Assess the performance and condition of permanent way assets

This standard is about assessing the performance and condition of permanent way assets using data obtained from measuring equipment and by visual or vehicular inspection.

You will be required to assess the performance and condition of permanent way assets using data obtained through inspection. The analysis methods to be used will include both calculation and comparison.

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 when assessing the performance and condition of permanent way assets.

You will comply with any organisational procedures, and legislative or regulatory health, safety and environmental requirements applicable when assessing the performance and condition of permanent way assets.

This standard is for all supervisors 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 ensure that you have the necessary test data on which to conduct the assessment
P5 carry out the assessment using all relevant data and approved methods
P6 check that the assessment provides clear and accurate information
P7 compare and analyse current performances and condition data with that from previous assessments
P8 record and review the outcomes and take appropriate action 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

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 of assets to assess including:
K8.1 plain line
K8.2 switches and crossings
K8.3 track substructure
K8.4 track structures such as bridges, tunnels, embankments and cuttings
K9 how to access and interpret the relevant equipment operating and test specifications as approved by your organisation
K10 the methods and procedures for monitoring equipment including ensuring consistency of data retrieval
K11 how to analyse information received from equipment, including as appropriate, performing calculations
K12 the assessment methods and techniques as approved by your organisation and the manufacturer(s), including:
K12.1 reading data
K12.2 calculation
K12.3 comparison
K13 how to source and interpret approved manuals and related information
K14 the type of data to be analysed relating to:
K14.1 track geometry (vehicular records including OTM reports, manual, historic and current information)
K14.2 track inspection records
K14.3 rail, ballast and sleeper integrity testing reports
K14.4 rail defect analysis
K14.5 survey information
K14.6 dynamic/static readings
K14.7 off track information
K14.8 environmental information
K14.9 ultrasonic testing records
K15 how and when the data and/or information received may be compromised
K16 the relevant reporting documentation and control procedures as approved by your organisation
K17 the relevant data management processes and technologies for recording information
K18 the relevant reporting lines, timeframes and procedures as approved by your organisation
K19 the impact of your work on the operations of other departments and the impact of their work for you
K20 the limits of your own authority and responsibility and those of others involved