PTS - Personal Track Safety Working Near Electrified Lines Flashcards

What is the standard voltage of the 25kV AC overhead line electrification (OLE) system used on many Network Rail main lines?

Answer: 25,000 volts AC

The overhead line electrification (OLE) on Network Rail AC routes operates at 25,000 volts (25kV) AC, which is lethal at any distance without proper isolation.

What is the minimum clearance distance that PTS holders must maintain from an energised 25kV overhead line?

Answer: Workers must not approach within 600mm of energised OLE equipment — and in practice should remain further away as arc distance is greater

PTS holders must maintain a minimum distance from energised OLE and must not approach within the danger zone without the OLE being isolated and earthed by a qualified Overhead Line Engineer.

What must a COSS do when planning work that may bring workers or equipment close to the 750V DC third rail?

Answer: Obtain a third rail isolation for the relevant section, confirmed by a qualified Traction Electrical Engineer, before allowing any work where accidental contact is possible

A third rail isolation must be obtained from a qualified Traction Electrical Engineer before any work is planned that could result in accidental contact with the 750V DC third rail.

What should a PTS holder do if they see a colleague accidentally contact the 750V DC third rail?

Answer: Do NOT touch them — electrical current will pass through you too. Cut or isolate the power if possible, call 999, and call for emergency assistance using SPT

Never touch someone in contact with live electricity — you will also be electrocuted. Isolate power if possible, call 999, and activate SPT to stop trains.

Why must conductive tools and equipment be kept a safe distance from the third rail even during approved track work?

Answer: Metal tools can complete an electrical circuit between the third rail and earth or adjacent rail, causing electrocution or equipment damage even when workers do not touch the rail directly

Conductive tools bridging the third rail to an earthed surface create an electrical circuit — workers holding the tool can be electrocuted even without directly touching the third rail.

What is an 'OLE possession' and what does it enable workers to do that they cannot do under normal conditions?

Answer: An OLE possession formally isolates and earths overhead line equipment, allowing workers to work on or near the OLE without electrocution risk

An OLE possession involves the formal isolation and earthing of overhead line equipment, enabling workers to work on or near OLE that would otherwise be lethal.