PTS – Personal Track Safety

The PTS card is the basic safety certification required to work on or near railway lines. It proves an individual is trained in safe access procedures and understands the key risks associated with rail environments.

Responsibilities:

• Accessing the track safely

• Identifying and responding to hazards (e.g., trains, electrification)

• Using correct PPE and following railway safety protocols

Required for: All operational, site-based railway roles.

TSC – Track Safety Coordinator

The TSC is responsible for planning and managing safe systems of work. This role involves creating Safe Work Packs (SWPs) and ensuring all site activities are carried out under compliant safety plans.

Responsibilities:

• Reviewing work instructions and safety documents

• Coordinating with planning and site teams

• Ensuring compliance with Network Rail and industry standards

Lookout

The Lookout acts as the eyes and ears for trackside teams, warning them of approaching trains using a series of predefined signals.

Responsibilities:

• Monitoring train movements

• Issuing visual or audible warnings to staff

• Maintaining awareness and attention throughout shift

Used in: Red Zone working and line-open environments.

Points Operator

A Points Operator manually or remotely controls railway points (track switches) during possessions or maintenance work, allowing safe train or machinery movement across routes.

Responsibilities:

• Operating or confirming the setting of track points

• Liaising with the Engineering Supervisor or Machine Controllers

• Verifying safe track alignment before movements

Critical for: Worksites with machine movements or route changes.

EO – Engineering Supervisor

The Engineering Supervisor is the key authority for works being carried out within a possession. They ensure tasks are safely delivered and manage communication with the PICOP.

Responsibilities:

• Managing authorised works in a defined section

• Overseeing safety measures and staff within their area

• Handing back the section once work is complete

RRVC – Rail-Road Vehicle Controller

This role ensures the safe movement and coordination of rail-road vehicles (RRVs) within the work zone, including liaising with operators and site teams.

Responsibilities:

• Confirming safe RRV paths and actions

• Monitoring and controlling on-track machinery

• Supporting compliance with possession rule.

RRVO – Rail-Road Vehicle Operator

An RRVO is trained to operate road-rail vehicles used for lifting, digging, moving ballast, and more.

Responsibilities:

• Conducting pre-use checks

• Safely operating machines under site rules

• Working under the guidance of controllers and supervisors

PICOP – Person In Charge of Possession

The PICOP manages the overall safety and access control for a track section taken out of service (possession). They are the point of contact between the signaller, Engineering Supervisors, and site teams.

Responsibilities:

• Recording all movements in and out of the possession

• Ensuring works commence and conclude safely

• Coordinating handback procedures to the network

Off Track Teams

These teams focus on infrastructure beyond the running rails, including fencing, vegetation management, and drainage.

Responsibilities:

• Installing boundary fencing and gates

• Vegetation control (e.g., strimming and spraying)

• Ecology surveys and drainage works

Skills needed: Civils experience, awareness of environmental best practice, and ability to work independently.

Summary

From lookout duties to engineering supervision, every role is part of a coordinated effort to maintain a safe and efficient rail network. At On Track Technicians, we’re proud to deliver these services with professionalism, safety, and teamwork at the heart of everything we do.