01.01.13
Lifesaving Rules launched
Source: Rail Technology Magazine Dec/Jan 2013
Network Rail is training everyone who works for it to understand and comply with its 11 new ‘Lifesaving Rules’, intended as a simple and memorable framework to underpin the organisation’s new safety vision, which sees more trust placed in employees, reports Kate Ashley.
Network Rail’s new Lifesaving Rules focus on six different areas, and were chosen based on circumstances where lives are most at risk.
They were inspired by real-life incidents from a range of areas over the past six years, including working at height, which saw 39 major RIDDORs; using machinery; working with electricity, which saw 775 personal accidents and incidents; and driving.
Guidance on how to deal with breaches of the rules was launched from October 1 alongside a clear, agreed system to reward positive actions and reinforce the rules.
The Lifesaving Rules are designed to improve safety culture and protect everyone who works on or near the railway, reducing risk and addressing human issues such as fear, complacency and a lack of trust.
Managers are instructed to find and tackle the root cause of any rule-breaking ahead of taking disciplinary measures.
They are meant to ensure that everyone takes responsibility for safety and that everyone is treated fairly if they highlight work which could break a Lifesaving Rule.
Network Rail suggests that 90% of breaches are honest mistakes, due to human error, slips or situational breach, compared to just 10% which are deliberate. The appropriate action for each breach will depend upon the circumstances and the individual’s motivations.
The rules were developed following a consultation with over 1,300 Network Rail staff, as well as contractors and unions.
The 11 rules are:
Contact with trains
Always have a valid safe system of work in place before going on or near the line.
Working with moving equipment
Never enter the agreed exclusion zone, unless directed to by the person in charge.
Working with electricity
Always have a valid permit to work where required.
Always test before applying earths.
Never assume equipment is isolated – always test before touch.
Driving
Always wear a seat belt while in a moving vehicle and always obey the speed limit.
Never use a hand-held device or programme any hands-free device while you are driving a road vehicle.
Taking responsibility
Never undertake an activity unless you have been trained, assessed as competent and have the right equipment.
Never drive or work while under the infl uence of drugs or alcohol.
Working at height
Unless it is clear other protection is in place, never work at height without a safety harness
Always use equipment for working at heights that is fit for purpose.
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