Carry out non-destructive testing of rails

This standard is about testing the integrity of rails using non-destructive testing equipment.

You will be required to carry out non-destructive testing of rails, which may include plain line, switches and crossings. You will also know the types of tools and equipment available for rail integrity testing either by ultra-sonic or other means.

The type and complexity of tests to be carried out will be approved by your organisation.

During this work, you must take account of the relevant worksite operational requirements, procedures and safe working practices as they apply to you.

Your underpinning knowledge will provide a good understanding of your work and will provide an informed approach to applying problem-solving techniques and procedures when carrying out non-destructive testing of rails.

You will comply with any organisational procedures, and legislative or regulatory health, safety and environmental requirements applicable when carrying out non-destructive testing of rails.

This standard is for all skilled operatives carrying out permanent way engineering activities

P1 maintain safe working practices and comply with all relevant health and safety regulations, directives, and guidelines
P2 identify any necessary changes to safety requirements upon site arrival and report to the relevant person(s) without delay
P3 source and follow the appropriate schedules, diagrams and related specifications for the work being carried out as approved by your organisation
P4 obtain all of the equipment required to carry out non-destructive testing of rails ensuring that it is in safe and usable condition
P5 identify the type of tests to be carried out and the types of tools and equipment to be used
P6 ensure equipment is calibrated as required prior to use
P7 identify and follow the appropriate procedures for use of tools and equipment to carry out the required tests
P8 identify and assess any defects or variations from the specification and review the results in line with your organisation's procedures
P9 prepare appropriate documentation to update on progress and report completion of activities in line with your organisation's procedures
P10 address problems within your control and report unresolved issues
P11 set up and carry out the tests within agreed timescales and in line with organisation's procedures

K1 the relevant health and safety regulations, directives, guidelines, and safe working practices and procedures defined by your organisation, as appropriate to the activity and your working area
K2 your responsibilities in respect of health, safety and environment, including the limits of your personal responsibility, your legal responsibility for your own health and safety and the health and safety of others
K3 the importance of wearing protective clothing and other appropriate type of safety equipment (PPE) and where to obtain it from
K4 how to locate and access the site
K5 hazards associated with working on permanent way infrastructure
K6 environmental and safety risks associated with working with hazardous substances and materials
K7 how to source and follow schedules, diagrams and specifications relevant to your role, as approved by your organisation
K8 the type and complexity of tests to be carried out including:
K8.1 the use of handheld testing equipment
K8.2 the use of trolley mounted testing equipment
K8.3 the use of train mounted testing equipment
K8.4 reading and assessing data
K8.5 specialised techniques
K8.6 reporting defects
K9 the types of test equipment and their application(s) and limitation(s) as approved by your organisation for the testing of rails
K10 your organisation's procedures for the calibration of equipment
K11 your organisation's procedures for the care and use of tools and equipment
K12 the methods and procedures for setting up and carrying out non- destructive testing of rails
K13 the relevant data management processes and technologies for recording information
K14 the relevant reporting lines, timeframes and procedures as approved by your organisation
K15 the impact of your work on the operations of other departments and the impact of their work for you
K16 the limits of your own authority and responsibility and those of others involved