InstItutIon of RaIlway opeRatoRs membeR news, vIews & events
ERTMS: COMING TO A RAILWAY NEAR YOU… Ron Bailes and Paul LeVesconte provide this guide for operators and point you to all the further information you may need to get ready for the big changes ahead! the european Rail traffic management system (eRtms) is being rolled out across europe and indeed many other parts of the world. eRtms was designed as a standard product for the european network and most applications have been to ‘new build’ high speed lines. Retrofit – where eRtms is applied alongside existing signalling or replaces existing signalling - is a relatively new concept and Great britain is in the vanguard to develop operational requirements and operating rules that enable safe and efficient operation. In Gb, the application of eRtms will form the keystone in the development and application of new technologies and support the introduction of the Digital Railway. the Cambrian line early Deployment scheme has been the first application of the system in Gb and a national rollout of the system will shortly commence with a level 2 overlay (eRtms working alongside existing signalling) on the Great western main line and (with the exception of the first six miles) a level 2 ‘signals away’ (eRtms replaces existing signalling) application on the east Coast main line. Deploying eRtms to the Gb railway will provide opportunities to provide considerable safety, performance and financial benefits, so much so that it is clear to see why eRtms is the signalling system which is fast becoming a global standard and is the choice for the future. However, here is some food for thought:
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from the operators’ perspective, the deployment of eRtms is not just a signalling renewal scheme. It represents a massive change to the entire operating philosophy of the railway network. Inevitably during migration between old and new, there will be varying degrees of knowledge and experience across the community of operators. It is therefore vitally important to ensure that people are supported and armed with the experience of the Cambrian operation, in order that we maintain a high level of safe operation throughout the transitory period of scheme rollouts. the national eRtms programme (nep) is currently developing a reference design for how the system will be applied in the various lines of routes. this work has proved to be extremely challenging, generally because of a Gb lack of experience in operating an eRtms railway and the very few operators with the requisite knowledge of the system specification. However, the Cambrian experience has proved to have been a highly successful means of gaining experience and advantage has been taken to maximise lessons learned from the operators of that route.
the development of the operational requirements starts with the operational experts from the affected routes working alongside network Rail signalling engineers. the concept is that the operator describes how the railway will be used and to seek common ways of how to do things, but to allow for variants. using this methodology, it is possible to map the current operating railway onto an eRtms railway and to enable the engineers to extract the operating requirements and to establish the application design. the application design is route specific and is the key to maximising the 4 C benefits Cost – Carbon – Capacity – Customer. However, the devil really is in the detail. there are no ‘workarounds’ with the design. If there is no signalled route for movements, it is very difficult to carry out an operation since every movement is protected. this had proved extremely challenging to the engineers and operators and has forced a considerable amount of lateral thinking about the manner in which we do things. time and time again during the build and examination of operational scenarios, bi-directional signalling has proved to be a pre-requisite in order to gain efficiencies and to support degraded operation.
02 eRtms continued…
through the work that has been undertaken by the programme, it has become very clear that developing knowledge and skill sets within the industry will be vital to the continuum of safe and efficient operation. as well as frontline operating staff, including maintainers and contractors, a second area will be that of Incident Investigation. In the event of an incident or accident, members of the Railway Group and their contractors are obliged to produce certain data and to provide access to other information as required according to the nature and level of the investigation. with the addition of eRtms this will include data logged on the train in the Juridical Recorder unit (JRu) and the data from the trackside Radio block Centre (RbC); this in its own right will generate the need for unique skill sets. taking it to a higher level, knowledge of the system will be a pre-requisite for panel members of internal railway inquiries, whether within one railway company, or a number of companies, formal Railway Group Inquiries, which are generally controlled by network Rail and even the secretary of state for the Department of transport and the oRR will need to upskill to meet the philosophical changes that lie ahead. the nep is developing training material and briefings for the industry, covering all the skills required for eRtms across both network Rail, train/freight operators and Contractors. as part of this process a new web site, eRtms online has been set up by the nep to keep users updated on the latest information and developments. the IRo has become actively involved in this process, working with atoC, (who are represented within the nep) to create a new section to the IRo learn programme. this
HOW TO FIND THE IRO ERTMS EDUCATION PROGRAMME WEBPAGE simply navigate to www.irolearn.co.uk/ERTMS - here you will find video content of the two part presentation that was delivered to the Rssb late last year. It explains not only about the introduction of eRtms and the changes it will bring, but goes on to describe how its systems function and the effects it will have on fleet, infrastructure and rail operations.
is a web based application that allows members and industry staff to learn more about eRtms through the nep educations days. atoC have run a series of education days on behalf of the nep. this is a full day session covering the origins of eRtms, the system architecture, train/infrastructure fitment and lessons learnt from the Cambrian scheme. the IRo have produced a video of the sessions from which viewers are able to choose topics of interest. also, as part of the IRo learn programme, a number of discussion sessions have been held and filmed with current and future users of eRtms to allow people to understand what is involved and some of the current issues. this is available in the form of a matrix covering each topic and depicted in line with the professional operators Development (poD). this is intended to help students with studies and act as a base for learning more about eRtms and its effects on current and future operations. the matrix will be added to and updated as more eRtms is brought into service.
SO… THE MESSAGE IS: ERTMS IS COMING TO A RAILWAY NEAR YOU AND THERE WILL BE MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR OPERATORS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE DESIGN OF THE SYSTEM. THIS WILL THEREBY ENSURE THAT WE EMBRACE THE CHANGES IN SUCH A WAY THAT LAY FIRM FOUNDATIONS FOR THE DIGITAL RAILWAY.
IRo members will be able to gain access to a further web resource dealing with eRtms from the perspective of railway operations. this resource has been put together by the IRo in conjunction with atoC, network Rail and the Rssb to form an expanding series of short educational videos taken from in-depth discussion sessions recorded with industry experts. each video clip showcases discussions in a range of eRtms topics - specifically relevant to rail operations. this content will be continually updated as more video sessions are added over the next twelve months, building into a fully ‘conversational style’ video matrix, answering some of the most common (and uncommon!) eRtms questions. Currently there are just under thirty videos listed on the eRtms matrix and all are ready to view, covering: financial, Readiness, process, people, Customer/supplier, technology and safety subject areas, all referenced to the IRo’s recognised poD module sections. to gain access to the eRtms matrix webpage either log into the IRo website as a member and visit www.railwayoperators.co.uk/ERTMSm atrix to retrieve your password, or nonIRo members should email learning@railwayoperators.co.uk requesting a non-member eRtms matrix password. Do keep checking back over the coming months for the latest updates on the IRo eRtms education programme webpages. further eRtms industry news and information may be found at: www.ertmsonline.com
corporate members 03
CAMPAIGNS CONTINUE TO SUCCESSFULLY TARGET EMPLOYEES OF CORPORATE MEMBERS Throughout recent months the IRO has continued to work with Corporate Members to promote membership to employees who are yet to join the institution. As all employees of our Corporate Members are eligible for free membership it is important to us that we ensure information regarding the IRO is readily available in the workplace. these ongoing campaigns, which include virgin trains east Coast, network Rail and northern Rail, are all continuing to see a consistent increase in membership applications from employees of these organisations. these new members can now begin to access all the benefits that IRo membership brings. from area events that take you behind the scenes to our free industry mentoring scheme, new members are spoilt for choice with all of the ways the IRo can help further your industry knowledge and career. our new members also all add to the growing membership of the institution which is now on course to reach 5000 members in 2016! If you would like to discuss creating a campaign tailored to your organisation please contact simon Rawlings by emailing simon@railwayoperators.co.uk or telephone 03333 440523 (ex. 204).
IRO WELCOMES NEW CORPORATE MEMBERS The Institution of Railway Operators is delighted to have welcomed the following new Corporate Members to the institution: Caledonian Sleeper, Crossrail, Govia Thameslink Railway, KeolisAmey Docklands, Ministry of Defence, Mott MacDonald, Steer Davies Gleave, Telent, Tracsis, Victa Railfreight, Virgin Trains East Coast and WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff. In a new category of membership we also have Industry partners with whom we work closely for the benefit of our members and the wider industry. In this new category we are pleased to include: arcadia alive, passenger focus, myKnowledgemap, Rssb and the Railway safety Commission. we are looking forward to working with our new Corporate members and Industry partners to ensure that their employees and organisation will benefit from the learning opportunities the IRo offers. our academic courses, publications, events, accreditations and mentoring scheme are all ways in which the IRo can help to develop operators’ knowledge in the workplace. we asked David Horne, managing Director of virgin trains east Coast to tell us why his organisation joined the IRo and what benefits he believes this will bring. David said:
"one of my first tasks after the start-up of the new franchise has been to ensure that virgin trains east Coast become Corporate members of the IRo. we've seen tremendous benefits of membership in our sister toCs - virgin trains west Coast, south west trains and east midlands trains. this is one of the reasons why I have been keen to ensure that people working for virgin trains east Coast have access to the learning and development resources and opportunities which the IRo offers. under virgin trains east Coast, the next 8 years will see a transformation of train services on the east Coast main line with the introduction of our 65 new superexpress trains, new timetables and revolutionary etCs signalling. these are significant projects which will stretch us and inspire us, and membership of the IRo will help to ensure that we have the skills and knowledge to deliver this industry-leading transformation."
"One of my first tasks after the start-up of the new franchise has been to ensure that Virgin Trains East Coast become Corporate members of the IRO. We've seen tremendous benefits of membership in our sister TOCs - Virgin Trains West Coast, South West Trains and East Midlands Trains. This is one of the reasons why I have been keen to ensure that people working for Virgin Trains East Coast have access to the learning and development resources and opportunities which the IRO offers”. - David Horne
www.railwayoperators.co.uk
OUR CURRENT CORPORATE MEMBERS ARE: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■
abellio Greater anglia aCoRp arriva trains wales c2c Caledonian sleeper Chiltern Railways CrossCountry Crossrail (mtR) Db schenker east midlands trains edinburgh trams Govia thameslink Railway first Great western first Hull trains first transpennine express freightliner Gb Railfreight Grand Central Heathrow express Heritage Railway association Iarnród Éireann Keolisamey Docklands london midland loRol merseyrail mott macDonald ministry of Defence network Rail northern Rail serco scotRail southeastern southern south west trains steer Davies Gleave telent tracsis translink transnet freight Rail transport for london victa Railfreight virgin trains virgin trains east Coast volker Rail wsp parsons brinckerhoff
OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS ARE:
04 learning products
IRO LEARN IS UNVEILED TO MEMBERS AND PUBLIC Driven by the in-depth IRO market research concluded in 2014, where Corporate Members voted operator specific eLearning high on their wish-list of requirements, the IRO responded by formulating a series of online contemporary learning programmes tailored to meet those indicated needs. IRo learn has been launched not only as a platform to support the newly developed elearning content for its members, but also as a host to valuable learning resources and reference material such as videos and presentations, made available to subscribed rail operators and individuals across the country. the new online content has been designed to complement the professional operator Development (poD) framework, covering twelve recognised areas of capability. each section covered will hopefully expand and build the rail operations skills profile of participating students. selected rail experts have worked hard to author the content of the site, keeping all core material up to date, relevant and on-point throughout. Individual learning sections called ops90 modules relate directly to the poD and through successful completion of each subject section; the students’ knowledge is tested before being allowed to download and print his or her own certificate. each poD section is made up of manageable blocks of study material, allowing flexible bite size learning. successfully passing each section quiz will as a result of further advancement over the next few months, automatically add your results to your IRo member CpD record. other relevant CpD credits can be automatically logged if attending IRo area events or conferences simply by presenting your membership card at the event and scanning its uniquely number barcode. Test yourself with IRO LEARN Answers: Question 1: a, b, C, D, e, f, Question 2: b
learning products
TEST YOURSELF WITH IRO LEARN DELIVERING PASSENGER AND FREIGHT SERVICES – EXERCISE/QUIZ Q1 SPECIAL EVENTS
INTRODUCTION TO THE RAILWAY INDUSTRY for those new to rail, IRo learn offers the ‘Introduction to the Railway Industry’ elearning course covering nine foundation areas of the industry. this basic course allows someone with limited experience of Rail operations to learn about the industry in general, building their confidence though easy to understand, step by step multi-media sections, explanatory videos and a number of short progress quizzes. once this course is successfully completed and verified a certificate is issued to the participant by the IRo.
the Introduction to the Railway Industry course pilot is now available for purchase through the IRo shop (www.railwayoperators.co.uk) and there are currently only a few discounted pilot enrolments remaining for individual members to trial after which it will be available at the full price. the more advanced ops90 modules will be available very soon, courses also available for purchase from the IRo shop. If during the prelaunch period you would like to register your interest for ops90, please email learning@railwayoperators.co.uk for priority access as soon as it is released. IRo members can find IRo learn at www.irolearn.co.uk you will be able to view a selection of videos from industry conferences and seminars at www.irolearn.co.uk/videos along with valuable eRtms learning resources here www.irolearn.co.uk/ERTMS
Crowd control is an important issue at stations, both from the point of view of managing emergencies and ensuring that passengers can catch their trains. sometimes small stations, which would not normally handle large volumes, are used to handle passengers during special events.
In order to ensure a free-flowing and safe station following a special event, as a minimum, there needs to be: Tick those items which are essential to maintain system safety?
A: trains
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B: staff
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C: Communications
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D: Queuing systems
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E: platform access separation
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F: Contingency plans
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G: barriers
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H: police on site
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I: food and catering supplies
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Q2
While waiting for updates during disruption at a major interchange station, is it best to..
A: Hold the passengers on the main concourse
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B: Hold the passengers on the platform ■ answers can be found bottom left page 4
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membership
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WE HAVE MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOU TO GET INVOLVED AND SHAPE THE INSTITUTION’S GROWTH AND FUTURE. HERE ARE SOME IDEAS – IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO GET INVOLVED OR HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE CONTACT THE STAFFORD OFFICE.
CREATING SPECIALIST PROFESSIONAL GROUPS
In the near future all members will be invited to take part in a survey. please take a few minutes to provide us with your feedback as your responses will allow the IRo to continue developing in line with the needs of members and the wider industry.
DO YOU WANT TO HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF THE INSTITUTION?
our members are forming a range of special interest groups based on the 12 areas of our poD. the 12 areas are: ■ emergency and Incident management ■ performance management ■ Delivering passenger and freight services ■ managing safety ■ Delivering Customer services ■ operational planning and timetabling ■ train movement and Control systems ■ Rolling stock and fleet management ■ Railway engineering, maintenance and Renewal management ■ people and Change ■ Railway organisations business Context ■ financial and Investment planning If you would like to be part of a small working party to consider the future of one or more of these disciplines, the current written materials or the future industry career planning for it please get in touch. this work might also involve the new edition of the operators’ Handbook. www.railwayoperators.co.uk
THE SURVEY
BUSINESS PLANNING ACTIVITIES: the IRo is putting together its next three – ten year plan and welcomes any input from its membership on what you would like to see from the IRo next. we would be interested to hear your ideas on what activities the IRo should undertake and what issues and problems we should try to solve within the industry. work in this topic area might also include proofing the Charter documentation or helping to scope different value propositions.
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IRO STUDENTS CELEBRATE SUCCESS
IRO HOLDS INAUGURAL INNOVATIONS CONCEPTS AWARDS On the evening of November 4th the IRO held its first Innovation Concept Awards, a competition which aims to inspire innovators who seek to make the industry more efficient through improving operations. The event, which was sponsored by Tracsis, was held at the Charing Cross hotel and was a celebration of innovation in the industry. throughout the evening pat Casey (Iarnród Éireann), Kerry Cassidy (first Great western), stacey adriaanse (Iarnród Éireann) and luke Durston (network Rail) presented their ideas to the judges and guests. During their presentations all of the finalists offered thorough reasoning for their innovative ideas. following questions with the finalists, the panel of judges John mcarthur (Chief executive officer of tracsis), Claire mann (operations and safety Director of arriva trains wales) and stewart langridge (operations Director of frieghtliner Heavy Haul), had the difficult task of selecting the winner. Congratulations go to the joint winners pat Casey (passenger services manager) and stacey adriaanse (safety liaison executive, northern District) who impressed the judges so much with their ideas that it was decided both finalists should be awarded the winning title and be given £1000 each – John mcarthur was happy to double the
original cash prize as he felt both finalists had presented equally valuable and innovative ideas. During her presentation, stacey outlined a project she has been working on to address anti-social behavior issues which have impacted railway operations at an urban railway station. she explained how engaging with the local community significantly reduced trespassing and vandalism at the station in question. In contrast, pat explained his remote pilotman idea which is being trialled on a railway line in Ireland. pat described the process and its benefits when compared with traditional pilotman working. using innovations to tackle genuine business needs is increasingly important in the delivery of tomorrow’s railway operations. that is why the IRo was pleased to host this event with the support of tracsis which encourages innovators within the industry to reach their potential.
The IRO is pleased to present the latest cohort of 35 graduates from our diploma and certificate courses. The graduation ceremony, which was held in November at the Glasgow Symphony Hall, was enjoyed by all who attended and was a proud moment where students were able to celebrate all of the hard work they have put into their studies with friends and family. Well done to all on your dedication and commitment to your professional learning! Diploma: maxwell allen (network Rail), paul Gregory ashton (network Rail), Henry beegan (Iarnród Éireann), Jeremy Carder (network Rail), Richard Cole (first Great western), william Doherty (translink), marc ellix (network Rail), stephen farrell (northern Rail), shaun Jasper (network Rail), barry mclaughlin (scotRail), vincent mcmahon (Iarnród Éireann), andrew James oakey (CrossCountry), Kerry louise sheehan (CrossCountry), william peter shepherd (network Rail), michael smith (first Great western), tony stevens (tube lines), neil John wignall (CrossCountry).
Certificate: Christian austin (southern Railway), Ricky barsby (Govia thameslink Railway), Robert Colbeck baynes (southern Railway), andrew James Cheetham (first Great western), stuart farquhar (network Rail), matthew John Irving (network Rail), thaira Kauser (loRol), stephen Guy macCallaugh (Govia thameslink Railway), bruce alexander morrison (network Rail), lukas oleksiak (network Rail), David onslow (abellio Greater anglia), Gary pike (tube lines), Kerene Raymond (Govia thameslink Railway), Caroline saunders (first Great western), Darran townsend (virgin trains), malgorzata walas (Govia thameslink Railway), Jordon whale (first Great western), michael york (Chiltern Railways).
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IRO SHORTLISTED AT ASSOCIATION EXCELLENCE AWARDS
The IRO is pleased to announce that it was shortlisted in the ‘Best Advancement of a Cause’ category for ‘Railway Operators’ Learning’ at the Association Excellence Awards 2015. The event, which was hosted by the QEII Centre, saw organisations from across the UK and abroad celebrate the excellence that had been achieved by those present.
IRO SPONSORS YOUNG PROFESSIONAL AWARD AT RAIL BUSINESS AWARDS 2014 On Thursday 26th February the 2014 Rail Business Awards were held at the London Hilton on Park Lane which saw members from across the industry gather to celebrate the success of individuals and organisations alike. as a sponsor of the young professional category, an award given to the most outstanding young professional working within the uK rail industry, the IRo was delighted to attend this event with representatives from the stafford office and area Councils. During the event fiona tordoff (Chief executive officer, IRo) was also thrilled to present alan stewart (siemens) as the winner of the young professional award. simon edmundson (east Kent Resignalling project) was also Highly Commended in this category. the IRo would like congratulate all the winners and entrants at this event for their achievement and desire to promote excellence within the industry.
as the IRo is devoted to providing valuable learning opportunities to its members and those within the industry, the event was both a celebration of what has already been achieved by the IRo and an inspiration for its continuous improvement.
DO YOU FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND LINKEDIN? Did you know that you can follow the IRO on Twitter and LinkedIn? Our social media accounts are one of many ways you can find out about upcoming events and read IRO/industry news. If you would like to follow us on twitter visit: www.twitter.com/railwayops or search for us on twitter using our handle, @railwayops. to follow us on linkedIn you can also visit www.linkedin.com/company/theinstitution-of-railway-operators or search for The Institution of Railway Operators on the website.
UNSURE HOW TO USE TWITTER? If you are confused about the difference between hashtags and handles but want to join one of the world’s leading social media websites, our new guide to using twitter can help. Created with railway operators in mind, the guide will show you how to set up a twitter account and join global conversations about the industry and more. please email simon to request your copy: photos courtesy of simon Callaghan photography.
www.railwayoperators.co.uk
simon@railwayoperators.co.uk
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MIDLANDS
MIDLANDS AREA VISITS TRAM DEPOT BY BILL MAHONEY
The Midlands Area of the IRO visited the Midland Metro tram depot at Wednesbury in January. The visit started with a ride on one of the newly acquired ‘Urbos 3’ trams from Birmingham Snow Hill to the depot. The tram system is controlled from the depot, also known as the Metro Centre, which is adjacent to Wednesbury Great Western Street stop, near the point where the tramway crosses the disused Walsall-Dudley-Stourbridge railway line. the metro fleet currently has 16 type t69 trams each configured in a two-car layout with a short central articulated section. this original fleet introduced in 1999 were 16 ansaldo t69 articulated two-section trams, built in Caserta, Italy. However, in february 2012 Caf was named preferred bidder for a number of new urbos 3 trams. a £40 million order for 20 was placed and the new fleet will provide an increased service of 10 trams per hour in each direction with an increased capacity of 208 passengers per tram, compared with the 156 passengers on the existing t69 trams. the urbos 3 trams are 33 metres long, 9 metres longer than the existing t69 stock, and have a maximum operating speed of 70 km/h (43 mph). both sets of trams are currently running in service. However, as the new ones become fully commissioned, the t69’s will be withdrawn.
some of the new trams are currently being commissioned at the depot. During easter in 2013, all 46 platforms at the 23 stations were altered to accommodate the 20 new, larger trams. at the same time, the t69 trams were all fitted with a step to lessen the gap between them and the platforms. all the trams are equipped with automatic train control system, passenger displays, CCtv with live display and public address. stops have intercom connection with metro Centre, and in october 2007 a £250,000 replacement programme of digital displays with real time information was completed. an extension at the depot to cater for the new trams has been completed and included extending both ends of the existing maintenance building as well as upgrading and refurbishing office and staff
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NORTH EAST AREA
PRINCIPLES OF SIGNALLING
photograph courtesy of network Rail
BY DAVID MONK-STEEL
Photograph courtesy of Centro
welfare facilities. a new testing and commissioning building has also been constructed with various power and signalling upgrade works undertaken. the depot track layout has been altered to provide greater flexibility of movement including a loop which enables trams to be turned around as there has never been a capability to do this before now. midland metro is a wholly owned subsidiary of national express Group plc. and is the light rail system for the west midlands which operates between birmingham and wolverhampton via west bromwich, bilston and wednesbury. It opened in 1999, mostly using the former disused GwR formation between birmingham and wolverhampton. plans include ambitious extensions to the route, such as the 14km from the city centre to birmingham International airport, 7.5km to Quinton and 10km to Great barr. Centro has already let the contract to build the extension from snow Hill to new street station and work is in progress. our return trip to birmingham snow Hill station was on one of the t69 trams which enabled us all to experience the difference between the two tram types. our thanks go to Colin Robey, team leader of midland metro operations projects for Centro and acting Chairman of the midlands area Council, for arranging and conducting the visit.
www.railwayoperators.co.uk
The North East Area of the IRO were recently given a master class by Phil Graham (retired but formerly Network Rail), on the Principles of Signalling. The event, which offered members the opportunity to expand their industry knowledge, provided a detailed and informative description of the signalling systems that are used by Network Rail. to start the master class phil first gave a statistical analysis of the different methods of signalling in use on the network, which showed how absolute block and mechanically operated signals were still a significant operating method in use at 322 signal boxes. this accounts for over half the current 572 block posts, although to put this into context these control only 18% of track mileage. even taking the various single line systems into account, track Circuit block must now account for well over 70 percent of that track mileage (even though the total number of boxes / signalling centres operating this system is only 281). He then described how and when each different type of signalling was introduced and the reasons for the different methods still employed today. each significant method of signalling was illustrated with photographs and diagrams, further enhanced with examples drawn from phil’s wealth of personal experience. the manner in which these were operated was then illustrated in a series of video films. one interesting aspect demonstrated which was not familiar to most of the delegates was the operation of Radio electric token block in scotland. the method of working on both double and single lines was considered in detail,
together with the improvements that the introduction of train detection by track circuits brought, eventually enabling the development of automatic signalling and track Circuit block. to round off the master class phil spoke about signalling without lineside signals and described different methods of train detection other than by electrical track circuits. phil kept the master class delegates enthralled with a lively and detailed description of a wide ranging topic. paul snowden, who attended the event, said "the speaker really made his subject come to life with his examples of real life incidents." emrys warriner also added that phil gave “ a wonderful balance of practical examples of the complex railway system and how it works, supported by a wonderful balance of history to help you fully understand why we do what we do!” In regards to future learning opportunities phil invited those present to attend his ‘block classes’. these classes are open to anyone from the railway industry who wishes to acquire an in-depth understanding of railway signalling, and who may if they so wish at the end of the year take an examination in the topic. more information will be circulated by email to IRo members when the programme is finalised.
12 areas
SOUTH EAST
SOUTH EAST AREA VISITS NORTHUMBERLAND PARK DEPOT The South East Area of the IRO recently visited Northumberland Park Depot to learn about how the Victoria Line is operated and have a go on the driver training simulators. The event oered members the opportunity to learn more about the work of drivers and also provided the opportunity to go behind the scenes at London Underground’s service and storage area for trains on the Victoria Line.
Robin morgan (south east area Council member), who joined members at the event to broaden his knowledge of the industry, provides the following account: upon meeting at seven sisters tube station, members boarded the sta train for the short journey to northumberland park Depot. once at the Depot we headed straight to the simulators where members were given a demonstration. following this we were also given the opportunity to have a go on the simulators (though not in ato mode!) we next moved over through the depot to osborne House - the victoria line's nerve
centre. members split up into three groups and were then shown around the live Control Room; the Control Room simulator; and a room where we spent some time learning about the operating principles of the victoria line. we then regrouped to thank our hosts, and were even given a few parting gifts to remember our visit to northumberland park. Glen merryman (IRo south east area Chairman) said: "the northumberland park control and driver simulator visit gave those who attended great behind the scenes and hands-on experience. my thanks go to the team who showed us around as they were great hosts".
areas Flickr: ‘2009 Tube Stock 11051 at Northumberland Park Depot’ by κύριαsity is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0
SOUTH EAST
IRO AREA COUNCILS CELEBRATE FEEDBACK SUCCESS BY SIMON RAWLINGS Throughout recent months IRO Area Councils have consistently received extremely positive feedback regarding the quality and value of their events. A determined effort has been made by Area Council Members to ensure attendees are given the opportunity to reflect upon events they have attended. This information is invaluable as it allows IRO Area Councils to review previous events and act upon suggestions for the future. Congratulations to all of our area Councils who have worked extremely hard in achieving the feedback listed below.
OF THOSE SURVEYED: of attendees rated the event overall as...
100% GOOD/EXCELLENT of attendees would recommend an IRo
100% TO A COLLEAGUE 98.8
%
of attendees rated the value of the event as a learning opportunity as...
GOOD/EXCELLENT
YOUR FEEDBACK IS EXTREMELY VALUABLE TO US… If you would like to find out what’s on near you please see the Diary of events on the back page or visit
www.railwayoperators.co.uk /whats-on www.railwayoperators.co.uk
Please take a minute to complete an evaluation card at the next IRO event you attend or, if you prefer, submit your feedback on the IRO website using this link… www.railwayoperators.co.uk /event-evaluation/ thank you!
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14 areas
NORTH WEST AND WALES AREA
LEVEL CROSSINGS BY GARETH EVANS, LEVEL CROSSING MANAGER
Reducing and managing risk at level crossings is of great importance to the industry. Gareth Evans of Network Rail provides a valuable insight into the organisation’s London North West Route’s journey of risk reduction. network Rail manages britain’s rail network and has around 6,100 level crossings ranging from footpaths, those used by farmers and other land owners to automated barriers crossing public roads. the risks at each are different, as too is the way in which they are managed and network Rail has developed a collaborative programme of risk management and reduction through improvements in engineering, education and enforcement. this strategy has delivered great results. at the exit from control period 4 (Cp4), in april 2014, network Rail had exceeded its target of a 25% reduction in level crossing risk across the network.
stretching 311 ½ miles from london to scotland, linking four major cities – birmingham, manchester, liverpool and Glasgow, the london north western (lnw) route is the largest network Rail route. this route, covering 4,500 track miles, is divided into three geographical operating areas, hosts 7 maintenance delivery units and accommodates 13 train operating companies and six freight operators traversing the network. the spine of the route is the west Coast main line, one of the uK’s priority trans-european network corridors and the busiest mixed-traffic corridor in europe. amongst all of this are nearly 1,000 level crossings.
areas THE CASE FOR CHANGE
one key incident of note occurred on 17th august 2010 when a train collided with a loaded 44 tonne articulated road tanker on sewage works lane user worked crossing (uwC) near sudbury in suffolk. the collision caused the train to derail which seriously injured four passengers and the train driver and caused minor injuries to many other passengers and the conductor. as a consequence of this accident, the Rail accident Investigation branch (RaIb) made six recommendations, four of which were aimed at network Rail including changes to network Rail’s approach to the management of risk at level crossings.
APPROACH TO REDUCING LEVEL CROSSING RISK TO DATE
network Rail has now introduced, nationwide, route based teams whose sole job is to manage the risks at level crossings. on lnw we have a team of 12 level Crossing managers based all over the route from Carlisle to bletchley and a Route level Crossing manager. upon introducing level crossing managers to the route lnw realised the risk at crossings was higher than previously thought. the experience they brought to the role meant a greater understanding of the risks that already existed at these level crossings. following on from that our team is now actively working to reduce the risk at level crossings so far as is reasonably practicable, we are doing that in a number of ways;
CLOSURE
lnw has brought together a steering group to help manage the closures process of the many level crossings that we have committed to closing in Cp5. this steering group comprises professionals within the business from eight different fields of expertise in order to make the process as robust as possible.
UPGRADE
where closure is not possible network Rail still has the legal and moral obligation to reduce the risk at a level crossing so far as is reasonably practicable. through the risk assessment process now in place, level Crossing managers, who have the best knowledge of these crossings, are able to recommend suitable options for consideration to reduce the risk. these options can range from minor works such as fencing, new signage or re-marking of lines all the way to full upgrade of the crossing to mCb – oD (full barrier Crossing with obstacle Detection). when a crossing is due for renewal or upgrade, meaning it is coming to the end of its life as a crossing in its current form. network Rail undertakes a comprehensive risk assessment to help us find the best value for money option and explore other options available to us that could reduce the risk at the crossing even further. for example, we look to see if the money could be spent to develop an alternative route that would see non-railway traffic cross over the railway at separated grade or via a completely different route altogether.
USER EDUCATION
lnw’s level Crossing managers spend a great amount of time working within the local communities around their level crossings to enhance users education about the risks of using a level crossing. we spend time at crossings talking to the users whilst they are near to the crossing, attend local schools, speak to authorised users of crossings and their staff, attend county shows and support the Community Relations manager at events they hold. this is a vital method of risk reduction that can often not be shown in figures but that helps us raise awareness and build relationships with key user groups. to find out more about network Rail’s work on level crossings visit
www.networkrail.co.uk/levelcrossings www.railwayoperators.co.uk
15
16 what’s on in your area
DIARY OF EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS MONDAY 8TH JUNE | 10:30-13:00
YOUR IRO AREA CONTACTS
To get involved with your regional IRO Area or to book a place on any of the events listed please get in touch using the contacts below.
STOURTON FLT VISIT LEEDS | NORTH EAST AREA a daytime visit to a modern freightliner depot where all aspects of the modern container freight facilities will be experienced and explained.
FRIDAY 19TH JUNE | 12:00-16:00
IRO ANNUAL MEMBERS’ LUNCH 2015 LONDON
MONDAY 6TH JULY 18:00-19:30
THE RISE OF NONTECHNICAL SKILLS LONDON | SOUTH EAST AREA Dr. ann mills, professional Head of Human factors for the Rssb, will be speaking to IRo south east area members about the vital role a focus on non-technical plays in the safe operation of the railway. ann will be outlining the history of nontechnical skills in the Industry and how and why the focus on human factors has evolved.
Join members and guests at the contemporary Cumberland Hotel, london with guest speaker peter wilkinson (mD, passenger services, Department for transport).
this event is free for anyone to attend and would be particularly relevant to those who manage safety critical staff including driver, conductor and station managers.
JIM DOUGLAS
a complimentary morning seminar will also be available to the first 100 delegates to register.
TUESDAY 28TH JULY 17:00-19:00
NORTH EAST AREA:
for further details or to book a place please contact the office on 03333 440523 or email info@railwayoperators.co.uk
IRISH AREA:
HILTON PARR
i.chairman@railwayoperators.co.uk
SCOTTISH AREA: s.events@railwayoperators.co.uk
DAVID MONK-STEEL
northeast@railwayoperators.co.uk
NORTH WEST AREA:
CHRIS MACKENZIE
nw.chairman@railwayoperators.co.uk
MIDLANDS AREA:
RACHEL HEATH
m.events@railwayoperators.co.uk
SOUTH WEST AREA:
MARTIN BONNINGTON
sw.events@railwayoperators.co.uk
SOUTH EAST AREA:
OMAR SOARES
se.comms@railwayoperators.co.uk
YOUNG OPERATORS:
PETR MIKYSKA
yo.events@railwayoperators.co.uk
SATURDAY 20TH JUNE 2015 09:00-19:00
NORTH YORKSHIRE MOORS RAILWAY (NYMR) FAMILY DAY PICKERING | NORTH EAST AREA this event will include an introduction (with tea and coffee) to the railway followed by recreational time with your family and the opportunity specific visits to stations and loco shed visitor area. please note that the following transport arrangements are in place for this event: a bus will depart york at 09:00am (location tbC). It will then arrive at pickering at 10am. It is scheduled to return from pickering at 17:30 / 18:00.
TRACK RELAYING SYSTEM & BALLAST CLEANING SYSTEM TALK YORK | NORTH EAST AREA a talk by Dougy blakeley on the track Relaying system (tRs) and ballast Cleaning system (HobC) and their application. to book your place at this event or to find out more please email David monk-steel: ne.secretary@railwayoperators.co.uk
TUESDAY 14TH JULY 17:00-20:00
SOCIAL EVENING YORK | NORTH EAST AREA Join your fellow IRo members at the windmill Inn for an informal social evening. please email David monk-steel to register your interest: ne.secretary@railwayoperators.co.uk
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