Railway Group Standard Requirements for Level Crossings Synopsis This document mandates the requirements for the design, construction, inspection, maintenance, operation and decommissioning of level crossings. Signatures removed from electronic version Submitted by Paul Woolford Project Manager Authorised by Copyright in the Railway Group Standards is owned by Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited. All rights are hereby reserved. No Railway Group Standard (in whole or in part) may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or means, without the prior written permission of Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited, or as expressly permitted by law. In circumstances where Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited has granted a particular person or organisation permission to copy extracts from Railway Group Standards, Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited accepts no responsibility for, and excludes all liability in connection with, the use of such extracts, or any claims arising therefrom. This disclaimer applies to all forms of media in which extracts from Railway Group Standards may be reproduced. Anne Blakeney Acting Department Head Railway Group Standards Management Published by: Rail Safety and Standards Board Evergreen House 160 Euston Road London NW1 2DX Copyright 2004 Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited
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Railway Group Standard Page 1 of 68 Contents Section Description Page Part A A1 Issue record 3 A2 Implementation of this document 3 A3 Scope of Railway Group Standards 4 A4 Responsibilities 4 A5 Health and safety responsibilities 5 A6 Technical content 5 A7 Supply 5 Part B B1 Purpose 6 B2 Application of this document 6 B3 Definitions 8 B4 Principles 13 B5 Introduction: Alterations to level crossings 14 Part C Level crossing control measures C1 Minimum combinations of level crossing control measures 15 C2 Lifting barriers 15 C3 Gates and stiles 17 C4 Fixed signs and road markings 18 C5 Telephones to signaller or crossing keeper 19 C6 Active visible warnings 20 C7 Active audible warnings 21 Part D Telephone systems at level crossings D1 General requirements for level crossing telephone systems 23 D2 Positioning of telephones 25 D3 Labelling of level crossing telephones for use of crossing user 26 D4 Labelling of level crossing telephones for use of railway staff 26 D5 Labelling of equipment at the control or supervising point 27 D6 Additional requirements for crossings worked by automatic control systems monitored by a signaller 27 Part E Signalling and control systems at level crossings E1 Crossings with white light indicators 29 E2 Crossings with red/green lights 29 E3 Crossings worked by an automatic control system, monitored by train crew 30 E4 Crossings worked by an automatic control system, monitored remotely by signaller 33 E5 Crossings worked by train crew 37 E6 Crossings worked by signallers or crossing keepers 38 E7 Operational sequences for barrier crossings 41 E8 Bidirectional controls at automatic crossings 42 E9 General signalling requirements 42 E10 Identification of crossing locations at control and supervising points 43 E11 Local control units 43 E12 Monitoring equipment (event recorders) 44 E13 Sighting of lineside signs and indicators associated with level crosssings 44 E14 Automatic open crossings, locally monitored 45 Part F Track and electrification systems at level crossings F1 Track system 46 F2 Electrification 46 Part G Level crossing geometry and surfaces G1 Geometry of crossings used by road vehicles 48 G2 Crossing surfaces 49 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 1
Railway Group Standard Page 2 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 Part H Lighting and CCTV systems at level crossings H1 General requirements 51 H2 Controlled crossings viewed by CCTV 51 H3 Controlled crossings viewed directly 52 Part J Construction, testing and commissioning of level crossings J1 Arrangements before construction takes place 54 J2 Testing and commissioning 54 J3 Keeping users informed 54 J4 Observing operation and use of automatic crossings after commissioning 54 Part K Operation, maintenance and inspection of level crossings K1 Naming of level crossings 56 K2 Instructions to signallers 56 K3 Instructions to users of user-worked crossings 57 K4 Inspection of crossings 57 K5 Follow-up to inspections of crossings 59 K6 Investigation of complaints from users of crossings 59 K7 Maintenance of lighting installations 59 K8 Control of vegetation 59 K9 Engineering work affecting the operation of crossings 60 K10 Temporary speed restrictions through crossings 60 K11 Records of level crossings 60 Part L Change of legal status and decommissioning of level crossings following closure L1 Crossings to be closed 62 L2 Complete closure of a crossing 62 L3 Change of legal status of a crossing 62 L4 Closure of a public road crossing to vehicular traffic 63 Appendix 1 Controls for automatic open crossings, locally monitored 64 References 68 Note: Part I has not been used, to avoid potential confusion between upper case I, lower case L and the number 1. 2 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 3 of 68 A1 Issue record Part A Issue Date Comments One 7 August 2004 Original document supersedes either wholly or in part the following standards: GC/RT5208; GK/RT0029; GK/RT0183; GK/RT0300; GK/RT0306; GM/TT0146; GO/OT0003; GO/OT0011; STDG025; TTI BTEL 9034 This document will be updated when necessary by distribution of a complete replacement. A2 Implementation of this document The publication date of this document is 7 August 2004. This document comes into force on 2 October 2004. The dates by which compliance with the requirements of this document is to be achieved are set out in Part B2. Where those dates are later than the date on which this document comes into force, this is to give Railway Group members additional time to plan and commence implementation so as to achieve full compliance by the dates set out in Part B2. This document supersedes the following Railway Group Standards, either in whole or in part as indicated: Railway Group Standard Issue No. Title RGS sections superseded by this document Date(s) as of which sections are superseded GC/RT5208 1 Civil Engineering Requirements for Level Crossings All except section 6.2 2 October 2004 GK/RT0029 1 Train Activated Warning Systems GK/RT0183 1 Provision of Telephones at Level Crossings GK/RT0300 1 Level Crossing Audible Warnings GK/RT0306 1 Level Crossing Local Control Unit Appendix A 2 October 2004 All 2 October 2004 All 2 October 2004 All 2 October 2004 GM/TT0146 1 Lighting of Railway Premises GO/OT0003 1 Protection at Occupation and Accommodation Level Crossings Sections 11.1 and 13, and Appendix B All except sections 4.1, 4.2, 4.4 and 7.1 2 October 2004 2 October 2004 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 3
Railway Group Standard Page 4 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 Railway Group Standard Issue No. Title RGS sections superseded by this document Date(s) as of which sections are superseded GO/OT0011 1 Protection at Footpath and Bridleway Level Crossings All except sections 3 and 4 (part) 2 October 2004 STDG025 1 Quartz-Halogen Level Crossing Road Traffic Signals All 2 October 2004 TTI BTEL 9034 1 Testing Telephones at Level Crossings All 2 October 2004 GC/RT5208 section 6.2 was superseded by GC/RT5021 and therefore GC/RT5208 is withdrawn from 2 October 2004. As other parts of GM/TT0146 were superseded by GI/RT7010, GM/TT0146 is therefore withdrawn from 2 October 2004. Other parts of GO/OT0003 and GO/OT0011 were superseded by GI/RT7011. The ex-br suite of Level Crossing Principles contains a number of documents that have not been explicitly adopted as Railway Group Standards, although they were referred to in that context in the now withdrawn STDG027. Although cannot supersede documents that are not Railway Group Standards, it is expected that will be used in preference to the ex-br documents. A3 Scope of Railway Group Standards A4 Responsibilities The overall scope of Railway Group Standards is set out in the Railway Group Standards Code. The specific scope of this document is set out in Part B2. Railway Group Standards are mandatory on all members of the Railway Group* and apply to all relevant activities that fall into the scope of each individual s Railway Safety Case. If any of those activities are performed by a contractor, the contractor s obligation in respect of Railway Group Standards is determined by the terms of the contract between the respective parties. Where a contractor is a duty holder of a Railway Safety Case then Railway Group Standards apply directly to the activities described in the Safety Case. * The Railway Group comprises Network Rail Infrastructure Limited, Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited, and the train and station operators who hold railway safety cases for operation on or related to infrastructure controlled by Network Rail Infrastructure Limited. Network Rail Infrastructure Limited is also known as Network Rail. Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited is also known as RSSB. 4 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 5 of 68 A5 Health and safety responsibilities A6 Technical content Each Railway Group member is reminded of the need to consider its own responsibilities to ensure health and safety at work and its own duties under health and safety legislation. RSSB does not warrant that compliance with all or any documents published by RSSB is sufficient in itself to ensure safe systems of work or operation or to satisfy such responsibilities or duties. The technical content of this document has been approved by: Jeff Allan, Principal Signalling and Telecommunications Engineer, RSSB Jon Taylor, Principal Track and Structures Engineer, RSSB Richard Evans, Principal, Operations, RSSB Haydn Peers, Principal Plant Engineer, RSSB. Enquiries should be directed to RSSB Tel: 020 7904 7518 or e-mail enquiries@rssb.co.uk. A7 Supply Controlled and uncontrolled copies of this document may be obtained from the Corporate Communications Dept, Rail Safety and Standards Board, Evergreen House, 160 Euston Road, London NW1 2DX. Railway Group Standards can also be viewed at www.rssb.co.uk. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 5
Railway Group Standard Page 6 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 B1 Purpose B2 Application of this document Part B This document mandates the requirements for the design, construction, inspection, maintenance, operation and decommissioning of level crossings. B2.1 To whom the requirements apply This document contains requirements that are applicable to duty holders of the infrastructure controller category of Railway Safety Case. B2.2 Compliance requirements B2.2.1 Compliance with Parts C to J inclusive, and Appendix 1 Except as permitted below, the requirements of Parts C to J inclusive and Appendix 1 are mandatory for alterations (as defined in Section B3) to existing level crossings and for new level crossings for which Approval in Principle is given on or after 5 February 2005. Unless required as a result of risk assessment undertaken in accordance with GI/RT7011, action to bring existing level crossings into compliance with the requirements of Parts C to J inclusive and Appendix 1 is not required. It is permissible for the infrastructure controller to designate specific infrastructure projects, ongoing when this document comes into force, for which compliance with the requirements of this document applicable to the design, construction and commissioning of new or altered infrastructure is not mandatory. When designating such projects, the infrastructure controller shall consider: a) its responsibilities under its Railway Safety Case b) the stage reached by the project at the time this document comes into force (for example, approval in principle) c) whether compliance is necessary to ensure compatibility with other parts of the infrastructure d) whether compliance is necessary to facilitate safe interworking having regard to changes to related requirements mandated on another Railway Group member e) the economic impact of compliance, but subject to its Railway Safety Case obligations. Compliance with the requirements of this document relating to inspection, maintenance and in-service condition of infrastructure is mandatory, whether or not the infrastructure concerned is the subject of a designation, as set out above. B2.2.2 Compliance with Part K The requirements of Part K apply to existing and new level crossings. The requirements of Part K shall be complied with no later than 5 February 2005, with the exceptions set out below for existing level crossings: a) Compliance with clause K1.2 (naming of level crossings), so far as it can be achieved without conflicting with existing Level Crossing Orders, is required no later than 1 August 2009. b) Compliance with clause K9.2 (other engineering work in the vicinity of level crossings) is required no later than 6 August 2005. 6 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 7 of 68 c) Compliance with clause K11.1 (requirement to keep records) is required no later than 6 August 2005. B2.2.3 Compliance with Part L The requirements of Part L apply to level crossings when the legal process to close the crossing (either entirely or to vehicular traffic only), or to alter its status, is complete. The requirements of Part L shall be complied with no later than 6 August 2005. B2.2.4 General compliance requirements Until the compliance dates, or the date by which compliance is achieved (if earlier), the applicable requirements of the predecessor documents shall continue to be met (see Part A for details). After the compliance dates, or after the date by which compliance is achieved (if earlier), Railway Group members shall not deviate from the requirements set out in this document. Where it is considered not reasonably practicable to comply with the requirements set out in this document, authorisation not to comply shall be sought in accordance with the Railway Group Standards Code. Level crossings are subject to various legal requirements, including, in some cases, a Level Crossing Order, detailing the layout and operation of the particular crossing. These legal requirements, and the requirements of a Level Crossing Order, take precedence over the requirements of this document. B2.3 Exclusions from the application of this document Crossings of the railway that are provided solely for construction or maintenance purposes on a temporary basis are excluded from the scope of this document. B2.4 Related requirements in other documents Management requirements for the control of vegetation on Network Rail controlled infrastructure are set out in GC/RT5202. Design requirements for the avoidance of direct contact between persons and live parts of electrification equipment are set out in GE/RT8025. These include requirements for conductor rail layout at level crossings and the minimum height of the lowest live part of the overhead line equipment (OLE) above the surface of level crossings. Management requirements for the control of unauthorised access to Network Rail controlled infrastructure are set out in GE/RT8063. Requirements for the acceptance of systems, equipment and materials for use on Network Rail controlled infrastructure are set out in GI/RT7002. Requirements for the provision of new level crossings and the risk assessment and risk review of existing level crossings are set out in GI/RT7011. GI/RT7011 also sets out requirements for selecting types of level crossings for use in particular circumstances, and requirements for level crossings to be closed in certain circumstances. The arrangements for the management and specification of lineside operational safety signs in order to provide consistency of form and presentation throughout the network are set out in GI/RT7033. This standard includes signs required at level crossings. Particular requirements for the testing and commissioning of signalling and operational telecommunications equipment which is to be used as part of Network Rail controlled infrastructure are set out in GK/RT0209. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 7
Railway Group Standard Page 8 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 Requirements for temporary crossings (see clause B2.3) are set out in GO/RT3204 Protection of Temporary Vehicular Level Crossings. B3 Definitions Absence switch A switch located at a level crossing control or supervising point which closes when the railway line is closed to train movements. Operation of the switch introduces alternative arrangements, which allow use of the crossing by road traffic to continue safely while the railway line is closed. Active (visible or audible) warning A device which warns users of the imminent arrival of a train. Such devices can be either visible or audible and can be used in combination. Alteration (of a level crossing) For the purposes of this document, the substantial renewal of all or part of an existing level crossing, which provides a reasonable opportunity to significantly improve the safety performance of the element subject to alteration. Another train coming (ATC) delay time The time delay between the detection of an approaching train, at a point where it maintains the crossing closed to road traffic if it is already closed, and the initiation of the crossing closure sequence if the crossing is open. Another train coming (ATC) strike-in point The position on the approach to an automatic level crossing at which a second or subsequent train maintains the crossing closed to road traffic. Approaches (to a crossing) The road, bridleway or path leading up to a crossing. For the purposes of this document, the approaches, measured from the nearest running rail, extend for 30 m on heavily used vehicular crossings and 20 m on other crossings. Authorised user A person having the legal or contractual right to use a particular level crossing. Automatic control system A system which automatically activates the protective equipment at a level crossing on the approach of a train. Automatic crossing A level crossing where the protective equipment, for example, barriers and active warnings, is automatically activated by the approaching train. The term excludes a manually controlled crossing where automatic lowering and/or automatic raising of the barriers is provided. Automatic lowering The lowering of the barriers at a crossing initiated by a train. Automatic raising The raising of the barriers at a crossing initiated by the passage of a train clear of the crossing. Auto-phone A telephone connected to a telephone exchange. AWS Abbreviated term for automatic warning system. Barriers up (BU) indicator An illuminated indicator that is displayed to the train driver to indicate that the barriers to which it is applicable have risen to the correct position. 8 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 9 of 68 Blocking back The formation of a stationary or slow-moving queue of road traffic over a level crossing, due to road traffic conditions, causing obstruction of the railway line. Bridleway crossing A level crossing for pedestrians, cyclists and horses. Cattle-cum-trespass guard A device provided adjacent to the level crossing surface designed to deter animals from straying, and pedestrians from trespassing, onto the railway. CCTV Abbreviated term for closed circuit television. Closing switch A switch located at a level crossing supervising point which can close while the railway line over the level crossing remains open to train movements. Operation of the switch transfers the level crossing telephones and monitoring circuits to an alternative supervising point. Where the supervising point is a signal box which is provided with a block switch or equivalent for signalling purposes, this device also functions as the closing switch. Closure sequence The sequence of events, initiated by the signaller or crossing keeper or the approach of a train, which applies the protection to the level crossing to prevent users from crossing the railway. Control point The location from which one or more controlled crossings are operated. Controlled crossing A level crossing protected by signals or stop boards where the passage of each train is the subject of a specific action by the signaller, crossing keeper or train crew. Crossing Used in level crossing documentation to mean level crossing, where the continued use of level crossing becomes repetitive and laboured. Crossing attendant A competent person appointed, where required, to provide site supervision or control at a level crossing when the normal means of control is not available. This person is required to work under the instruction of the signaller or crossing keeper. Crossing clear control A control operated by the signaller or crossing keeper, additional to the process of clearing the protecting signal, to confirm that the crossing is clear of obstructions. Crossing keeper A competent person, other than a signaller, appointed at a permanent control point to carry out the normal operating procedure of a level crossing. Crossing length The distance along the road or path between the gates, barriers or stop lines on either side of the railway. Crossing speed The permissible train speed applying between a special speed restriction sign and a locally monitored level crossing. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 9
Railway Group Standard Page 10 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 Crossing surface An installation providing a continuation of the road surface to enable it to be carried across the railway at the same elevation. This term includes all associated support and fixing systems. Crossing width The width of the road or path crossing the railway. Decision point The point at which a level crossing user makes a decision to cross or wait. Default position (of barriers or gates) The position in which level crossing barriers or gates are held until they are specifically moved to permit the passage of a train or level crossing user. Direct line A telephone circuit providing a dedicated link between two points. Driver s level crossing indicator An indicator provided at certain types of level crossing to indicate to the train driver the state of the crossing equipment. Also referred to as a driver s crossing indicator. False clearance The condition where a train detection system indicates that a section is clear when it is occupied by a train. False operation The condition where a train detection system is operated other than by a train. Footpath crossing A public or private pedestrian level crossing. Glare The undesirable visual effect of lighting when viewed at a given angle which may cause visual discomfort (discomfort glare) or visual performance impairment (disability glare). The subjective term 'dazzle' is sometimes used incorrectly for glare. Height gauge A structure over the road at a level crossing that gives a warning to a driver of a road vehicle if the height of the vehicle exceeds the safe height under electrified overhead line equipment. Hunt group A group of telephone lines linked together. Callers dialling either the first number in the group, or a special pilot number, are connected to the first available line in the group. Identification label (for telephones) A label provided to identify the location of a telephone and the purpose for which it is intended to be used. Illuminance The luminous flux density at a surface, measured in lux (the Sl unit of illuminance, equal to one lumen per square m). Illuminance towards observers The illuminance falling on a plane in which the observer is standing. 10 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 11 of 68 Information label (for telephones) A label provided to give information to a telephone user regarding the operation of the telephone, together with location details and who to contact in an emergency. Invitee (of the authorised user of a crossing) A person permitted to use a crossing by the authorised user. Left-hand side (of the road) The left-hand side of the road or carriageway as it would appear to a person approaching the crossing along that road or carriageway. Level crossing An intersection at the same elevation of a road, footpath or bridleway and one or more rail tracks. Level crossing ground plan Scaled and dimensioned drawing(s) showing the position of all equipment and associated features at a level crossing. Level Crossing Order Order authorised under the authority of the Secretary of State, detailing the layout and operation of a particular level crossing. Level crossing warning sign A sign (also known as an advance warning board or AWB) incorporating a St George s Cross, provided on the approach to locally monitored level crossings, to inform the driver to regulate the speed of his train, in order to observe the restriction of speed which applies from the special speed restriction sign. This sign is also used on the approach to crossings worked by train crew. Lift-to-call A method of initiating a call from a telephone simply by lifting the handset from its rest. Local control unit Equipment provided to enable a crossing attendant to locally control a level crossing when the crossing cannot be controlled by the usual means. Locally monitored crossing An automatic level crossing that is monitored locally by the train driver to ensure that the crossing is working correctly before the train passes over it. Maintained illuminance The average illuminance over the reference surface at the worst condition for maintenance. Minimum road open time The shortest time permitted after the road traffic light signals have ceased to show following the passage of one train, before the crossing closure sequence is initiated again for another train. Open crossing A level crossing that has no barriers, gates or road traffic light signals and which is protected only by road traffic signs. Opening sequence The sequence of events, initiated by the signaller or crossing keeper or the train clearing the crossing, which withdraws the level crossing protection, allowing users to cross the railway. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 11
Railway Group Standard Page 12 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 Operational telecommunications Telecommunications equipment, including level crossing telephones, provided for the safe working of the railway network. Overrun The process whereby a train passes a signal protecting a level crossing at danger and in so doing activates the red road traffic light signals. Press-to-call A method of initiating a call from a telephone involving lifting the handset from its rest and pressing a call button. Protecting signal A signal which allows a signaller or crossing keeper to stop a train approaching a crossing. Public Emergency Telephone System Public Emergency Telephone System (PETS) is an emergency telephone system for use by the public, developed to meet the particular requirements for use at some crossings with an automatic control system. Railway staff A person employed in the railway industry, acting in accordance with their duties. Red/green lights Red and green lights providing an active visible warning and operated by approaching trains. Sometimes referred to as miniature stop lights or miniature warning lights. Reset (a level crossing) The action by the level crossing control system of raising the barriers and extinguishing the road traffic light signals after a time delay, following a train detection malfunction. RETB The Radio Electronic Token Block system of signalling. S&C Abbreviated term for switches and crossings. Signaller A competent person responsible for the operation of the signalling system, to safely control the passage and regulation of trains, usually located in a signal box. Special speed restriction sign A sign incorporating a St Andrew s Cross, provided on the approach to certain locally monitored level crossings, indicating the crossing speed. Speed discrimination A feature of the level crossing control system that may be employed to minimise the road closure time by delaying the strike-in for slower trains. Stopping/non-stopping control A control permitting the selection of appropriate conditions for initiation of the crossing closure sequence according to whether an approaching train is to stop at a station on the approach to a crossing, or is to pass without stopping. Strike-in The initiation of the warning or closure sequence by a train at the approach to an automatic level crossing or other installation. 12 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 13 of 68 Strike-in point The position on the approach to an automatic level crossing or other installation at which a train initiates the warning or closure sequence. Supervising point The location from which one or more automatic crossings are supervised to ensure that they are working correctly. Telephone concentrator Equipment provided, usually at signal boxes, to combine several direct line circuits into a simple user interface. Train crew A competent person (driver, guard or other) who is authorised to operate level crossings. User A person who uses a level crossing. For the purposes of this document the term includes the authorised user and invitees of the authorised user. User-worked crossing A level crossing, where the user operates the crossing gates or barriers themselves. Warning sequence The order in which the visual and audible active warning devices operate as a train approaches a crossing. Warning time a) applied to a user-worked crossing, the shortest time for a train to travel from the point where it is first visible (or at a footpath crossing where whistle boards are provided, from the time when the audible warning given by the train is heard at the crossing) to its arrival at the crossing, on any of the lines over the crossing b) applied to an automatic crossing, the shortest time for a train to travel from the strike-in point to the crossing. (See the definition of Strike-in point above.) White light indicator An indicator provided to give protection for the user of a staff crossing. The white light is illuminated when it is safe to use the crossing and is extinguished automatically by approaching trains. Wicket gate A smaller separate gate provided adjacent to gates for vehicular use. Wrong direction control Controls and equipment provided to operate an automatic level crossing correctly when a train approaches the level crossing on a unidirectionally signalled double line in the unsignalled direction. B4 Principles This document supports HM Railway Inspectorate Safety Principle 23: Where a right of way crosses the railway at track level, appropriate arrangements should be provided to warn and protect level crossing users, and safeguard the railway. This document also supports HM Railway Inspectorate Safety Principle 4: Appropriate means to identify particular locations on the infrastructure should be provided for the safe operation and maintenance of the railway. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 13
Railway Group Standard Page 14 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 B5 Introduction: Alterations to level crossings This section is a descriptive introduction to. It does not contain mandatory requirements, but draws attention to an important point. It is the intention of this document that alterations to level crossings contribute to improving safety. This should however be achieved without imposing unreasonable costs on the industry. Alteration of a level crossing is therefore defined (in section B3) as 'the substantial renewal of all or part of an existing level crossing, which provides a reasonable opportunity to significantly improve the safety performance of the element subject to alteration'. It is important to understand that the requirements of this document do not apply simply because an alteration is made to part of a level crossing. The requirements are only mandatory where the alterations provide a reasonable opportunity for achieving compliance. The following examples illustrate how the requirements of this document apply: a) If the signs at a level crossing are replaced, they are to meet the requirements of section C4, but there is no requirement to carry out additional works at the level crossing. b) If the gate on one side of a level crossing is replaced because it is defective, the gate that is being replaced is to meet the requirements of section C3, but there is no mandatory requirement to replace the gate on the other side of the crossing, unless this would result in different gate widths. c) If signalling alterations are carried out which involve the repositioning of signals to bring them into compliance with clause E6.1, there is no requirement to carry out other works at the level crossing. 14 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 15 of 68 C1 Minimum combinations of level crossing control measures Part C Level crossing control measures C1.1 Requirements of GI/RT7011 Minimum combinations of level crossing control measures are set out in GI/RT7011 (in this context, a control measure is an item required for the safety of crossing users). The required control measures include: a) barriers (lifting barriers, gates and stiles) b) fixed signs c) telephones to the signaller or crossing keeper d) active visible warnings e) active audible warnings. Part C of this document sets out the requirements for the control measures listed above. C2 Lifting barriers C2.1 Barrier crossings worked by the user Where barrier crossings are worked by the user, a single lifting barrier shall be provided on each side of the railway, which when lowered shall fully close the crossing approaches from the railway. To prevent vehicles becoming trapped, the clearance between barrier posts shall be the same at both sides of the railway to ensure that ease of entry and exit is consistent. This shall usually provide a minimum clearance of 3.0 m and a maximum of 5.0 m. In exceptional circumstances, and with the prior approval of HM Railway Inspectorate, it is permissible to provide a larger clearance. Controls for the user shall be provided on each side of the railway. It shall be possible to raise and lower both barriers from any control point. Both barriers shall operate simultaneously. Operating instructions for the user shall be clearly displayed adjacent to each control point. The agreement of users of the crossing to lock the barriers shall be sought. If locking of the barriers is agreed, any failure to do so shall be followed up with the users. Where there are footpath or bridleway rights over a user-worked crossing, separate facilities applicable to the appropriate status shall be provided, for example, by providing wicket gates or stiles in addition to barriers. The default position for barriers at user-worked crossings shall be lowered. C2.2 Barrier crossings worked by an automatic control system Where barrier crossings are worked by an automatic control system, for example, automatic half-barrier crossings or automatic barrier crossings locally monitored, the barriers shall extend across only the left-hand side of the carriageway and footway when lowered. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 15
Railway Group Standard Page 16 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 Barriers shall be pivoted on the left-hand side of the road on each approach. The default position for barriers at automatic barrier crossings shall be raised. C2.3 Barrier crossings worked by train crew, signallers or crossing keepers The barriers when lowered shall fully close the carriageway and footway on both sides of the railway. Two arrangements are permissible: a) a single barrier on each side of the railway, each barrier extending across the full width of the carriageway and footways, and b) two barriers on each side of the railway, each barrier extending to the centreline of the carriageway. If automatic lowering is employed, two barriers on each side of the railway shall be provided. Where two barriers are provided on each approach, the barrier covering the lefthand side of the road shall be lowered first. All barriers shall rise together. Where single barriers are provided, they shall be pivoted on the left-hand side of the road unless site constraints prevent this. The default position for barriers at crossings worked by train crew, signallers or crossing keepers shall be raised. In exceptional circumstances for barriers at crossings worked by signallers or crossing keepers, it is permissible for the default position for the barriers to be lowered. Where a crossing is worked by a signaller or crossing keeper from a control point which is more than 50 m from the crossing, or where the view of the crossing is inadequate, supervision by CCTV shall be provided. The CCTV shall provide a good view of the whole crossing area, including the stop lines. Where supervision is not by means of CCTV, the person operating the barriers shall have a clear view of approaching road traffic and the whole crossing area. C2.4 Visibility of barriers to users Alternate red and white bands, nominally 600 mm long, shall be provided to the full depth on both sides of the barrier boom. A strip of retro-reflective material not less than 50 mm deep shall be provided along the full length of each band on both sides of the barrier. Each barrier boom shall be fitted with red lights visible in each direction along the carriageway where this is necessary to ensure visibility. One light shall be within 150 mm of the barrier tip. The lights shall be illuminated at all times when the barriers are not in the fully raised position. It is permissible to omit barrier lights at user-worked barrier crossings where no power supply is available. C2.5 Provision of skirts at crossings with full barriers At any level crossing equipped with full barriers, skirts shall be fitted where either there is a significant risk of pedestrians deliberately passing under the lowered barriers or where herded animals are regularly taken over the crossing on the hoof. Where provided, skirts shall be of light colour, light construction and shall fence in the space between the lowered barriers and the road surface. 16 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 17 of 68 C2.6 Barriers displaced by collision Lifting barriers shall be designed such that when displaced by a collision with a road vehicle, the boom separates from the barrier mechanism. C3 Gates and stiles C3.1 Gated crossings worked by the user A single gate shall be provided on both sides of the line. Exceptionally, and with the prior approval of HM Railway Inspectorate, it is permissible to provide double gates where site constraints make this necessary. The gates shall be arranged so that it is not possible to open the gates towards the railway or move them into a position where they obstruct the passage of trains. The gates shall be sited as close to the track as is practicable, but not less than 2.0 m from the nearest running rail. In determining the position of the gates, consideration shall be given to the effect on any provision made for safe access along the railway, for example, cess walkways or continuous positions of safety. To prevent vehicles becoming trapped, the clearance between gateposts shall be the same on both sides of the railway to ensure that ease of entry and exit is consistent. This shall provide a minimum width of 3.0 m and a maximum of 5.0 m. Means shall be available to secure both of the gates in both closed and open positions. The agreement of authorised users of the crossing to lock the gates shall be sought. If locking of the gates is agreed, any failure to do so shall be followed up with the users. Where there are footpath or bridleway rights over a user-worked crossing, separate facilities applicable to the appropriate status shall be provided, for example, by providing wicket gates or stiles in addition to gates. The default position for gates at user-worked crossings shall be closed. C3.2 Gated crossings worked by train crew, signallers or crossing keepers At gated crossings operated by railway staff, the gates shall usually be arranged such that when opened to the road they close across the railway. The gates shall complete the fencing of the railway when closed across either the road or the railway. Where site conditions dictate that the gates open away from the railway, a cattlecum-trespass guard shall be provided. There shall be a means of securely retaining the gates in both open and closed positions. They shall be lockable in either position. The default position for gated crossings worked by signallers or crossing keepers shall be closed across the road, except where formal authorisation has been obtained from HM Railway Inspectorate for the default position to be closed across the railway. The default position for gated crossings worked by train crew shall be closed across the railway. C3.3 Separate wicket gates for pedestrians at gated vehicular crossings It is permissible to provide separate wicket gates for pedestrians at gated vehicular crossings. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 17
Railway Group Standard Page 18 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 Where wicket gates are provided, they shall be on the same side of the carriageway and shall open away from the railway. They shall be easy to open from either side and shall be self-closing. Wicket gates for pedestrians shall be not less than 1.0 m wide. Where wicket gates are provided at gated crossings controlled by a signaller or crossing keeper, they shall be capable of being locked by the signaller or crossing keeper. C3.4 Gates at bridleway crossings Bridleway level crossings shall be protected by self-closing gates on each side of the railway. The gates shall be arranged to open away from the railway. Lifting barriers are not permitted. Gates at bridleway crossings shall be not less than 1.5 m wide. Unless horse riders are required to dismount, because of the presence of electrified overhead line equipment or a telephone, gates shall be designed to permit horse riders to remain mounted whilst opening them. Where riders are required to dismount, consideration shall be given to the provision of mounting blocks on the approaches to the crossing. C3.5 Gates and stiles at footpath crossings Footpath level crossings shall be protected by either gates or stiles on each side of the railway. A crossing shall have the same type of access on both sides of the railway, that is, it shall not have a gate on one side and a stile on the other. Where gates are provided, they shall be of the same type and width on both sides of the railway. The gates shall be arranged to open away from the railway. Gates shall be easily opened by one person. They shall be self-closing. Gates at footpath crossings shall be not less than 1.0 m wide. C3.6 Visibility of gated vehicular crossings on public roads At gated crossings on public roads, the gates shall be painted white and shall carry circular red retro-reflective targets which face outwards when the gates are across the road. The gates shall also carry red lights, illuminated during hours of darkness, facing towards approaching road traffic, except where road traffic light signals are provided. Where the gates, when opened to the road, close across the railway, they shall be conspicuous to the drivers of approaching trains. C3.7 Design of gates to deter incursions by people or animals Level crossing gates shall be sufficiently high and robust to prevent the incursion of animals onto the line. At crossings operated by railway staff, the gates shall be designed to deter persons from climbing over or through them when closed. 18 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 19 of 68 C4 Fixed signs and road markings C4.1 Provision of signs at crossings for railway passengers at a station (station foot crossing) Instruction signs explaining to the railway passenger how to proceed over the crossing shall be provided, sited to avoid any conflict with other signs for the public. C4.2 Provision of signs at crossings for railway staff at a station (barrow crossing) or on an authorised walking route Instruction signs explaining to railway staff how to proceed over the crossing shall be provided, sited to avoid any conflict with signs for the public. At crossings equipped with white light indicators, instruction signs bearing the words Caution cross only when light shows shall be provided, and sited to avoid any conflict with notices for the public, particularly any that prohibit passengers from crossing the line. C4.3 Provision of signs at public bridleway and footpath crossings So far as they are appropriate, the signs set out in the Private Crossings (Signs and Barriers) Regulations 1996 shall be provided. It is permissible to provide other signs where no appropriate sign is set out in the Private Crossings (Signs and Barriers) Regulations 1996. C4.4 Provision of signs at crossings worked by the user The signs to be provided at crossings on private roads and paths are set out in the Private Crossings (Signs and Barriers) Regulations 1996. Where such signs are provided, they have the meanings ascribed to them in the Private Crossings (Signs and Barriers) Regulations 1996. C4.5 Provision of signs at public road crossings The requirements for traffic signing and road marking on public roads are set out in the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002. The position of all road signs shall be agreed with the relevant highways authority. All signs shall be positioned so they can be seen by approaching road users. The position shall be established jointly by the infrastructure controller and the highways authority or their nominated representatives. C4.6 Signs indicating the name of crossings Signs shall be provided to indicate the name of level crossings, both to crossing users and to railway staff. Requirements for the naming of level crossings are set out in section K1. In addition to the crossing name, the signs shall show the national grid reference. Where telephones are not provided, a contact telephone number shall also be shown. C4.7 Warning signs for electrified lines Requirements for the provision of warning signs relating to the risk of electric shock in areas with electrified lines are set out in GM/RT1041. C4.8 Railway signs required for safety General requirements for railway signs required for safety are set out in GI/RT7033. C4.9 Permanent closure of level crossings Requirements for the permanent closure of level crossings, including the closure of a public road crossing to vehicular traffic, are set out in Part L. This includes requirements for removal of signs. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 19
Railway Group Standard Page 20 of 68 Document to be Withdrawn as of 03/04/2010 C5 Telephones to signaller or crossing keeper C5.1 Purpose of telephone systems Telephone systems, where required, serve two functions: a) to facilitate the safe operation of the crossing where the signaller authorises users to cross, and b) to provide a communications link in the event of an emergency. C5.2 Provision of telephones C5.2.1 Telephone communication to the signaller shall be provided at all barrier crossings worked by an automatic system. C5.2.2 Telephone communication to the signaller shall also be provided at crossings for use by railway staff, bridleway crossings and crossings worked by users (other than railway staff) where: a) the warning time is less than the time needed to cross safely, and b) no active visible warning is provided. C5.2.3 At crossings worked by users (other than railway staff) telephones shall also be provided where: a) there is known regular use by animals on the hoof, and b) there are more than two running lines. C5.2.4 At barrier crossings worked by the signaller or crossing keeper with automatic lowering facilities, telephones shall be provided where there is known regular use by animals on the hoof or slow-moving vehicles. C5.2.5 The provision of additional telephones at level crossings shall be considered where these may be required for use by railway staff either during normal operation or during failure of crossing equipment. C5.3 Requirements for telephone systems Particular requirements for telephone systems are set out in Part D. The requirements for the installation of all telephones and telephone systems provided for communications between level crossing users and signaller or crossing keeper are set out in Part D. C6 Active visible warnings C6.1 Active visible warnings for crossings for use by railway staff Where direct observation of approaching trains at a crossing for use by railway staff is inadequate for the safety of users, warning indicators, in the form of a white light, shall be provided. Indicators shall be located at each access to the crossing in such positions as to be visible from a position of safety. Where there is intermediate access to a crossing, the sections of the crossing shall be staggered and each section shall be treated as a separate crossing. 20 RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD
Railway Group Standard Page 21 of 68 Crossings equipped with white lights are not suitable for use by members of the public (see clause C6.2), unless accompanied by railway staff. It is permissible for the active visible warning to be provided by red/green lights at crossings for use by railway staff, provided these are not located at stations. C6.2 Active visible warnings at crossings worked by users (other than railway staff) Where active visible warnings are required at crossings worked by users, (including station foot crossings, footpath crossings, bridleway crossings and user-worked crossings) red/green lights, as specified in the Private Crossings (Signs and Barriers) Regulations 1996, shall be provided on each side of the railway, facing outwards from the railway towards approaching users. C6.3 Active visible warnings at crossings on public roads The requirements for road traffic light signals are set out in the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002. All road traffic light signal units at a level crossing shall be of a similar type and shall produce outputs of similar light intensity. Where it is identified that significant differences in the characteristics of road traffic light signals at nearby crossings could give rise to a risk of road users failing to heed them, light signals of a similar type shall be provided at all crossings within the area where it is considered that such a risk could arise. At automatic crossings, separate light signals for pedestrians (as set out in the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002) shall also be provided where a requirement for such signals is identified because of high pedestrian usage or regular use by vulnerable groups of pedestrians. C6.4 Requirements for the control of active visible warnings Particular requirements for the control of active visible warnings are set out in Part E. C7 Active audible warnings C7.1 General requirements for active audible warnings The requirements to provide active audible warnings are set out in GI/RT7011. At level crossings with full barriers controlled by railway staff, the audible warning shall commence when the road traffic light signals are illuminated at the commencement of the barrier lowering sequence, and shall cease when all barriers are fully lowered. At all other types of crossing provided with active audible warnings, the audible warning shall commence at the initiation of the warning sequence and shall continue until all approaching trains have passed clear of the crossing. At such crossings where a second train approaches the crossing during the warning period for the first train, the audible warning shall change distinctively as soon as the first train arrives at the crossing. C7.2 Characteristics of sound to be produced When the level crossing operating cycle is initiated, the audible warning device shall emit a continuous sound comprising repetition of two alternating tones. The two alternating tones shall have frequencies of 800 Hz ±1% and 1000 Hz ±1%, and shall be of equal duration. The tonal sequence shall repeat approximately every 0.5 second. When a distinctive tone is required to give warning of a second train approaching the crossing, the tonal sequence shall alternate at an increased rate, repeating approximately every 0.25 second. RAIL SAFETY AND STANDARDS BOARD 21