Safe system of work: Moving rail vehicles

Control Measure Knowledge

Personnel should not come within 3m of moving rail vehicles; if the distance needs to be reduced, rail vehicles should be run at caution or stopped. There may be exceptional circumstances, for example the need to carry out life-saving activities prior to rail vehicles being stopped; any rescue activity such as this should be subject to a risk assessment.

To avoid being affected by the air turbulence created by moving rail vehicles, personnel should stand 3m away from the tracks, with their back to the tracks, and on stable ground. Most station platforms will have lines marked on them, which personnel should stand behind to avoid air turbulence from passing rail vehicles.

As it could cause an obstruction, any fire and rescue service equipment taken to the track should be kept to a minimum and removed before any rail vehicle approaches.

Strategic Actions

Tactical Actions