PTS - Personal Track Safety Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to Network Rail standards (NR/L2/OHS/021), what are the minimum mandatory items of PPE that must be worn at all times by a PTS holder when on or near the line?

Accepted Answer

Safety helmet (white, unless a new entrant), high-visibility clothing (upper and lower body), and safety footwear with ankle support and mid-sole protection.

Answer

Safety helmet, ear defenders, high-visibility trousers, and safety footwear.

Answer

High-visibility upper body clothing, gloves, safety glasses, and a bump cap.

Answer

A high-visibility vest, steel toe-capped boots, and a safety helmet.

Question 2

A PTS cardholder is preparing for a night shift. Why is it critical that their high-visibility clothing meets the RIS-3279-TOM standard?

Accepted Answer

Because the standard specifies retro-reflective materials that make the wearer visible in the headlights of an approaching train.

Answer

Because the standard guarantees the clothing is flame-retardant.

Answer

Because the standard ensures the clothing is bright orange, which is the most visible colour in low-light conditions.

Answer

Because the standard requires the clothing to be insulated for warmth during colder nights.

Question 3

Which of the following conditions would make a piece of high-visibility clothing non-compliant and unsafe for use on the track?

Accepted Answer

The garment is heavily soiled with dirt and grease, obscuring the fluorescent material.

Answer

The manufacturer's label has faded from washing.

Answer

A small, stitched repair has been made to a pocket.

Answer

The sponsor's logo on the back is slightly peeling at the edges.

Question 4

You are issued with new safety footwear for trackside work. Which specific features must these boots have to comply with Network Rail standards?

Accepted Answer

Ankle support and a penetration-resistant mid-sole.

Answer

Steel toe caps and a waterproof lining.

Answer

Electrical hazard resistance and slip-resistant soles.

Answer

Quick-release laces and a comfort insole.

Question 5

A risk assessment for a task involving the use of a ballast tamping machine has identified a significant noise hazard. In this scenario, what is the most appropriate action regarding PPE?

Accepted Answer

Wear task-specific hearing protection in addition to the mandatory PPE.

Answer

Proceed with standard mandatory PPE as the helmet provides some noise reduction.

Answer

Request a quieter machine before starting work.

Answer

Ensure your high-visibility clothing has a hood to cover your ears.

Question 6

What is the specific Railway Industry Standard that governs the requirements for high-visibility clothing worn by people on or near the line in the UK?

Accepted Answer

RIS-3279-TOM

Answer

ISO 20471

Answer

BS EN 397

Answer

NR/L2/OHS/021