Track access controller: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 22:40, 5 March 2016

Revision as of 19:49, 15 March 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 the traffic circulars and come to a complete understanding of all train movements to be made that are not included in the normal timetable. 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 "persons protecting 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. Call-Back time is when all workers and equipment must be clear of the track, exceeding this time by 15 minutes and under will cause what is knowknown as "late surrender", 16 minutes and over will result in overrunning engineering works. 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 person protecting workers on the track (PWT) is defined as a person certificated by LU to