Rail Industry Training

This is the fundamental entry-level competency required to work on the railway. It qualifies you for various roles that do not involve direct interference with rail infrastructure. Most employers expect candidates to hold this qualification before offering a position. The PTS course consists of two parts: an initial E-learning module followed by two days of classroom and practical training covering AC and DCCR systems. Successful completion of the E-learning assessment is necessary before attending the practical training sessions. The course aims to equip participants with the knowledge to understand their responsibilities when working on or near the railway line and demonstrate their ability to adhere to a Safe System of Work.

How long does this competency last?

The PTS competence is valid for 2 years, thereafter a one-day PTS re-certification must be completed. Please note that the re-certification needs to be completed within 56 days of the PTS expiry date, if not, the PTS Initial will need to be completed again.

Pre-requisites

• Must be a minimum age of 16. 
• Meet the medical requirements of Network Rail Standard NR/L2/OHS/00124 Competence Specific Fitness Medical Requirements 
• Meet the requirements of Network Rail Standard NR/L1/OHS/051 (Drugs & Alcohol). A drugs and alcohol test must have been carried out no more than 3 months prior to attending a PTS initial training event. 
• Must have successfully completed the E-learning training and assessment prior to attendance 
• Must have sufficient command of English language, and of the English language as detailed in Network Rail Company Specification NR/S/CTM/021 (Competence & Training in Track Safety) 
• Sponsored by a RISQS approved railway company 
• Must have a mandatory 12 twelve (12) hour rest period before the course as per the rules on Working Time Regulations (1998) and Network Rail Standards NR/L2/OHS/003.

This refresher course is intended for existing PTS competency holders who wish to continue working on or near the line on Network Rail’s infrastructure, including working near or adjacent to a DC Conductor Rail, and wish to be re-certificated.

Pre-requisites

• Must be a minimum age of 16. 
• Meet the medical requirements of Network Rail Standard NR/L2/OHS/00124 Competence Specific Fitness Medical Requirements to medical and Network Rail Standard NR/L2/OHS/00120 (Drugs & Alcohol).
• Must have sufficient command of English language, and of the English language as detailed in Network Rail Company Specification NR/S/CTM/021 (Competence & Training in Track Safety) 
• Sponsored by a RISQS approved railway company 
• Must provide their PTS Work Experience Book (Logbook) with a minimum of 4 completed and endorsed entries showing the mandated minimum number of countersigned entries, 4 in the last 2 years (RTAS Rules V2.0.). 
• Must have a valid PTS, or a PTS which expired within 56 days of the course date.
• Must have a mandatory 12 twelve (12) hour rest period before the course as per the rules on Working Time Regulations (1998) and Network Rail Standards NR/L2/OHS/003.
• Must not be on learning support (indicated by a green square on the individuals Sentinel Profile) 

This course is designed to train individuals who have been nominated by their line manager/sponsor to enable them to attain the Controller of Site Safety (COSS) competence.

The COSS competence will be held by anyone who is required to set up a safe system of work on or near the line for a group (two or more people). A COSS can also carry out the duties of an IWA, provided there are no medical restrictions that would prevent this.

The COSS course will take delegates through the procedures set out in the Rule Book; Handbook 6 (General Duties of an IWA), Handbook 7 (General duties of a controller of site safety (COSS), Handbook 8 (IWA, COSS or PC blocking a line), Handbook 9 (IWA or COSS setting up safe systems of work within possessions), Handbook 10 (Duties of the COSS and person in charge of a hand trolley) and Handbook 13 (Duties of the person in charge of the siding).

The course includes the importance of using the correct communication protocols and adopting the appropriate behaviours to be able to carry out this role safely and effectively.

The COSS competency lasts for two years; though within 4 months of completing your course with us, you must complete a minimum of 4 shifts during the mentoring period. 

Pre-requisite

• Minimum age of 18
• Meets the entry requirements of PTS competence.
• Good level of literacy required.
• Must hold a valid Sentinel Card and meet the requirements of NR/L2/CTM/021 -Competence and Training in Track Safety.
• Meet the medical requirements of Network Rail Standard NR/L2/OHS/00124 Competence Specific Fitness Medical Requirements to medical and Network Rail Standard NR/L2/OHS/00120 (Drugs & Alcohol).
• Must provide their PTS Work Experience Book (Logbook) with a minimum of 4 completed and endorsed entries showing the mandated minimum number of countersigned entries, 4 in the last 2 years (RTAS Rules V2.0.). 
• Must have a valid PTS, or a PTS which expired within 56 days of the course date.
• Must have a mandatory 12 twelve (12) hour rest period before the course as per the rules on Working Time Regulations (1998) and Network Rail Standards NR/L2/OHS/003.
• To ensure individuals receive the CRP competence, they must also have a valid endorsed PTS DCCR. 

•  During the 1-day Emergency First Aid at Work Course, participants receive instruction encompassing both theoretical and practical aspects. The curriculum covers casualty examination, defibrillator usage, basic life support procedures, and techniques for managing bleeding and trauma.