Track access controller: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 13:40, 23 February 2016

Revision as of 13:45, 23 February 2016

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The post of the Track Access Controller (formerly the Engineering Works Controller - EWC) was created in 1983, with the introduction of the Line Safe Office, followed six months later by the Line Clear Office. In 1990 the two offices combined and they took residence in a purpose built control centre based in South-West [[London]]. Track Access Controllers must be aware of all safety and traction current arrangements on the tracks they are responsible for. Every night they must read their publications and come to a complete understanding of all train movements to be made that are not included in the normal Time Table. This will include any additional trains, both passenger and engineers trains running, and all works and other protection arrangements on the track they are protecting. The TACs must confirm Traction Current switching amendments with the Power Control Room Operators, prior to accepting calls for protection.

When the TAC Desks open for Protection Requests, "Protectionpersons Mastersprotecting workers on the track (PWT)" (see definition below) and others arranging protection, must contact the relevant TAC Desks and book their protection with the TAC. TAC protection is in place when the TAC has given authority, by issuing a Reference Number and a Call-Back Time. Engineering Hours Protection is in place only when the Traction Current has been switched off and confirmed off, at or after the published switching off time.

A protectionperson masterprotecting workers on the track (PWT) is defined as a person certificated by LU to

provide protection for themselves and others when on or about the

track:

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• during engineering hours, or

• in a depot or stabling siding.

A protection master’s certificate will be endorsed to show either traffic hours, engineering hours, depots or a combination of all

three.

A protectionperson masterprotecting workers on the track (PWT) is identified by an armband worn on the right arm above the elbow.

Track Access Controllers are trained in many aspects of railway management. They are an "Operational Manager" grade of London Underground and each must be competent to deal with multi-tasking, emergencies and conflicts of work. Their priorities are safety, completion of engineering work and the safe/timely return of the railway for passenger trains every morning. Track Access Controllers collaborate with others to resolve problems related to "overrunning engineering work".