Safe Systems of Work Flashcards

Who is primarily responsible for establishing a Safe System of Work (SSOW) for a group working on or near the line?

Answer: The Controller of Site Safety (COSS)

The Controller of Site Safety (COSS) is the qualified individual responsible for planning and implementing a Safe System of Work to protect a group of people from trains and other railway hazards. [2, 3, 9]

A COSS has briefed the workgroup on a Safe System of Work that relies on a lookout. During the shift, dense fog unexpectedly rolls in, severely reducing visibility. What is the most appropriate action for the COSS to take?

Answer: Stop all work immediately and move the group to a position of safety.

A fundamental principle of a Safe System of Work is that it must remain effective for the entire duration of the work. A change in conditions, such as the sudden arrival of dense fog, renders a lookout system ineffective and unsafe. The COSS must stop work and reassess the SSOW, which may involve getting a line blockage or waiting for conditions to improve. [2, 3]

Which of the following is considered the highest level of protection in the hierarchy of Safe Systems of Work?

Answer: A Safeguarded site (all lines are blocked to traffic).

The hierarchy of controls for a Safe System of Work prioritizes the complete separation of people from trains. A 'Safeguarded' site, where all lines through the work area are blocked to traffic (a possession), is the most secure method and sits at the top of the hierarchy. [6, 17]

Before any work can begin on or near the line, what must the COSS provide to the entire workgroup?

Answer: A comprehensive safety briefing on the SSOW.

The COSS must deliver a safety briefing to all members of the workgroup before going on or near the line. This briefing details the Safe System of Work, site limits, hazards, access points, and emergency procedures to ensure everyone understands how they will be kept safe. [3, 6, 12]

Under a Safe System of Work where a lookout is used, what is the minimum time you must be in a position of safety before a train arrives?

Answer: 10 seconds

The rules state that when a warning is given, you must move to a position of safety and be there at least 10 seconds before the train arrives. This provides a crucial safety margin. [6, 12, 14]

A PTS holder arrives on site to join a workgroup. What must they do before starting work?

Answer: Receive the full Safe System of Work briefing from the COSS and sign the briefing form.

No one is permitted to start work on or near the line without first receiving and understanding the Safe System of Work briefing from the COSS. The individual must understand the protection arrangements, site limits, and hazards. Signing the briefing sheet confirms this understanding. [2, 3, 7]