Hong Kong Transport Services Business Unit

Railway Safety Rules

Role-based Handbook
for Competent Person (Track)

Approved by:

________________ ________________
Rico Wong Winson Tse
in the capacity of Co-Chairman of
Operations Standards Committee
December 2024

© 2024 MTR Corporation Limited

All rights reserved. Reproduction of this work or any part of it by
whatever means is not permitted without the prior written consent of
MTR Corporation Limited.
 Document Control
Third Issue: December 2024

Steve Chu
Senior Management Systems & Rules Manager
Jason Wong
Assistant Information Officer
Flora Wong
Information Officer
(Editorial Team)

Endorsed by Operations Standards Committee

Benny Ip
Chief Operations Safety System & Support Manager
(Subject Matter Expert)

Rico Wong and Winson Tse

in the capacity of Co-Chairman of Operations Standards Committee
(Document Owner)

Published by:
Operations Safety & Quality Department
Message from the Chairman of
Operations Standards Committee

Care and Be Aware – Safety First!

Safety is an integral part of railway operations. The Railway Safety Rules and
other safety procedures, including this handbook, have been written to ensure
staff’s understanding of the safety principles in order to mitigate the operational
risks.

Competent Person (Track) [CP(T)] is trained and qualified to work on the

railway, to arrange protections for and supervise working parties, and to accept
the safety documents required by the nature of their duties and as defined in
the Rules. CP(T) takes an important role in ensuring the safe operation of
railway and the safety of the people who are working on operating railway.

As a CP(T), staff must ensure the following points when performing their
duties:
• Comply with railway safety rules
• Obtain authorisation
• Ensure his/her own safety responsibility and the safety of others
• Apply protection measures for the risk involved
• Ensure the safety of the railway system as a whole, including passengers.
The work itself should not create risk to the railway system.

We hope every staff member can understand and abide by the safety
requirements of this handbook in light of the risk-based approach when
performing their works, so that each process and every detail of track works
can be carried out safely and smoothly, and the safety of railway operations
can be maintained.

Rico Wong and Winson Tse

Co-Chairmen of Operations Standards Committee
Purpose of Role-based Handbook

A series of Railway Safety Rules Role-based Handbook is developed with the

aim of providing a handy reference for the staff who are required to fulfil
specific safety requirements in Railway Safety Rules to ensure the safety of
railway operation.

Roles with critical safety responsibilities in works on operating railway are

chosen for publication. One role one handbook. Based on that specific role,
each handbook summaries its job duties, safety responsibilities and duties
under the health and safety legislations.

The handbooks will be reviewed and updated every 3 years to ensure the
contents are in line with the latest operational arrangements and practices.
Note:
All QR codes in this handbook are for MTR Email account holder only and authentication
process is required.
 Contents

ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................................................... 1
GLOSSARY ............................................................................................................................ 2
ROLES OF CP(T) .................................................................................................................... 6
CP(T)’S SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................................. 7
ACQUISITION OF QUALIFICATIONS .................................................................................... 8
UNIT 1 REPORTING DUTY TO LANDLORD ....................................................................... 11
UNIT 2 SAFETY BRIEFINGS................................................................................................ 13
UNIT 3 SWITCHING, ISOLATION AND EARTHING OF TRACTION CURRENT ................ 15
UNIT 4 TRACK ACCESS DURING TRAFFIC HOURS......................................................... 19
UNIT 5 TRACK ACCESS DURING THE TRANSITION FROM TRAFFIC HOURS TO NON-
TRAFFIC HOURS ..................................................................................................... 23
UNIT 6 TRACK ACCESS DURING NON-TRAFFIC HOURS ............................................... 25
UNIT 7 ENGINEER’S POSSESSION WORKS ..................................................................... 29
UNIT 8 ARRANGEMENTS FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE ........................................ 35
APPENDIX 1 CP(T) CARING SCHEME ............................................................................... 37
APPENDIX 2 CP(T) SAFETY BRIEFING AND RECORD .................................................... 39
APPENDIX 3 TEN CRITICAL MOMENTS FOR POSSESSION MANAGEMENT ................ 41
APPENDIX 4 CONTACT INFORMATION TABLE – POSSESSION / NON-POSSESSION
INVOLVED WORKS ....................................................................................... 42
APPENDIX 5 RADIO COMMUNICATION – KEY WORDS................................................... 43
APPENDIX 6 RADIO COMMUNICATION – PHONETIC ALPHABET .................................. 44
Intentionally Blank
Abbreviations

Abbreviation Full Name

CBE Computer-based Examination

CP(DC) Competent Person (Depot Cleaning)
CP(PTC) Competent Person (Platform Track Cleaning)
CP(T) Competent Person (Track)
EPIC Engineer’s Person-in-Charge
ETMS Engineering Works and Traffic Information Management System
FAO Fully Automatic Operation
IECC Infrastructure Engineering Control Centre
OTD Operations Training Department
PA works Pedestrian Access works
PC Project Controller
PMPI Propelling Movement Proceed Indication
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
RSR Railway Safety Rules
SC Station Controller
SH Section Head
SOMS Station Operations Management System
SRIC Safety Requirements and Information for Contractors
TC Traffic Controller
TN Traffic Notice
TO Train Operator
YM Yard Master

1
Glossary

Term Description

Competent Person (Depot The qualification holder who may only supervise
Cleaning) [CP(DC)] working parties for conducting cleaning work in a
depot, provided that the work does not involve
isolation of overhead line equipment. The scope of
work is limited to the cleaning of rolling stocks,
maintenance tracks and locations other than on or
near tracks (except plant rooms)
Competent Person The qualification holder who may only supervise
(Platform Track Cleaning) working parties for conducting track cleaning work on
[CP(PTC)] station platform tracks (excluding Light Rail), provided
that the work does not involve isolation of overhead
line equipment
Competent Person (Track) The qualification holder who may supervise working
[CP(T)] parties for works on or near tracks which do not
require possession, and works in a depot which
require possession not involving Engineer’s trains,
and may apply protection for any possession as
directed
The person having written approval of the Engineer to
perform duties as defined in the Rules, including
working on the railway or fixed equipment, arranging
protection for and supervising working parties, and
accepting safety documents required by the nature of
their duties
Engineer’s Person-in- A Competent Person having the written approval of
Charge (EPIC) the Engineer to take and supervise possessions, who
must wear an identification when work is in progress
Engineering Works and An information system applied to automate the
Traffic Information engineering works management business process for
Management System enhancement of productivity and safety as well as
(ETMS) maximisation of the time available for railway works
during non-traffic hours

2
 Term Description

Near Miss An incident in which some equipment or safety

measures have failed and could have resulted in an
accident but didn’t
Pedestrian Access work A work, to be done on or near the track, which does
not require possession
Possession A specific section of track or tracks under the sole
control of an EPIC
Traffic Notice (TN) A weekly publication by the Operations Division,
providing operating and engineering information to
staff and contractors. CP(T) should check the update
of the following items:
• Scheduled Engineering works
• Engineer’s trains and engineer’s possessions
• Power supply arrangements
Important
CP(T) must treat TN as an important document and fully understand the details of the
arrangements published in TN and the associated amendments.

3
 Term Description

Traffic Notice (TN), continued The meanings of some common terms frequently
used in TN are given below:
Chainage – a reference to identify a location by
showing the running distance in a unit of kilometre
along the tracks of a railway line from the designated
commencing point (usually at the centre of a station)

Headwall – the departure end of a platform in the

normal direction of service operation

Tailwall – the arrival end of a platform in the normal

direction of service operation

4
 Term Description

Traffic Notice (TN), continued Up Track – A direction normally referring to trains

running north-bound on railway lines (the direction
can be found in official track diagram)
Down Track – A direction normally referring to trains
running towards the city centre at CEN or south-
bound (the direction can be found in official track
diagram)
Important Notes
Up End/Down End Label: Before accessing to track, CP(T) should confirm the
location is correct.

Up End Label Down End Label

5
Roles of CP(T)

CP(T) takes an important role in ensuring the safe operation of railway and the
safety of the people who are working on operating railway.
As a CP(T), he/she must well master the following key principles when
performing his/her duties:
• Realise the risks.
• Understand the rules.
• Arrange/apply protection for and supervise working parties.
• Stop unsafe acts.
• Report anomalies.
This handbook is focusing on the following job scopes where a CP(T) has to
pay special attention to ensure the related RSR requirements have to be
complied.
• Conduct safety briefing before works.
• Switch, isolate and earth traction current.
• Track access during traffic hours, transition from traffic hours to non-traffic
hours, and non-traffic hours.
• Work in engineer’s possession.
• Arrange landscape maintenance.

Remarks:
If you have any uncertainties about the information in this handbook, you shall refer to the
appropriate clauses of the RSR and the current issues of the relevant manuals and
procedures.

6
CP(T)’s Safety Responsibilities

CP(T), who takes charge of the site safety, has to fulfil the following
responsibilities:
• Comply with all requirements in RSR.
• Comply with the SRIC (for contractors ONLY).
• Understand the risk and hazard of works.
• Be responsible for the workers’ safety on site under his/her supervision.
• Ensure that a method statement for the work and an on-site risk
assessment are in place.
• Brief working parties on what is going to be done and how to keep oneself
safe during the work before work starts.
• Ensure working parties understood the details of the safety briefings.
• Communicate effectively with different stakeholders, including TC, EPIC,
SC and all related working parties.
• Follow the proper procedures in reporting incidents, hazards and near
misses.

Scan the QR code to download the following documents:

Railway Safety Rules Safety Requirements and Information for

Contractors

7
Acquisition of Qualifications

How to acquire the qualification of CP(T)?

• Complete the relevant courses provided by OTD and pass the CBE.
• Complete the job attachment
- MTR staff: Complete job attachments of 2 working shifts after the
completion of the classroom training and passing the CBE, and before
attending the oral examination (with Off-site practical assessment).
- Contractor staff: Complete satisfactory job attachments of 4 working shifts
under the supervision of an MTR CP(T) after the completion of the
classroom training and passing the CBE, and before attending the oral
examination (with Off-site practical assessment) which is conducted by
Centralised Qualified Examiner Team.
• Pass the oral examination within 3 months after the completion of classroom
training.
Note: For details, refer to the procedure of “Railway Safety Rules Training and Examinations”
(P/OD/SMS/021).
How to retain the qualification of CP(T)?
• MTR staff:
- Complete a 1-day refresher course once every 2 years.
- Complete at least 2 practices annually.
- Pass the CBE and oral examination annually.
• Contractor staff:
- Complete the relevant OTD course.
- Complete at least 1 job practice within 3 months.
- Pass the OTD examination.
- Pass the Oral examination which is conducted by Centralised Qualified
Examiner Team.
Note: For details, refer to the procedure of “Railway Safety Rules Training and Examinations”
(P/OD/SMS/021).

8
Caring Scheme for CP(T)
The scheme is applicable to all newly qualified CP(T), including those of MTR staff,
contractors and external parties, who have no previous CP(T) experience, or re-obtain the
qualification after suspension or disqualification.
Relevant CP(T) must take the following actions:
• In the first 5 practices of CP(T) duty after being qualified, affix a blue “C” badge on hi-vi
vest and notify the concerned EPIC/TC/SyC/SC/YM that he/she is a CP(T) undergoing
caring scheme.
IMPORTANT
The qualification of CP(T) will be suspended if the CP(T) does not follow this
requirement.
• Complete the Caring Scheme Record (OP301) after each practice (see Appendix 1).
• After the first 5 practices of CP(T) duties, return the completed Caring Scheme Record
to the corresponding MTR supervisor/PC/representative for retention and affix an
orange colour “C” badge on hi-vi vest in the subsequent CP(T) duties.

9
Revocation of Railway Qualifications due to Non-compliance or
Incompetence
The revocation is classified into “Temporary Suspension”, “Suspension”,
“Disqualification” and “Blacklisting” (MTR contractors only). The durations
and conditions of restoration of revocation of Railway Qualifications are
summarised in the table below:

MTR Staff MTR Contractors

Temporary • Concerned Railway Qualification(s) • Concerned Railway Qualification(s)
Suspension of the MTR staff member will be of the MTR contractor will be
revoked for a time period as revoked for a time period as
requested requested
• The SH of the MTR staff member • The PC of the MTR contractor could
could arrange to restore the revoked apply for restoring the revoked
qualification(s) qualification(s)
Suspension • Concerned Railway Qualification(s) • Concerned Railway Qualification(s)
of the MTR staff member will be of the MTR contractor will be
revoked for a time period as revoked for 12 months
requested • The PC could arrange to restore the
• The SH could arrange to restore the revoked qualification(s), after the
revoked qualification(s), after the MTR contractor has completed the
MTR staff member has completed full training and qualification process
the full training and qualification
process
Disqualification • Concerned Railway Qualification(s) • Concerned Railway Qualification(s)
of MTR staff member will be of the MTR contractor will be
revoked for 12 months revoked permanently
• The SH could arrange to restore the • The revoked qualification(s) could
revoked qualification(s), after the not be restored
MTR staff member has completed
the full training and qualification
process
Blacklisting N/A • All Railway Qualification(s) of the
MTR contractor will be revoked
permanently
• The MTR contractor is no longer
eligible for any Railway
Qualifications

10
Unit 1 Reporting Duty to Landlord

When a CP(T) arrives at a worksite, he/she must report duty to the landlord
so that the landlord will ascertain and record his/her appropriate
qualification and other applicable railway qualifications in the SOMS and
the ETMS. If neither SOMS nor ETMS are available (e.g., during works
train operation), prior to the protection arrangement and work
commencement at the location, the CP(T) must provide the following
details to the landlord when reporting duty:
• His / her name
• Name of the contractor
• Nature of work
• Limits of the worksite
• Access/egress location to/from the track
• Number of persons in the working party
• Duration of work
• Protection arrangements
• Isolation arrangements
• Means of communication

11
12
Unit 2 Safety Briefings

CP(T) must brief the working party before work starts. The safety
briefings must principally cover the following contents:
• Hazards involved in or caused by the work
• Safety precautions that must be taken
• Limits of the worksite
• The designated evacuation route and assembly point
• Use of PPE

All safety briefings must be properly delivered and

recorded. CP(T) can use OP302 “Competent Person –
Safety Briefing and Work Record” (see Appendix 2) for
recording of the safety briefings.

13
14
Unit 3 Switching, Isolation and Earthing
of Traction Current

If a work requires the traction current to be switched off for protecting the
working party within the worksite, the CP(T) must have been trained and
qualified in the application of earthing rod.

Application of Earthing Rods

When an earthing rod is to be applied, the CP(T) must take the following
actions:
Step Action
1 Ensure that it is safe to proceed to and work on the track.
2 • Obtain a Live Line Tester (for testing the status of the overhead
line) and an Earthing Rod (unextended) with clamp and cable.
• Place the Earthing Rod adjacent to the rail immediately under the
agreed application point.
Note:
1. A self-test must be done on site to confirm that the Live Line Tester
functions correctly before every use.
2. Failure to use a correctly functioning Live Line Tester can result in
an earthing rod being placed on a live conductor, with a consequent
danger of severe shock or electrocution to the earthing rod user.
3 Install the rail clamp on the traction return rail head and tighten the
securing handle.
Note:
1. The rail clamp can be placed on either one of the 2 running rails in
plain running and connection tracks. In areas where there are
points and crossings and at all locations in depots where single rail
track circuit configurations are used, the clamp must be applied to
the traction return rail only.
2. On 25kVAC electrified lines, the clamp may be applied to an
overhead line equipment mast instead of a running rail.
4 Extend the Earthing Rod at ground level to the required length.

15
Step Action
5 Ensure that the adjustable clamp jaws are unscrewed, ready to fit over the
overhead conductor wire (i.e. auxiliary feeder wire, contact wire, cantilever
arm or designated earthing point of the Overhead Rigid Conductor Rail).
6 After proving the system is not live by the use of a Live Line Tester, lift the
Earthing Rod and place the adjustable clamp jaws on the following:
• Auxiliary feeder wire
• Contact wire
• Cantilever arm (on the contact wire side of the insulator)
• Designated earthing point of the Overhead Rigid Conductor Rail

7 Tighten the adjustable clamp jaws.

8 On AC electrified tracks, the earthing rod pole may be removed.
9 The earthing rod must be protected by a red flashing light (engineering
work).

16
Removing the Earthing Rods
When removing an earthing rod, the CP(T) must take the following
actions:

Step Action
1 Disconnect the adjustable clamp from the overhead line equipment.
2 Place the bottom end of the Earthing Rod firmly on the ground.
3 Lower the rod gradually and diagonally.
4 When the Earthing Rod is entirely on the ground:
• loosen the securing knob
• retract the extensible rod
5 Disconnect the earth clamp from the rail head to complete the removal
of the Earthing Rod.

Note:
• The Earthing Rod must not be held vertically, during the retraction
process, to prevent sudden sliding of the extensible rod.
• The red flashing light (engineering work), if any, must be retrieved after
removal of the Earthing Rod.

17
Intentionally Blank

18
Unit 4 Track Access During Traffic
Hours

Where access to the track during traffic hours is required, the working
party must be protected from the hazard of being hit by trains by taking
appropriate actions.

Work Affecting Signalling Equipment (RSR F6.2.2)

(RSR F6.2.4)
Although possession need not be taken for works affecting signalling
equipment during or which will extend into traffic hours, the CP(T) is still
required to take the following actions:
1. Agree with the TC and SC/YM on work details including signals,
track circuits and points affected, the effect of any disconnection,
and arrangements for working of trains.
2. Before disconnecting or repairing fixed signalling equipment,
prevent train movement under Automatic Mode, Fully Automatic
Operation Mode or Coded Manual Mode at the affected zone
where appropriate, by:
- Maintaining the concerned signals or indicators at danger
- Cancelling the concerned routes or computer-controlled routes
- Occupying the concerned track circuits or closing the tracks
- Locking the concerned points in appropriate direction.
3. Before disconnecting signalling equipment that may affect train
operation in Fully Automatic Operation mode, arrange with the
Traffic Controller to deploy Train Operators to operate all trains.
4. Before disconnecting signalling remote control equipment, arrange
for local control of relevant interlocking areas.

19
5. Before commencing work on a Light Rail fixed signal, if there is a
possibility of conflicting movements at an associated road junction,
request Police to switch off the traffic signal controller and to direct
traffic.
6. Before commencing work on a Light Rail points indicator or motorised
points, switch off the affected indicators.
7. Appoint Handsignalmen as necessary to authorise trains to pass
signals or indicators disconnected or maintained at danger, occupied
track circuits or closed tracks and arrange the safety measures
referring to the nature of the work.
8. When work is completed, the CP(T) must ensure the following:
a. All signalling equipment is properly tested before it is restored to
normal use.
b. When train control data has been modified, trainborne computers
are reset on all trains in the area at the time.
c. All protection is removed.
9. Inform TC and SC/YM the completion of works.

20
Works Requiring Track Access (RSR-EN F8.3)
To conduct works requiring track access, the CP(T) must take the
following actions:
1. Provide the details and nature of work to TC and SC for running /
connection track; or to YM for depot side of reception track.
2. Agree with TC/SC/YM on the means for track access, duration on
track, protection arrangements, special instructions and means of
communication.
3. Brief all members of the working party and obtain confirmation of
that they understand all safety arrangements.
4. Obtain authorisation before track access.
5. Put protection and safety arrangements in place (standing trains,
Lookoutmen, temporary speed restrictions, switch off impulse fans
etc.).
6. For protection by a standing train, collect the TO’s controller key.
7. When the work is completed or the time limit is up, whichever is
earlier, ensure the track is clear and withdraw all protection
arrangements. If standing train protection is applied, return the
controller key to the TO.
8. Inform TC/SC/YM the completion of works.

See the video about obtaining

authorisation for works which
does not require possession

21
Crossing Track (Except Light Rail) (RSR F6.8)
If there is a need for a working party to cross the mainline or connection
tracks in an open section in the course of work, the CP(T) must take the
following actions:
1. Ensure that there are places of safety at both the departure and
destination points of crossing.
2. Obtain authorisation from TC.
3. Be familiar with the route of crossing the track.
4. Inform TC the exact location of the working party from which they cross
the track.
5. State the reason(s) for crossing the track and the number of persons
who require to cross the track.
6. Reach a complete understanding with TC on the protection
arrangement.
7. Ensure that no more than 6 persons including himself crossing the track
each time.
8. Not allow the working party to cross the track until confirmation is
received from TC that the agreed protection arrangement has been
made.
9. Inform TC for removal of the protection arrangement after the working
party has crossed the track and arrived at a place of safety.

See the video about crossing track

(Except Light Rail)

Note:
To restrict the number of persons crossing the track is to ensure that the
CP(T) can supervise all of them completing the crossing safely within the
allowed time.

22
Unit 5 Track Access During the Transition
from Traffic Hours to Non-Traffic Hours

Track Access during the Transition from Traffic (RSR-EN F4.4.1)

Hours to Non-Traffic Hours
If the track access work is within a possession area, the CP(T) must
wait until the track ownership is transferred to the EPIC and make the
request to the EPIC for access to track during non-traffic hours.

23
Intentionally Blank

24
Unit 6 Track Access During Non-Traffic
Hours

For either scheduled or unscheduled track access works during non-

traffic hours, CP(T) must strictly observe the requirements in the
following aspects to ensure staff’s safety.
• Obtain authorisation from TC or EPIC.
• Arrange protections for PA works in “An Area Closer to Track Than a
Place of Safety”.
• Arrange protections for works requiring switching off traction current.
• Announce work completion.

Obtain Authorisation (RSR F7.2)

1. When a PA work is to be done, the CP(T) must obtain
authorisation from:
• the TC, if it is to be carried out outside any possession area; or
• the EPIC concerned, if it is to be carried out within a
possession.
2. Before requesting authorisation for access to the track, the CP(T)
must confirm that:
• traction current has been switched off on lines where it is
normally switched off during non-traffic hours; or
• the last train has run on lines where traction current normally
remains switched on.
All lines except Light Rail, confirm with the SC or IECC, or be
informed by the TC.
For Light Rail, confirm with the TC or IECC.

25
Protection for PA Work in an Area Closer to Track (RSR F7.3)
than a Place of Safety
When a PA work (excluding patrolling and inspection) is to be done in an
area closer to track than a place of safety, the CP(T) in charge of the
worksite must arrange to place a red flashing light (PA work), which can be
seen from the approaching direction along the track at least 50 metres
away,
• at each end of the working area, including the junction or crossover
connecting other tracks; or
• at a suitable position beyond working area, if the visible distance of the
red flashing light (PA work) at the end of working area is less than 50
meters.

Note and Good Practice

• Working area is an area within a worksite and defined by the CP, where a
working party is conducting works within a time period.
• During the works, CP(T) shall take the following actions:
­ Keep a log of the red flashing lights chainage locations.
­ Attach your personal label to the red flashing lights.

See the video of how to apply

Red Flashing Light (PA work)

26
Protection for Work Requires Traction Current to be (RSR F7.4)
Switched Off
When a PA work is conducted in a worksite where traction current is
required to be switch off, CP(T) in charge of the worksite must arrange
protections for the working party as follows:

• If traction current requires to be switched off for the work where

traction current remains switched on in the adjacent section at one or
both ends of the respective isolator(s), a distance of not less than 50
metres must be maintained between the worksite boundaries and the
respective isolators to provide a safety buffer.
• The worksite boundaries must be clearly indicated and made visible
to working parties by placing red flashing lights (engineering work),
reflective barricade tapes or plastic netting.

Completion of Work (RSR F7.5)

On completion of work, the CP(T) must take the following actions:
• Inform the SC, and the TC or the EPIC when all persons, tools and
materials are clear of the tracks.
• If completion of work may delay switching on of traction current or
passenger train service, inform the TC and agree on the estimated
additional time required and any special arrangements.

27
Intentionally Blank

28
Unit 7 Engineer’s Possession Works

29
To ensure the RSR have been well implemented for works involving
engineer’s possession, CP(T) must observe and pay special attention to the
Top 10 Safety Critical Moments of Possession Management (see
Appendix 3) under the following 4 phases of work:
• Planning
• Preparation
• Work
• Track Clear

Top 10 Safety Critical Moments of Possession Management

Planning
Safety Critical Moment No. 1 | Pre-work Planning
• Understand the detailed arrangements published in TNs and their associated
amendments.
• Make appropriate entries in ETMS for requirements and information of
working on tracks.
• Check for updates in TNs and ETMS.
Preparation
Safety Critical Moment No. 2 | Safety Briefing (RSR-EN F3.2.2)

• Attend the safety briefing of engineer’s possession and reach a complete

understanding on the possession work arrangements.
• For scheduled works, inform the EPIC the intended working time and
location as early as possible before the safety briefing.
• Do attend the safety briefing if any unscheduled works are intended to carry
out so as to ensure that, if practicable, the activity is understood and
managed safely by working parties with train movements.
• Don’t disturb the possession safety briefing by EPIC to avoid confusion.
• Ensure that all information in the safety briefings must be properly
communicated and recorded.

30
Top 10 Safety Critical Moments of Possession Management
Safety Critical Moment No. 3 | Authorisation for Track Access
• Communicate with SC or IECC to confirm the non-traffic hours
• Obtain authorisation from the EPIC or TC before track access
• Report duty to SC before accessing to track
• Use the SafeTrack app to scan the NFC tag on-site, and send a track
access requisition to the TC (For PA/SPA Works only)
• Confirm the traction current has been switched off on lines where it is
normally switched off during non-traffic hours
Work
Safety Critical Moment No. 4 | Protection Arrangement (RSR-EN F5.5.4)

• Set up protection at both ends of the worksite when directed by the

EPIC and confirm that it has been completed.
• Set up protection in accordance with the requirements of RSR (e.g. use
of red flashing lights and temporary earth).
• Use a record of the required protection arrangements to brief staff prior
to going on site.
• Require staff to read back instructions for placement of protection to
ensure correct understanding.
• Verify locations against the agreed protection arrangements when
placing protection devices.
• Confirm with EPIC by radio when all protections are in place.
• Apply proper PPE.
• Avoid using improper tools and equipment (e.g., umbrella).

Note and Good Practice

To ensure the CP(T) has the capacity to supervise the on-site works, the
maximum number of workers must be under 20; if more than 20, a site
safety supervisor shall be assigned to assist the supervision work.

31
Safety Critical Moment No. 5 | Communications (SOP Ch. 1)

• Use radio and observe the voice procedure for communication.

• Use the phonetic alphabet and the radio callsigns.
• Make your messages accurate, brief and clear (ABC).
• The caller and recipient must clearly identify each other at the beginning
of each message to ensure that a message is being correctly delivered.
• Read back messages to the caller to ensure that the messages are
correctly received and action will be strictly compliant,
­ when necessary for mutual understanding;
­ always when a message concerns safety or emergency.
(See Appendix 4 for communication protocol and radio callsigns.)
Note and Good Practice
The caller and recipient must clearly identify each other at the beginning of
each message to ensure that a message is being correctly delivered.

See the video about

radio communication in
engineer’s possession

Safety Critical Moment No. 6 | Engineer’s Train Operation

• Reach a complete understanding with the EPIC regarding the work
arrangement, and confirm that the route and position of the point are
correct on-site before authorising the engineer’s train to operate.
• Obtain authorisation from EPIC for any train movement.
(For reference only)
Safety Critical Moment No. 7 | Propelling Movement
• Observe handsignals or use the PMPI equipment for propelling movement
of the engineer’s train.
• Don’t use radio or other communication devices for propelling the
engineer’s train.
(For reference only)

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Top 10 Safety Critical Moments of Possession Management
Safety Critical Moment No. 8 | Red Flashing Lights

• Don’t enter into the worksite or possession protected by red flashing

lights.
• Stop train movement when seeing the red flashing lights and ask for
further information/instruction from the EPIC or TC.
(For reference only)
• Where there is train movement through the worksite, CP(T) must take
the following actions: (RSR-EN F2.5.3)
­ Remove tools, materials and red flashing lights (pedestrian access
work) and move clear of the track when the EPIC / CP (Possession)
informs the CP(T) that there will be a train movement through the
CP(T)’s working area.
­ Confirm to the EPIC / CP (Possession) when arrived at a place of
safety.
­ Stay clear of the worksite until the EPIC / CP (Possession) has
confirmed that train has left the CP(T)’s location.
­ Ensure that the tracks are cleared and provide the track clear
message to the EPIC/ CP (Possession) when all persons, tools and
materials (including protective measures) are clear of the track.
Track Clear
Safety Critical Moment No.9 | Leaving the Worksite on the Completion of
Works
• Speak directly to the staff assigned to remove the protection for the
worksite.
• Ensure the tracks are cleared and provide the track clear message to
the EPIC when all persons, tools and materials (including protective
measures) are clear of the track.
• After the work is completed, use the SafeTrack app to scan the NFC
tag on-site to confirm that the working parties have left the track. (For
PA/SPA Works only)
Safety Critical Moment No.10 | Return of Engineer’s Train to Depot
Check to ensure that the loads are properly secured before any train
movement. (For reference only)
33
34
Unit 8 Arrangements for Landscape
Maintenance

Landscape maintenance is a scheduled work which will be carried out on

AEL, TCL, DRL, EAL and TML. The CP(T) in charge must follow the
guidelines and procedures below for the maintenance work. (see DRL,
Section N)

General Guidelines
The CP(T) must take the following actions when conducting the
landscape maintenance works:
• Supervise the working party to ensure compliance with the provisions
of RSR.
• Appoint a Lookoutman to protect and warn workers who are working
on or near the track.
• Ensure the Lookoutman be equipped with a hand-held portable radio
for communication with System Controller to stop the train operated in
FAO mode in case of emergency.
• Brief properly the working party prior to the commencement of work if
the preventive maintenance work is carried out during traffic hours.
• Ensure the maximum number of workers of the working party is 6.
• Must not allow cross track activities for preventive maintenance during
traffic hours.
• For preventive maintenance work within 1.8m/2.8m (according to the
place of safety in different lines) from the trackside, arrange it to be
done during Non-Traffic Hours.

35
Procedure of the Arrangement of Landscape Maintenance Work
The CP(T) must observe the following procedure:
• Report to SC for the maintenance work.
• Sign against the entry on the SOMS for obtaining the key to the trackside
access gate.
• Reach a complete understanding with the TC/System Controller
regarding the following issues:
­ Protection arrangements
­ Extent of the worksite
­ Point of access and egress
­ Duration of the work
­ Radio callsigns or mobile phone numbers
• Take road transport to the designated trackside access gate.
• Obtain authorisation from TC/System Controller prior to opening the gate.
• Lock up the gate after all staff have entered.
• Arrange to delineate the worksite.
• Assign sufficient Lookoutmen to protect the working party.
• Upon completion of work,
­ Ensure the worksite is clear of persons, tools and materials.
­ Remove the reflective tapes.
­ Inform the TC/System Controller.
­ Lock the gate.
­ Complete the entry on SOMS and return the key to SC.

36
Appendix 1 CP(T) Caring Scheme

37
38
Appendix 2 CP(T) Safety Briefing and
Record

39
40
Appendix 3 Ten Critical Moments for
Possession Management

41
 Appendix 4 Contact Information Table – Possession
/ Non-Possession Involved Works

Type of Works
Possession Involved Non-Possession Involved
(E.g. Possession work) (E.g. PA / SPA Works)
Scenario

Entering EPIC TC
the worksite • by phone / radio1 • by phone, and/or
• by SafeTrack app
(Scan the NFC tag
on-site)
Exiting
the worksite

1
The choice of contact method is subject to the agreement with the EPIC.

42
Appendix 5 Radio Communication – Key
Words

Radio Communication – Key Words

Word Meaning
All stations To indicate that a collective call to all stations is being made
Correct, or Affirmative To indicate that a message has been correctly received
Difficult To indicate that the signal received by a particular station is
weak during radio check
Emergency To indicate an emergency message
I spell To preface words to be spelt in phonetic alphabet
Ignore TIC To tell the Passenger Train Operator to ignore the Time Interval
Clock and depart from the platform after platform duty
Message To indicate that a message is to be sent
Nothing heard To indicate that a message has not been acknowledged
Okay (OK) To indicate that the signal received by a particular station is okay
during radio check
Obey signal To indicate that train should proceed according to fixed signals
and proceed codes or handsignals
Out To indicate at the end of a message that a reply is not required
Over To indicate at the end of a message that a reply is required
Radio check To check that a signal is received
Read back message To indicate that a message should be repeated by the receiver
to ensure it has been correctly understood
Roger To indicate that a message has been received and understood
Say again To request the sender to repeat the message
Send To indicate readiness to receive a message
So far To request acknowledgement of a part of a longer message
Wait To indicate a pause in a message
Wilco To indicate that a message has been received, understood, and
will be acted on
Wrong, or Negative To indicate that a message has been incorrectly received

See the video about radio communication

43
Appendix 6 Radio Communication – Phonetic
Alphabet

Phonetic Alphabet
During difficult conditions or when there is any risk that a word may be
misheard or misunderstood, the standard international phonetic alphabet
must be used to spell out words:

Letter Phonetic Letter Phonetic

A Alpha N November
B Bravo (brah-vo) O Oscar
C Charlie P Papa (pah-pah)
D Delta Q Quebec
(kwi-beck)
E Echo R Romeo
F Foxtrot S Sierra
G Golf T Tango
H Hotel U Uniform
I India V Victor
J Juliet W Whisky
K Kilo X X-ray
L Lima Y Yankee
M Mike Z Zulu

44