of) or siding as long as:
• the person responsible for the depot can allow the work to take
place while Engineering Hours applies on the protecting traction
current section
• traction current is not switched on to the protecting traction
current section while the possession is still in force.
If it is necessary to use more than one traction current section
to provide protection for the depot or sidings, the possession
start and finish time must be based on the latest and earliest
traction current switching times, for the traction current section(s)
concerned. Details of the traction current section(s) required to
protect the possession will be published in the Engineering Notice
Look Ahead or Engineering Notice.
When using this protection method, the PC can carry out the role
of the support staff as long as this does not prevent them from
carrying out their PC duties.
The PC must place a possession limit marker at the boundary
between the possession and the protecting traction current
section. There is no need to place a protection block or traction
current gap marker.
If using this method in conjunction with other methods of
protection, the requirement for placing the protection block and
traction current gap marker contained in the other methods of
protection will apply.
There are no additional restrictions on other personnel
accessing the protecting traction current section(s) during
Engineering Hours using the Line Clear or Line Safe
procedures.
42section
Possession protection 7
7.18 Implementing the Line Clear or Line Safe
protection for the possession
Once permission has been given to take the possession, the PC
must:
• tell the controller that the PC will arrange for the support staff
to book on with the TAC
• make sure support staff book on with the TAC
• ask the signaller for agreement to take the possession.
The PC must hold a briefing with the support staff, and tell them:
• the traction current section(s) to be used as protection to be
requested from the TAC
• to tell the PC when Engineering Hours has commenced on the
appropriate traction current section(s).
The PC must tell the support staff to:
• book on with the TAC for the protecting ‘buffer’ traction
current section
• check on site for traction current
• tell the PC when this has been done.
When the support staff have booked on with the TAC and
Engineering Hours has commenced on the traction current
section(s), the PC must arrange for the possession limit marker(s) to
be placed.
7.19 Removing the Line Clear or Line Safe protection for
the possession
When the possession is no longer required, the PC must hold a
briefing with the support staff to agree details for removing the
possession protection. The protection must not be given up with
the TAC until the possession marker(s) have been removed.
43section
7 Possession protection
Before telling the support staff to clear with the TAC, the PC must
tell the TAC that the possession is about to be given up. This
authorises the TAC to accept the site clear or site safe message(s)
from the support staff.
When the TAC has been informed, the PC must tell the support
staff to:
• pass a site clear or site safe message to the TAC for the traction
current section(s) providing protection, once they have removed
the possession limit marker(s)
• tell you when they have done this.
If the work will not be finished by the call-back time, the PC must
contact the TAC and ask for Late Surrender Protection (LSP).
7.20 Protecting a possession in an un-signalled depot
using a physical barrier
This method of protection can be used in fully un-signalled depots
or on un-signalled tracks in other depots. A physical barrier,
such as a timber baulk, is placed in the four foot as a warning to
train operators that the section of the track concerned is under
possession.
44section
Possession protection 7
Shed doors can be used as a physical barrier, as long as they can be
secured in the closed position for the duration of the possession,
except if there is a requirement to pass a train or mechanised
vehicle, into, or through the possession.
Before taking the possession the PC must arrange with the DDM/
MMO:
• details of the work being done
• the extent of the worksite
• possession protection details
• the risk of movement of trains on adjacent roads
• a permit to work form (OSU POSS 002)
• special traction current arrangements.
The PC can carry out all the protection arrangements themselves,
but in some circumstances they might need assistance from
support staff.
Where trains are stabled within a possession, or are stabled on
tracks outside the possession, but on the same traction current
section, train movements must not be made without the authority
of the PC. This is to prevent an isolated section being ‘livened up’
by a feed from a battery locomotive.
The PC must make sure that the trains concerned are displaying the
appropriate target.
7.21 Placing the protection in an un-signalled depot
When permission is given by the DDM/MMO to taken the
possession, the PC must tell the controller:
• to switch off traction current from the traction current
section(s) concerned
• tell the PC when this has been done.
45section
7 Possession protection
If the possession involves track fed from overhead trolleys, the PC
must agree with the DDM/MMO how this track will be isolated.
When the controller confirms that traction current has been
switched off, the PC must:
• test for traction current on the traction current section(s)
concerned
• place a physical barrier in the four foot or lower the shed door
and secure it in the down position, on the track(s) concerned
• place a lamp showing a red aspect and a detonator on the side
of the physical barrier or shed door where trains can approach
from
• place a possession limit marker at the physical block or shed
door
• arrange for any special traction current arrangements and short
circuits to be placed (if applicable).
7.22 Removing the protection in an un-signalled depot
When the possession is no longer required, the PC must:
• arrange for any special traction current arrangements and short
circuits to be removed
• remove the possession limit marker
• remove the lamp(s) and detonator(s)
• remove the physical barrier or unsecure and open the shed
doors (as appropriate)
• tell the DDM/MMO when you have done this
• tell the signaller when this has been done.
The PC must arrange for the possession limit marker and
traction current gap markers to be placed.
46section
Possession protection 7
The PC must tell the controller that:
• all traction current arrangements and short circuits have been
removed
• the possession is no longer required
• traction current can be switched on to the section(s) concerned.
The PC must complete a permit to work form (OSU POSS 002).
7.23 Tower controlled depots
The PC must talk to the tower operator in addition to the DDM/
MMO at the following tower controlled depots:
• Northumberland Park depot
• Stonebridge Park depot
• Upminster depot.
The PC must:
• get permission from the DDM/MMO to take the possession
• get the DDM/MMO to tell the tower, authorise the possession
and say you will be going to the tower
• tell the tower operator which road(s) will be under possession
• get the tower operator to arrange protection by collaring the
appropriate point switches
• check the protection arrangements protect the possession
• secure the appropriate points by scotch, clip and padlock.
When the possession is no longer required the PC must go to the
tower to give up the possession.
47section
7 Possession protection
7.24 Additional requirements for certain depots
The PC must refer to the relevant line supplement for additional
requirements for taking possessions in the following depots:
• Neasden depot (Metropolitan Line supplement)
• Stonebridge Park depot (Bakerloo Line supplement)
• Northumberland Park depot (Victoria Line supplement)
• Upminster depot (District Line supplement)
• Stratford Market depot (Jubilee Line supplement).
7.25 Using the Line Clear or Line Safe procedures
to implement and remove possession protection
and worksite controls
These arrangements utilise Line Clear or Line Safe procedures
to provide a method of implementing and removing possessions
protection and worksite controls during Engineering Hours.
These arrangements can be used to:
• allow trains and mechanised vehicles, if being used, to travel,
work, couple, uncouple, load and unload only when in a defined
worksite
• protect an increase to the possession area during Engineering
Hours, provided this is published and documented in the
possession plan
48section
Possession protection 7
• protect a decrease to the possession area during Engineering
Hours, the PC and TAC agree the arrangements.
At the relevant transition stages of this process, the PC must:
• confirm with the controller, signaller and TAC, as appropriate,
the possession arrangements and protection methods to be
used
• make sure all possession arrangements and protection methods
are implemented as and when required
• when circumstances require trains to remain secured within the
possession, ready for traction current to be switched on at the
start of Traffic Hours, tell the controller this information.
These arrangements must not be used, if:
• the possession will only be in force during a single period of
Engineering Hours
• it is planned for any traction current section in the Line Clear or
Line Safe area within the possession to remain switched on
• Engineering Hours are cancelled.
Where trains or mechanised vehicles (or both) are to be used or
moved whilst under these arrangements, they must not:
• enter or exit the possession
• move between the possession limit and a worksite
• enter or exit a worksite
• move between worksites.
All areas of track within the possession must be in the Line
Clear or Line Safe area.
49section
7 Possession protection
7.26 Implementation of the Line Clear or Line Safe
protection (Stage 1)
When permission is given to take the possession, the PC must
book the entire area published for the possession with the TAC.
The PC must make sure support staff:
• check and confirm that traction current has been switched off
from all traction current sections within each worksite, prior to
defining them
• define the limits for each worksite
• confirm back to the PC when this has been done.
7.27 Moving from Line Clear or Line Safe protection to
Traffic Hours protection (Stage 2)
When Traffic Hours protection has been implemented, the PC must
notify the TAC that these arrangements are no longer required.
The PC must tell the POSM that Traffic Hours protection has been
implemented and these arrangements have been removed, the
POSM must:
• tell the PWT-PW/SPC and the manager of the ETO this
information
• make sure the requirements for normal possession
arrangements apply.
Possession limit markers and traction current gap markers are
not required to be placed on the track at this stage.
During this stage, possession limit markers and traction
current gap markers will need to be placed on the track.
50section
Possession protection 7
While under these arrangements, in the event of failure to
implement Traffic Hours protection before the start of Traffic
Hours, LSP must be implemented.
7.28 Moving from Traffic Hours protection to Line Clear
or Line Safe protection (Stage 3)
The PC must book the entire area published for the possession
with the TAC.
Before Traffic Hours protection is removed and before these
arrangements are implemented, the POSM must:
• tell the PWT-PW/SPC and the manager of the ETO this
information
• make sure the requirements for these arrangements apply.
When the controller gives authority, you can remove Traffic Hours
protection.
The possession will remain protected using these arrangements
and at this stage, the possession limit markers and traction current
gap markers, can be removed from the track.
7.29 Removing the Line Clear or Line Safe protection
arrangements
When the possession is no longer required and all work is
complete, the PC must pass a site clear/site safe message to the
TAC. In the event of work overrunning, LSP must be implemented.
If necessary, the possession area protected by these arrangements
can be reduced to provide a later call back time and/or to minimise
the impact on the start of Traffic Hours in the event of work over –
running.
Engineer’s trains unable to leave the possession can remain
secured within the possession, ready for traction current to be
switched on at the start of Traffic Hours.
51section
7 Possession protection
7.30 Tracks in depots and sidings that are not protected
by Line Clear or Line Safe procedures
In circumstances where an area of the possession is required to
include tracks in depots and sidings which are outside the Line
Clear or Line Safe area, it is acceptable to use these arrangements
provided the following conditions are met:
• the arrangements are planned and published
• the accountable person for the tracks concerned has given
agreement for this to happen
• the appropriate control measures are implemented to prevent
unwanted train movements and traction current switching on
the tracks concerned
• the PC must retain the acceptance of the accountable person
for track in depots and sidings for continued use of the agreed
protection methods in the depots or sidings, if and when
appropriate
• where any possession is protected using these arrangements
in conjunction with another Rule Book method, all of these
arrangements must apply.
52section
Possession isolation 8
8 Possession isolation
8.1 Traction current arrangements
Traction current can be switched off, or special traction current
arrangements might be required, for a possession on the running
line, depot or stabling siding. It must be decided at the possession
planning meeting which traction current section(s) will be affected,
and what special traction current arrangements are required. All
traction current arrangements must be published in the Engineering
Notice Look Ahead or the Engineering Notice (or both).
8.2 Special current arrangements
If part of a track within a traction current section has to have
traction current switched off, special traction current arrangements
will have to be made. This might involve the opening of section
switches, installing temporary gaps, and so on. These arrangements
must not be made until the method of protecting the possession is
in place.
When protecting a possession, there must not be a substation gap,
or other traction current rail gap of less than 15m within the signal
overlap of the protection signal to avoid a train bridging the gap and
causing traction current to flow on to an isolated section. Creating
the 15m gap might have to be done by one, or a combination of
the following:
• opening section switches
• removing cables
• cutting or removing the traction current rails
• using temporary section switches.
Where reference is made to a 15m gap, this means a
‘nominal’ 15m’s. The original distance for an isolation gap
was 48 ft which equates to 14.63m. Any existing gaps
measuring between 14.63m and 15m do not need to be
extended to 15m.
53section
8 Possession isolation
8.3 Making special traction current arrangements
Special traction current arrangements and isolations must be made
by a competent engineer (electrical) using approved methods.
Traction current can be left switched on if special traction current
arrangements using the following are made:
• isolating switches
• changeover switches
• section switches.
So far as reasonably practicable, traction current must be switched
off when switches are being operated to minimise risk.
Traction current must be switched off when the following are
made:
• special traction current arrangements
• physical removal or replacement of cables and bonds.
8.4 Changes in status between ‘live’ and ‘dead’
traction current conductor rails
Where there is a combination of ‘live’ or ‘dead’ sections, and there
are no moving engineer’s trains or mechanised vehicles within
any part of the possession, a warning marker must be secured to
the running rail in the four foot to warn personnel that the status
of traction current on the traction current rails has changed, for
example, from ‘live’ to ‘dead’ or ‘dead’ to ‘live’.
If an engineer’s train can approach the gap between ‘live’ and ‘dead’
sections from either direction (for example, an engineer’s train
leaving a possession):
• a warning marker must be secured to the running rail in the ‘four
foot’
• one detonator must be secured to the running rail at the marker.
54section
Possession isolation 8
Consideration must be given to the practicalities of placing
markers and detonators (if required) at the traction current gap
marker in single track tube tunnels. If it is not practicable to
place the markers, an appropriate worded notice must be shown
at the station headwall and the details must be specified in the
possession plan.
8.5 Short circuits
A short circuit must be used to reduce the risk of traction current
from ‘livening’ up a possession, as agreed at the possession
planning meeting.
One or more short circuits must be used during a possession
when:
• traction current is switched off, and gaps in the current rail of at
least 15m are not provided
• a possession extends into Traffic Hours
• a possession overruns into Traffic Hours
• temporary changes to traction current feeding arrangements
have been made to a section of track within a possession.
Consideration must be given at the possession planning meeting on
how the short circuit will be created. Where it is not practicable to
use an SCD, for example if the SCD could be displaced by moving
trains or track trolleys, alternative means of creating a short circuit
must be considered. This could be by using cables clamped to the
underside of the traction current rails and routed under the running
rails.
Where an SCD is not being used to create a short circuit, for
example, by cables clamped to the traction current rails, this must
be done by an engineer (electrical). Where an SCD is being used to
create a short circuit this must be done by a competent person.
The locations of where short circuits are to be created and who will
do this must be shown in the possession plan.
55section
8 Possession isolation
The PC must:
• make sure traction current has been switched off before giving
authorisation for short circuits to be created and SCD’s to be
placed on the track
• provide the protection staff, with an SCD, at the start of a
possession
• tell the controller that short circuits have been placed and
SCD’s have been placed on the track
• record the time and location where short circuits and SCD’s
were placed or removed
• receive the SCD’s from the competent person at the end of a
possession and arrange for them to be returned to where they
were supplied.
The engineer (electrical) is responsible for providing the approved
equipment or material for short circuits being created other than by
using an SCD.
The PC must make sure support staff:
• check traction current has been switched off from the traction
current section(s) concerned before creating the short circuit or
placing an SCD(s) on the track
• remove the short circuit or SCD(s) when told by the PC
• record the time and location the short circuit was created or
removed or the SCD(s) were placed or removed
• report all the actions to the PC.
8.6 Positioning short circuiting devices on the track
The location of short circuits and SCD’s must be within the area
under possession. If there is:
• no substation gap within a possession, SCD’s must be placed as
close as possible to both ends of the possession
56section
Possession isolation 8 • one or more substation gaps within a possession, short circuits
must be created or SCD’s must be placed immediately either
side of the substation gap in addition to both ends of the
possession.
Short circuits must not be created and SCD’s must not be placed:
• where traction current is switched on
• where conductor or running rail fixtures or fittings can prevent
its correct use
• under or over a set of points
• where there are out of gauge rails
• on a traction current section where it is planned to carry out
traction current switching arrangements during a possession.
Short circuit and SCD’s must be removed before the switching
arrangements are removed.
Possession isolation
57section
9 Depot isolations
9 Depot isolations
9.1 Switching traction current off and on from or to
overhead trolley feeds
The PC must ask the DDM/MMO to arrange for a competent person
to carry out the necessary arrangements when a possession has
been taken on a shed road and traction current has to be switched
off and on from or to overhead trolley feeds.
58section
Possession demarcation 10
10 Possession demarcation
10.1 Traction current gap marker
Traction current gap markers are placed on the track to warn personnel
when the status of traction current changes, for example, from
switched on to switched off.
10.2 Possession limit marker
A possession limit marker is placed on the track at the extremities of
the possession to inform personnel that they are entering or leaving a
possession. Where space is limited and it is not practicable to place a
protection block and possession limit marker, the possession limit and
protection block will be defined by using a possession limit marker.
This must be agreed at the possession planning meeting and included
in the possession plan. A temporary sign indicating the dual purpose
of the marker must be displayed on the marker covering the existing
wording.
When train movements are involved a single detonator will be
placed adjacent to the traction current marker board.
59section
10 Possession demarcation
10.3 Worksite limit marker boards
Possession worksites are demarcated using standard worksite limit
marker boards, which have a red sign with the words ‘Entering
Worksite’ on one side and ‘Leaving Worksite’ on the other. The boards
have a flashing light on top showing a red aspect facing into the
worksite and red aspect facing out of the worksite. The markers are
secured to the running rail by clamp and padlocked (if required).
When multiple worksites are planned in a possession, each individual
worksite must be clearly demarcated. This is to ensure:
• there is clear visibility on site regarding areas of control
• there is additional protection for the work group against the risk of
moving vehicles outside of the worksite area
• demarcation equipment must be placed at all locations where
engineer’s trains, vehicles and personnel could enter or leave the
worksite.
When engineer’s trains and vehicles are working within a worksite the
worksites will also require the use of detonators (which are fixed to
the crown of the rail). A red lamp(s) is placed to warn an approaching
engineer’s train/ mechanised vehicle operators of a worksite limit.
The old style boards have a flashing light on top showing a red
aspect facing into the worksite and yellow aspect facing out of
the worksite.
60section
Briefings 11
11 Briefings
11.1 Staff briefings
The MCP/EIC must identify and brief staff on the tasks involved in
the possession and the worksite protection arrangements, before
the possession begins. The activities and tasks to be briefed
include:
• PC
• POSM
• support staff
• engineer (signal)
• engineer (electrical)
• PWT-PW / TM / PWT-TM.
Any other activity or task involved with:
• setting up, maintaining and removing the possession protection
and worksite(s)
• the control of engineer’s trains and mechanised vehicles in a
worksite(s).
11.2 Possession protection briefings
The PC must hold briefings with those involved with setting up and
protecting the possession, including the:
• POSM
• support staff
• engineer (electrical)
• engineer (signal)
• PWT-PW / TM / PWT-TM (if appropriate).
61section
11 Briefings
11.3 Safety briefings
The PC must give safety briefings before:
• implementing the possession protection method(s)
• implementing traction current arrangements
• placing the various blocks and markers
• taking the possession
• removing traction current arrangements
• removing the various markers and blocks
• removing the possession protection method(s)
• giving up the possession.
The PC must make sure the safety briefing contents include:
• limits of possession
• routes to and from the worksites
• places of safety
• emergency arrangements
• any other relevant safety information.
Depending on the complexity of the arrangements for protecting
the possession, you might need to consider providing support staff
with check lists.
If additional safety briefings are required they will be agreed at the
possession planning meeting.
62section
Briefings 11 The PC must verify that the POSM and PWT-PW/SPC have the
correct possession plan reference number, check they hold relevant
and valid certification and licences, and confirm their respective
locations and contact telephone numbers. The PC must hold a
briefing with the POSM and PWT-PW/SPC to confirm the following:
• possession limits
• possession protection arrangements
• details of any engineer’s trains or mechanised vehicle
movements into and out of the possession, and details
• of additional protection procedures which will be used, if
required
• details of when and where traction current will be switched
off and on, and the traction current sections concerned (if
required).
The PC will hold a briefing with the support staff undertaking the
following possession protection tasks, the:
• placing of the protection block, possession limit markers and
traction current gap markers
• securing of points
• safe movement of trains and mechanical vehicles
• implementation of special traction current arrangements and
creation of short circuits
• checking of traction current
• maintaining of signals at danger.
The POSM is responsible for briefings up to the worksites.
Briefings
63section
12 Communication
12 Communication
All safety critical communication must be:
• accurate
• brief
• clear.
12.1 Giving and receiving messages
You must make sure:
• you are talking to the right person and that person knows who
you are
• you lead and control the conversation, depending on who you
are talking to
• the message is clear, accurate, and to the point
• you repeat back all safety related information or actions to be
carried out
• you record details in the logbook or your notebook (where
applicable).
12.2 Using numbers
When using numbers 10 and over in a message, you must say them
one at a time.
For example, ‘Train 123’ must be spoken as ‘Train one two three’
not ‘Train one hundred and twenty three’.
You must also say the number ‘0’ as ‘zero’.
Always make sure that the message has been received and
understood.
64section
Communication 12
When signals, points, train descriptions or locations have similar
names or numbers (for example, signals A 114 and A 314 on
adjacent lines), you must take great care not to cause confusion.
You do not need to quote numbers separately when you refer
to time, for example, the time 13.17 hours should be stated as
‘thirteen seventeen’.
12.3 Using communication equipment
You must:
• make sure your speech is clear, accurate and to the point
• use normal railway terms and phrases found in the rules and
other instructions
• use the phonetic alphabet
• say numbers one at a time and not all together.
When using a radio or telephone, you must always:
• speak slightly slower than you would in normal conversation,
but at the same volume
• try to avoid hesitation sounds (for example, ‘umm’, ‘err’) and
slurring one word into another.
When using a radio or telephone, you must not:
• interrupt transmissions unless in an emergency
• use offensive language
• make unnecessary calls or transmissions
• use any radio within 15 metres of a suspect package.
65section
12 Communication
12.4 Phonetic alphabet
When giving a message, you must use the phonetic alphabet
to identify letters of the alphabet to spell words and place
names that are difficult to pronounce. This is important to avoid
misunderstanding.
A Alpha Q Quebec
B Bravo R Romeo
C Charlie S Sierra
D Delta T Tango
E Echo K Kilo U Uniform
F Foxtrot L Lima V Victor
G Golf M Mike W Whiskey
H Hotel N November X X-ray
I India O Oscar Y Yankee
J Juliet P Papa Z Zulu
For example, ‘Angel’ would be spelt out as ‘Alpha, November, Golf,
Echo, Lima’.
12.5 Documentation and records
The PC must record information in their log book for:
• key conversations
• times for key events.
All telephone conversations must be audio recorded for all
possessions:
• involving special traction current arrangements
• train movements
• and retained for 28 days.
66section
Setting up the possession 13
13 Setting up the possession
The PC must get permission from the TAC (if applicable), controller
or DDM/MMO (whichever is appropriate) to take the possession
and confirm:
• the method(s) of protection to be used
• when traction current must be switched off and from what
traction current section(s), if required before the possession can
be taken.
If permission is not given for any reason the PC must:
• not allow the possession to be taken
• immediately tell the MCP/EIC.
The PC must get written permission (a permit to work) from the
DDM/MMO before taking a possession in any depot.
The PC does not have authority to take the possession until given
permission by the controller or DDM/MMO. Once the PC has been
given permission by the controller or DDM/MMO (whichever is
applicable), the PC must ask the relevant signaller for permission to
use the appropriate protection method(s).
When a possession starts in Engineering Hours the PC must book
the traction current sections concerned with the TAC. Where a
possession has started in Traffic Hours the PC must give the details
when the TAC comes on duty.
For a possession continuing over several Engineering Hours shifts,
the PC must contact the TAC at the start of each shift to confirm
the published arrangements.
If a PC is relieving another PC at a change of shift, the PC coming
on shift must give their details to the controller.
67section
13 Setting up the possession
13.1 Getting traction current switched off
When the signaller has given permission, the PC must ask the
controller to:
• switch off the traction current sections concerned
• confirm when this has been done.
When told by the controller that traction current has been
switched off the PC must:
• arrange for the traction current sections concerned to be
checked
• confirm that traction current has been switched off, using a
CRID.
If a traction current section has not been checked by support staff,
the PC must:
• arrange for a competent person to do so before the worksite
limit markers are placed
• get agreement with the POSM and confirm by who and when
this will be done.
Special traction current arrangements or the creation of short
circuits must not be carried out until the possession protection has
been put in place.
Where blocks and markers are being placed on a traction
current section(s), the support staff placing the blocks and
markers can do this.
68section
Setting up the possession 13
13.2 Putting the possession protection in place
When the signaller has given the PC permission to implement the
protection method and has received confirmation that traction
current has been switched off from all traction current sections
within the possession (as appropriate), the PC must tell the support
staff or engineer (signal) (or both) to put the possession protection
in place, and confirm when they have done this.
13.3 Implementing special traction current
arrangements
When the controller has confirmed traction current has been
switched off, the engineer (electrical) must carry out the special
traction current arrangements using the approved method.
When the protection methods have been implemented, the PC
must tell the engineer (electrical):
• the methods of protecting the possession are in place
• that any engineer’s trains associated with the possession are in
place
• to make any agreed additional traction current arrangements
and short circuits.
At this point support staff can place SCD’s at the locations agreed
in the possession plan.
13.4 Placing possession and traction current markers
Before support staff place the protection block, possession limit
and traction current gap markers the PC must tell them:
• to check traction current
• to place markers at the relevant locations
The PC must tell the TAC (if applicable) when SCD’s and
short circuits have been placed/created.
69section
13 Setting up the possession
• any other information relating to placing the markers
• to tell the PC when this has been done.
13.5 When the possession has been taken
The PC must tell the controller or DDM/MMO:
• method(s) of protection have been implemented
• traction current arrangements have been implemented
• all blocks and markers have been placed
• the possession has now been taken.
13.6 Defining worksite limits (if applicable)
The PC must tell the POSM:
• all blocks and markers have been placed
• traction current has been checked and confirmed as switched
off
• worksite limits can now be defined.
The only time it is necessary for a limit to be staffed is when:
• it is being placed in position at the time the limit is being
established
• the limit is being removed
• an engineer’s train or vehicle is being passed through a limit
with the appropriate authorisation.
Support staff can be briefed on these arrangements as part
of the possession protection briefing.
Any additional traction current sections that have not been
checked, must bed checked by the PSOM.
70section
Engineer’s trains entering a possession 14
14 Engineer’s trains entering a possession
An engineer’s train can be passed into a possession where
protection is being provided by maintaining a signal at danger,
either:
• by passing the signal at danger and the train’s trip cock being
activated by the train stop and continuing under ‘normal’ rules,
• by isolating the train’s trip cock and passing the signal at
danger with additional mitigation, a second person in the cab
to provide a second pair of eyes to assist in identifying the
protection block (if not placed at the signal) or possession limit
marker and stop the train if they consider the ETO will not stop
the train in time.
14.1 Agreeing the details for an engineer’s train to enter
a possession
Before an engineer’s train enters a possession, the PC must agree
the timings and process for the passage of each engineer’s train
with the:
• controller
• DDM/MMO, (if required)
• POSM.
The PC must agree the point at which the responsibility for the
movement of the engineer’s train transfers between the PC and:
• controller or DDM/MMO, as appropriate
• POSM.
The following must be replaced immediately after the passage of
the engineer’s train:
• protection method
• protection block
• possession limit marker
71section
14 Engineer’s trains entering a possession
• traction current gap marker
• worksite limit marker.
Where multiple engineer’s trains are following at close intervals,
from a ‘stack’ of engineer’s trains outside the possession; it might
not be practicable to replace the method, block and markers
between each engineer’s train.
Before an engineer’s train enters a possession, the PC must make
sure that all personnel working within the possession, who will be
affected, must:
• be told of the engineer’s train movement
• move to a place of safety to let the engineer’s train pass.
The POSM must make sure the ETO is aware of the arrangements
for the engineer’s train movement, after it has entered the
possession.
14.2 Transfer of responsibility for the engineer’s train
When the engineer’s train arrives at the point at which the
responsibility for its movement transfers from the controller or
DDM/MMO to the PC, the PC must formally accept responsibility
for the engineer’s train.
The PC must make sure the ETO is aware of the:
• transfer of responsibility
• requirement to take instructions from the support staff
responsible for the protection block, possession limit marker
and traction current gap marker.
In these circumstances a safe system of controlling the
movement of the engineer’s trains, into and through the
possession, must be agreed at the possession planning
meeting.
72section
Engineer’s trains entering a possession 14
The PC must tell the POSM the engineer’s train has arrived at the
protection block and gain authority for the engineer’s train to enter
the possession.
14.3 Getting permission for an engineer’s train to enter
a possession
The PC must get permission from the POSM to allow the engineer’s
train to enter the possession. When it is safe to do so and the
necessary arrangements have been put in place, the POSM must
tell the PC to allow the engineer’s train to enter the possession.
14.4 An engineer’s train entering the possession
Before an engineer’s train enters the possession the PC must tell
the support staff to:
• lift the protection block
• tell the ETO, not to move their train until shown a handsignal
displaying a yellow aspect when they can move the train to the
possession limit marker and await further instructions
• secure points in the correct direction of travel, if required
• remove the protection block marker
• show the ETO a handsignal displaying a yellow aspect
• wait for the engineer’s train to pass the protection block
• replace the protection block, if required
• tell the PC the engineer’s train has passed the protection block.
14.5 Transfer of responsibility for the engineer’s train
The PC must tell the POSM, once they have received confirmation
that the engineer’s train has entered the possession. The POSM will
take over the responsibility of the engineer’s train and authorise all
movements of the engineer’s train within the possession from the
possession limit marker(s) and worksite and between worksites.
73section
14 Engineer’s trains entering a possession
When an engineer’s train has stopped at the possession limit
marker, the PC must ask the POSM for permission to allow the
engineer’s train to pass the possession limit marker. The POSM will
tell support staff responsible for the possession limit marker to
allow the engineer’s train to pass the possession limit marker.
14.6 Passing the possession limit marker
Where the possession limit marker and traction current gap markers
are placed side by side at the same location, the possession plan
must cover the arrangements for an engineer’s train passing both
types of marker.
When the POSM has given permission for the engineer’s train to
pass the possession limit marker the support staff must:
• tell the ETO, not to move their train until shown a handsignal
displaying a yellow aspect when they can move the train to the
traction current gap marker and await further instructions
• secure and unsecure points, if required
• remove the possession limit marker.
When the possession limit marker has been lifted, the support
staff must:
• show the ETO a handsignal displaying a yellow aspect
• wait for the engineer’s train to proceed past the possession
limit marker
• replace the possession limit marker
• tell the POSM that the engineer’s train has passed the
possession limit marker.
74section
Engineer’s trains entering a possession 14 14.7 Passing the traction current gap marker
When the ETO confirms that they are ready to pass the traction
current gap marker the support staff must:
• tell the ETO, not to move the train until shown a handsignal
displaying a yellow aspect and then to move the train to the
worksite limit marker and await further instructions
• secure and unsecure points (if required).
Once the traction current gap marker has been lifted, the support
staff must:
• remove the traction current gap marker
• show the ETO a handsignal displaying a yellow aspect
• wait for the engineer’s train to pass over the traction current
gap marker
• replace the traction current gap marker
• tell the POSM the engineer’s train has passed the traction
current gap marker.
14.8 Passing into the worksite
The POSM will arrange for the engineer’s train to be passed into the
worksite, after liaising with the PWT-PW/SPC.
14.9 Engineer’s trains working within a possession with
traction current on
If an engineer’s train has to work within a possession and traction
current is to remain switched on, the PC must arrange to assemble
the support staff for a safety briefing to tell them:
• the working limits
• details of additional protection procedures that will be used
• details of when and where traction current will be switched off
and on.
Engineer’s trains entering a possession
75section
15 Engineer’s trains leaving the possession
15 Engineer’s trains leaving the possession
When an engineer’s train is leaving a possession, the PC and POSM
must both agree:
• the timings and process for the passage of each engineer’s train
• the point at which the responsibility for the movement of the
engineer’s train transfers from the POSM to the PC
• when the engineer’s train can leave the worksite.
Responsibility for the movement of the engineer’s train will transfer
between the POSM and the PC at the possession limit marker.
When an engineer’s train is ready to leave the possession the
POSM must tell the support staff responsible for worksite, traction
current gap and possession limit markers, that an engineer’s train
will be leaving the possession and to be ready to lift their markers
when the POSM tells them.
15.1 Passing the traction current gap marker
When the ETO is ready to pass the traction current gap marker,
support staff must tell the ETO:
• not to move the train until shown a handsignal displaying a
yellow aspect, it can then be moved to the possession limit
marker
• to await further instructions, on arrival at the possession limit
marker.
Support staff must also:
• secure and unsecure points (if required)
• remove the traction current gap marker.
When the traction current gap marker has been lifted, the support
staff must:
• show the ETO a handsignal displaying a yellow aspect
76section
Engineer’s trains leaving the possession 15
• wait for the engineer’s train to pass over the traction current
gap marker
• replace the traction current gap marker
• tell the POSM the engineer’s train has passed the traction
current gap marker.
15.2 Transfer of responsibility for the engineer’s train
Once the engineer’s train has reached the possession limit marker,
the POSM must transfer the responsibility for movement of the
engineer’s train to the PC. The POSM must also make sure the ETO
is aware of the transfer of responsibility and to take instructions
from support staff responsible for the possession limit marker.
The following must be replaced immediately after the passage of
the engineer’s train:
• possession limit marker
• traction current gap marker
• worksite limit marker.
Where multiple engineer’s trains are following at close intervals
from outside the possession; it might not be practicable to replace
the protection block and markers between each engineer’s train.
The PC must not allow an engineer’s train to leave the possession
without the permission of the controller.
In these circumstances a safe system of controlling the
movement of the engineer’s trains, into and through the
possession, must be agreed at the possession planning
meeting.
77section
15 Engineer’s trains leaving the possession
15.3 Getting permission for the engineer’s train to leave
the possession
When responsibility for the movement of the engineer’s train has
passed from the POSM to the PC, the PC must:
• tell the controller the engineer’s train is ready to leave the
possession
• agree the location where the responsibility for the movement of
the engineer’s train transfers from the PC to the controller
• receive permission from the controller for the engineer’s train
to leave the possession when the signaller gives authority.
The controller must tell the signaller that:
• they have given permission for an engineer’s train to leave the
possession
• the PC will contact you when the engineer’s train is ready to
leave the possession and enter the operational railway.
The controller must tell the PC, to:
• let the engineer’s train(s) out of the possession where
appropriate
• contact the signaller when the engineer’s train is ready to leave
the possession.
When it is safe to do so and the necessary arrangements have
been put in place, the signaller must tell the PC that the engineer’s
train(s) can leave the possession and go on to the operational
railway.
When the signaller has given authority, the PC must tell the support
staff responsible for the possession limit marker to allow the
engineer’s train(s) to pass and leave the possession.
78section
Engineer’s trains leaving the possession 15
Where multiple engineer’s trains are following at close intervals
from outside the possession; it might not be practicable to replace
the protection block and markers between each engineer’s train.
The PC must tell the support staff to:
• tell the ETO(s) not to move their train until shown a handsignal
displaying a yellow aspect
• remove the possession limit marker.
When the possession limit marker has been lifted, to:
• show the ETO a handsignal displaying a yellow aspect
• wait for the engineer’s train(s) to proceed past the possession
limit marker
• replace the possession limit marker
• tell the PC that the engineer’s train(s) has passed the possession
limit marker.
15.4 When the engineer’s train has left the possession
When the PC has received confirmation that the engineer’s train
has passed the possession limit marker and that the possession
limit marker has been replaced, (if required), they must:
• tell the controller that the engineer’s train has left the
possession.
• transfer responsibility for the movement of the engineer’s train
to the controller
• arrange for the ETO to be told that responsibility for movement
has transferred to the controller and to follow instructions for
movement from the signaller.
In these circumstances a safe system of controlling the
movement of the engineer’s trains, into and through the
possession, must be agreed at the possession planning
meeting.
79section
15 Engineer’s trains leaving the possession
15.5 An engineer’s train being passed between a
possession and an adjacent specified area
If an engineer’s train is being passed between a possession and an
adjacent specified area, the PC must:
• make sure there are relevant support staff assigned to the
engineer’s train
• make sure personnel on the track are protected as appropriate
• authorise the engineer’s train to enter or leave the possession
from or into the adjacent specified area.
If traction current is switched on within the possession, support
staff assigned to the engineer’s train must get confirmation from
the ETO that the isolation arrangements on the engineer’s train
have been carried out, before allowing it to cross from, or into the
specified area.
15.6 Mechanised vehicles entering or leaving a
possession
Mechanised vehicles that do not conform to the definition of a
train can only enter or leave a possession:
• by means of a level access adjacent on or off-tracking site
• by being lifted in from, or off from an adjacent location
• from or into an adjacent specified area
• by other means not involving movement on the operational
railway.
80section
Engineer’s trains leaving the possession 15 15.7 A mechanised vehicle being passed between a
possession and an adjacent specified area
If a mechanised vehicle is being passed between a possession and
an adjacent specified area, the PC must:
• make sure there are relevant support staff assigned to the
mechanised vehicle
• make sure personnel on the track are protected as appropriate
• authorise the mechanised vehicle to enter or leave the
possession from or into the adjacent specified area.
If a mechanised vehicle can operate on traction current which is
switched on within the possession and support staff are assigned
to the mechanised vehicle, they must get confirmation from the
mechanised vehicle operator that the isolation arrangements on
the mechanised vehicle have been carried out, before allowing it to
cross from, or into the specified area.
15.8 Mechanised vehicle on-tracking into a possession
Arrangements for allowing mechanised vehicles to on or off-track
into or out of a possession must be covered in the possession
plan.
Engineer’s trains leaving the possession
81section
16 Planned or emergency work within a possession
16 Planned or emergency work within a
possession
Before planned or emergency work it to take place between the
possession limit markers, the PC must agree with:
• the requestor
• POSM
• MCP/EIC.
The work must be carried out within a defined worksite and under
the control of a PWT-PW/SPC, who must keep the POSM informed
at all times.
If planned work specified in the possession plan or emergency work
is to take place between the protection block and possession limit
marker, the PC must agree in advance of the work commencing
with the requestor, TAC (in Engineering Hours) or controller (in
Traffic Hours) and the MCP/EIC that work can commence.
82section
Failure to finish work or possession on time 17 17 Failure to finish work or possession on
time
If the work cannot be finished within the planned time, the POSM
must, at the earliest opportunity, tell:
• the PC
• MCP/EIC
• other PWT-PW/SPC.
The POSM must follow the procedures detailed in the possession
plan. If circumstances have changed, and it is not possible to
implement the procedures in the possession plan, the POSM must
immediately tell the MCP/EIC.
The POSM must give details of which worksite cannot finish the
work within the planned time and the revised completion time.
As soon as the PC is informed of work not being able to be finished
at the planned time, the PC must tell the:
• controller or DDM/MMO
• TAC
• service manager and duty operations engineer.
Failure to finish work or possession on time
83section
18 Giving up the worksites
18 Giving up the worksites
The POSM must instruct the appropriate staff to remove any
protection for the worksites when they have received confirmation
from the PWT-PW/SPC for each worksite that:
• the work has finished
• the assets are safe to use
• uncertificated staff are clear of the track, and
• any certificated staff remaining on site are suitably protected.
The POSM will immediately tell the PC and MCP/EIC if any asset
within a worksite has a restriction of use as a result of work
undertaken during the possession.
When the POSM has received confirmation that the worksite
protection has been removed, that each worksite is clear of staff
and it is safe for trains to run, you must tell the PC and MCP/EIC
that worksite protection has been given up and that it is safe for
trains to run.
84section
Starting the process of giving up the possession 19
19 Starting the process of giving up the
possession
Once the PC has received confirmation from the POSM, the PC
must tell the TAC and gain authority from the controller or DDM/
MMO to start the process of giving up the possession.
19.1 Removing the protection block, possession limit
and traction current gap markers
The PC must tell support staff to:
• remove the possession limit and traction current markers at the
relevant locations
• remove the protection block, but not the method
• any other information relating to removing the markers
• tell the PC when this has been done.
19.2 Removing special traction current arrangements
Before the special traction current arrangements are removed the
PC must make sure all tools, materials, plant and equipment are
removed from the track.
When removing special traction current arrangements, (that is
closing section switches), that will result in a traction current
section being fully or partially livened up, or having to be switched
on before the possession is given up, the PC must confirm with the
POSM that personnel within any affected possession worksite are:
• warned of this
The PC must tell the controller or DDM/MMO (or both)
immediately if any asset within a worksite has a restriction of
use as a result of work undertaken during the possession.
Starting the process of giving up the possession
85section
19
• if remaining on the track are suitably certificated and protected.
If the affected area is outside of a worksite, the PC must make sure
that the support staff are made aware that traction current will be
on when they remove blocks, markers and the protection method.
When confirmation is received or all staff have been warned the PC
must tell the engineer (electrical) to:
• remove the special traction current arrangements
• tell the PC when this has been done.
If the TAC is on duty, the PC must pass this information to them
when giving up the possession.
19.3 Removing the short circuit
The short circuit and SCD’s must be removed before the protection
is given up, and before traction current is switched back on to the
traction current section(s) concerned.
19.4 Giving up the possession
When all the possession protection and markers have been
removed but before traction current is switched on, the PC must
tell the controller or DDM/MMO that:
• all worksite markers and protection have been removed
• all possession markers and protection have been removed
• all staff and equipment are clear of the track
• the track is clear and it is safe to run trains
• traction current can be switched on to the traction current
sections concerned (if required)
• they are giving up the possession.
The PC must wait for confirmation from the controller or DDM/
MMO that traction current has been switched on to the traction
current sections concerned (if required).
86section
References 9 20 References
Rule Book 1 Communications
Rule Book 3 Traction current and high voltage supply
Rule Book 14 Possessions planning and management
Rule Book 15 Possessions protection methods
Rule Book 16 Going on the track in Engineering Hours
Rule Book 18 Engineer’s trains, vehicles’ and trolleys
Rule Book 20 Engineering staff – Traffic Hours protection
Rule Book 21 Personal safety on the track
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
References Notes