Crossing the Line Procedure

You can use the crossing the line procedure if an IWA or COSS is walking alone or is with a group that is walking and needs:

To cross no more than four running lines.

To walk past a structure that restricts clearance from a running line.

In order to use the procedure all of the following must apply: 3 things

Location, personnel named, mobile

The location has been approved for the use of the procedure and you have been given details about the location and the conditions for using it.

The IWA or COSS is competent to use the procedure and you have their name.

The person making the request must contact you using a mobile phone.

Agreeing the arrangement- the person making the request must tell you:

The location where the line will be crossed or a structure will be passed by.

Their name and employer.

How long it will take to cross the line or pass by the structure.

The signaller must make sure that:

The location is one that is approved and you have the details of.

The person concerned is authorised to carry out the procedure and is named on a list you have.

Granting authority and completing the activity. What must you do:

Ensure there is enough time to cross/ complete the activity before the next train. (If not tell COSS or IWA to call back)

If enough time, tell them to cross or pass the structure whilst staying on the phone to the person making the request.

The requester will tell you everyone is clear of the line.

End the call.

Losing telephone contact- if contact lost after agreeing the request or before being told that everyone is clear you must do what?

Stop the next train proceeding towards the location.

Tell the driver to approach at caution.

Not pass the location unless it is safe to do so.

Tell you whether the line is safe for trains to pass normally.

Resume normal working if line is clear.

Is signal protection needed for crossing the line procedure?

No