Signals
The Signals and Control Systems group governs signalling assurance by providing a high level of expertise in auditing and assessing signalling infrastructure condition and performance at various stages of the asset life cycle. In addition, the accountability extends to network performance reporting and resolution of signal engineering issues that relate to reliability and integrity.
The responsibility for assessing, testing, trialling and type approval of new signalling equipment and systems and the investigation and resolution of complex technical problems also rests with this group.
To achieve these requirements the Signal & Control Systems group needs to be across many facets of the business, the rail industry and especially signal engineering.
Signal infrastructure assets include:
• Signals and trainstops
• Track circuits
• Computer based interlocking
• Signalling locations containing signalling circuitry
• Points ( turnouts) mechanisms
• Cables and cable ducting for signalling
Standards index
The Signals Standards Documents Listing and Cross Reference lists all signals documents and shows their current version number and issue date.
Standards documents
The signal engineering standards documentation is intended for use by competent signalling persons. To perform design or engineering work an appropriate level of Engineering Authority needs to be granted by the Chief Engineer Signals and Control Systems.
Engineering procedures
These documents define the procedures to be followed when undertaking work related to the signalling infrastructure, they include Signalling safeworking procedures ( Manual J ).
Engineering specifications
These establish acceptance requirements for components or processes suitable for use in procurement. They are addressed to manufacturers and suppliers. Specifications include construction specifications, equipment specifications and inspection and testing of signalling specifications.
Engineering manuals
These establish procedures for the installation, inspection and maintenance of signal assets. They are addressed primarily to the person undertaking the activity in the field. Manuals include maintenance manuals, equipment manuals and set to work manuals.
Engineering standards
These documents establish functional and design requirements, approved configurations, acceptance standards, damage limits and repair standards for signal assets. They are intended for designers and asset managers. Signal engineering standards include:
Signalling practice and configuration standards define the required signalling equipment configurations for current signalling works
Signalling design principles give the design principles to which new signalling system shall comply
Training and competency procedures define the skills and competencies required to undertake signalling work
License to practice and statement of competency comprise the licenses and certified competencies held by persons authorised to undertake signalling work
Standard forms cover the various forms used for inspections and testing of signaling infrastructure.
Signals quality design procedures comprise the quality management procedures for the production of Signals design & engineering work