The Train Driving Licences and Certificates Regulations 2010

Regulations 4, 8 and 13

SCHEDULE 1 U.K. MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

(This Schedule substantially reproduces the provisions of Annex II to the Directive) U.K.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS U.K.

1.—(1) Drivers must not be suffering from any medical conditions or be taking any medication, drugs or substances which are likely to cause—

(a) a sudden loss of consciousness,

(b) a reduction in attention or concentration,

(c) sudden incapacity,

(d) a loss of balance or coordination,

(e) significant limitation of mobility.

Vision

(2) The following requirements as regards vision must be complied with—

(a) aided or unaided distance visual acuity: 1,0; minimum of 0,5 for the worse eye,

(b) maximum corrective lenses: hypermetropia + 5/myopia -8, (derogations may be authorised in exceptional cases and after having obtained the opinion of an eye specialist, the recognised doctor then takes the decision),

(c) near and intermediate vision: sufficient, whether aided or unaided,

(d) contact lenses and glasses are authorised when periodically checked by a specialist,

(e) normal colour vision: use of a recognised test, such as Ishihara, as well as another recognised test if required,

(f) field of vision: full,

(g) vision for both eyes: effectiveF1 ...,

(h) binocular vision: effective,

(i) recognition of colour signals: the test must be based on recognition of single colours and not on relative differences,

(j) sensitivity to contrasts: good,

(k) no progressive eye disease,

(l) lens implants, keratotomies and keratectomies are allowed only on condition that they are checked on a yearly basis or at intervals set by a recognised doctor,

(m) ability to withstand dazzle,

(n) coloured contact lenses and photochromatic lenses are not allowed, but UV filter lenses are allowed.

Hearing and speaking requirements

(3) Sufficient hearing confirmed by an audiogram, i.e.— – hearing good enough to hold a phone conversation and to be able to hear warning sounds and radio messages. The following values should be taken as guidelines—

(a) the hearing deficiency must not be higher than 40 dB at 500 and 1000 Hz,

(b) the hearing deficiency must not be higher than 45 dB at 2000 Hz for the ear with the worst air conduction of sound,

(c) no anomaly of the vestibular system,

(d) no chronic speech disorder (given the necessity to exchange messages loudly and clearly),

(e) the use of hearing aids is allowed in special cases.

Pregnancy

(4) In the event of poor tolerance or a pathological condition, pregnancy must be considered to be a reason for the temporary exclusion of drivers. Legal provisions protecting pregnant drivers must be applied.

Textual Amendments

F1 Words in Sch. 1 para. 1(2)(g) omitted (1.1.2016) by virtue of The Train Driving Licences and Certificates (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1798), regs. 1(3), 2(3) (with reg. 3)

MINIMUM CONTENT OF THE EXAMINATION BEFORE APPOINTMENT U.K.

2.—(1) Medical examinations—

(a) a general medical examination,

(b) examinations of sensory functions (vision, hearing, colour perception),

(c) blood or urine tests, testing among others for diabetes mellitus, insofar as they are necessary to judge the candidate's physical aptitude,

(d) an Electro-Cardiogram (ECG) at rest,

(e) tests for psychotropic substances such as illicit drugs or psychotropic medication and the abuse of alcohol calling into question the fitness for the job,

(f) cognitive: attention and concentration; memory; perception; reasoning,

(g) communication,

(h) psychomotor: reaction time, hand coordination.

(2) Occupational psychological examinations— The purpose of the occupational psychological examination is to assist in the appointment and management of staff. In determining the content of the psychological evaluation, the examination must assess that the applicant driver has no established occupational psychological deficiencies, particularly in operational aptitudes or any relevant personality factor, which are likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the duties.

PERIODIC EXAMINATIONS AFTER APPOINTMENT U.K.

3.—(1) Frequency

(a) Medical examinations (physical fitness) must be taken at least every three years up to the age of 55, thereafter every year.

(b) In addition to this frequency, a recognised doctor must increase the frequency of examinations if the health of the member of staff so requires.

(c) Without prejudice to regulation 13 an appropriate medical examination must be carried out when there is reason to doubt that a holder of a train driving licence or train driving certificate fulfils the medical requirements set out in paragraph 1 (General Requirements) of this Schedule.

(d) Physical fitness must be checked regularly and after any occupational accident or any period of absence following an accident involving persons. The recognised doctor can decide to carry out an additional appropriate medical examination, particularly after a period of at least 30 days' sick leave. The employer must ask a recognised doctor to check the physical fitness of the train driver if the employer has to withdraw the driver from service for safety reasons.

(2) Minimum content of the periodic medical examination If the train driver complies with the criteria required for the examination which is carried out before appointment, the periodic examinations must include as a minimum—

(a) a general medical examination,

(b) an examination of sensory functions (vision, hearing, colour perception),

(c) blood or urine tests to detect diabetes mellitus and other conditions as indicated by the clinical examination,

(d) tests for drugs where clinically indicated.

In addition, an ECG at rest is also required for train drivers over 40 years of age.

Regulations 5, 24 and 25

SCHEDULE 2 U.K. COMMUNITY MODEL TRAIN DRIVING LICENCE AND HARMONISED COMPLEMENTARY TRAIN DRIVING CERTIFICATE

(This Schedule substantially reproduces the provisions of Annex I to the Directive) U.K.

1. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LICENCE U.K.

The following apply.—

(a) The physical characteristics of the train driving licence must be in conformity with ISO standards 7810:2003 and 7816-1:1998 M1 .

(b) The card must be made of polycarbonate.

(c) The methods for verifying the characteristics of train driving licences to ensure that they are consistent with international standards must comply with ISO standard 10373-1:2006 M2 .

Marginal Citations

M1 ISO standards are published in Geneva by the International Organisation for Standardisation, and are available on their website (www.iso.org.). ISO standard 7810:2003 (identification cards, physical characteristics, edition 3) was published on 31-10-03. ISO standard 7816-1:1998 (identification cards, integrated circuit(s) cards with contacts, Part 1, physical characteristics, edition 1) was published on 8-10-98.

M2 ISO standard 10373-1:2006 (identification cards, test methods, Part 1, General Characteristics, edition 2) was published on 26-4-06.

2. CONTENTS OF THE LICENCE U.K.

The front of the licence must contain—

(a) the words “Train Driving Licence” printed in large type in English,

(b) the words “United Kingdom”,

(c) the distinguishing sign of the United Kingdom in accordance with the United Kingdom's code in ISO standards 3166-1:2006 M3 , printed in negative in a blue rectangle and encircled by 12 yellow stars,

(d) information specific to the licence issued, numbered as follows—

(i) the surname of the holder,

(ii) other name(s) of the holder,

(iii) the date and place of birth of the holder,

(iv) the following— - the date of issue of the licence, - the date of expiry of the licence, - the words “[F2 Office of Rail and Road]”, - the reference number assigned to the holder by the holder's employer (optional),

(v) the number of the licence giving access to data in the register referred to in regulation 24,

(vi) a photograph of the holder,

(vii) the signature of the holder,

(viii) the permanent place of residence or postal address of the holder (optional),

(e) the words “European Union model” in English and the words “train driving licence” in the other languages of the EU, printed in yellow to form the background of the licence,

(f) the reference colours—

(i) blue – Pantone Reflex blue,

(ii) yellow – Pantone yellow,

(g) additional information, or medical restrictions for use imposed by the ORR in accordance with Schedule 1, in code form.

F3 ...

Textual Amendments

F2 Words in Sch. 2 para. 2(d)(iv) substituted (16.10.2015) by The Office of Rail Regulation (Change of Name) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1682), reg. 1(2), Sch. para. 10(z)(iv)

F3 Words in Sch. 2 para. 2 omitted (21.05.2013) by The Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2013 (S.I. 2013/950), regs. 1, 4(5)

Marginal Citations

M3 ISO standard 3166-1:2006 (codes for the representation of names of countries and their subdivisions, Part 1, country codes, edition 2) was published on 20-11-06.

3. CERTIFICATE U.K.

The certificate must contain—

(a) the surname of the holder,

(b) other name(s) of the holder,

(c) the date and place of birth of the holder,

(d) the following—

(i) the date of issue of the certificate,

(ii) the date of expiry of the certificate,

(iii) the name of the issuing railway undertaking or infrastructure manager,

(iv) the reference number assigned to the holder by the issuing railway undertaking or infrastructure manager (optional),

(e) the number of the certificate giving access to data in the register referred to in regulation 25,

(f) a photograph of the holder,

(g) the signature of the holder,

(h) the permanent place of residence or postal address of the holder (optional),

(i) the name and address of the railway undertaking or infrastructure manager for which the train driver is authorised to drive trains,

(j) the category in which the holder is entitled to drive,

(k) the type of rolling stock which the holder is entitled to drive,

(l) the infrastructures on which the holder is authorised to drive,

(m) any additional information or restrictions,

(n) language skills.

4. MINIMUM DATA CONTAINED IN REGISTERS OF TRAIN DRIVING LICENCES AND TRAIN DRIVING CERTIFICATES U.K.

The minimum data is as follows—

(a) Data relating to the licence—

All data appearing on the licence plus data relating to the checking requirements set out in regulations 8 and 13.

(b) Data relating to the certificate—

All data appearing on the certificate plus data relating to the checking requirements set out in regulations 9 and 15.

Regulations 8 and 29

[F4 SCHEDULE 3 U.K. GENERAL PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND REQUIREMENTS REGARDING THE LICENCE

Textual Amendments

F4 Sch. 3 substituted (1.1.2016) by The Train Driving Licences and Certificates (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1798), regs. 1(3), 2(4) (with reg. 3)

(This Schedule substantially reproduces the provisions of Annex IV to the Directive) U.K.

1.   The objective of the general training is to provide general competence on all aspects that are relevant to the train driver’s profession. The general training must focus on basic knowledge and principles that are applicable independently of the type and nature of rolling stock or infrastructure. Requirements for training for specific rolling stock or infrastructure are specified in Schedules 4 and 5 of these Regulations. U.K.

2.   In relation to a driver’s work, the work environment, the driver’s role and responsibility in the process of rail operation, the professional and personal demands of the driver’s duties the driver must— U.K.

(a) have acquired knowledge of the general thrust of legislation and rules applicable to rail operation and safety (requirements and procedures regarding the certification of train drivers, dangerous goods, environmental protection, fire protection, etc.);

(b) understand the specific requirements and professional and personal demands (working mainly on one’s own, shift work over 24 hour cycle, individual protection and security, reading and updating documents, etc.);

(c) understand behaviours which are compatible with safety-critical responsibilities (medication, alcohol, drugs and other psychoactive substances, illness, stress, fatigue, etc.);

(d) be able to identify the reference and operating documents (e.g. rule book, route book, driver’s manual, etc.);

(e) be able to identify the responsibilities and functions of persons involved;

(f) understand the importance of being precise in carrying out duties and in working methods;

(g) understand occupational health and safety (e.g. code of behaviour on and near tracks, code of behaviour for getting on and off the traction unit safely, ergonomics, staff safety rules, personal protective equipment, etc.);

(h) have acquired knowledge of behavioural skills and principles (stress management, extreme situations, etc.); and

(i) have acquired knowledge of the principles of environmental protection (sustainable driving, etc.).

3.   In relation to railway technologies, including safety principles behind operational regulations the driver must— U.K.

(a) have acquired knowledge of the principles, regulations and provisions regarding safety in rail operation; and

(b) be able to identify the responsibilities and functions of persons involved.

4.   In relation to the basic principles of railway infrastructure the driver must have acquired knowledge of — U.K.

(a) systematic and structural principles and parameters;

(b) the general characteristics of tracks, stations, marshalling yards;

(c) railway structures (bridges, tunnels, points, etc.);

(d) operating modes (single track, double track operation, etc.);

(e) signalling and train control systems;

(f) safety installations (hot-axle box detectors, smoke detectors in tunnels, etc.) and

(g) traction power supply (catenary, third rail, etc.).

5.   In relation to the basic principles of operational communication the train driver must— U.K.

(a) have acquired knowledge of the significance of communication and the means and procedures for communicating;

(b) be able to identify persons the driver needs to contact and their role and responsibility (staff of the infrastructure manager, working duties of other train staff, etc.);

(c) be able to identify situations/causes that require communication to be initiated; and

(d) understand communication methods.

6.   In relation to trains, their composition and the technical requirements for traction units, wagons, coaches and other rolling stock the driver must— U.K.

(a) have acquired knowledge of the generic types of traction (electric, diesel, steam, etc.);

(b) be able to describe the layout of a vehicle (bogies, bodies, driving cab, protection systems, etc.);

(c) have acquired knowledge of the content and systems of labelling;

(d) have acquired knowledge of the documentation on train composition;

(e) understand braking systems and performance calculation;

(f) be able to identify train speed;

(g) be able to identify maximum load and forces at the coupler; and

(h) have acquired knowledge of the operation and purpose of the train management system.

7.   In relation to hazards involved in railway operations in general the driver must— U.K.

(a) understand the principles governing traffic safety;

(b) have acquired knowledge of the risks related to railway operation and the various means to be used to mitigate them;

(c) have acquired knowledge of safety-relevant incidents and understand the required behaviour/reaction; and

(d) have acquired knowledge of the procedures applicable to accidents involving persons (e.g. evacuation).

8.   In relation to the basic principles of physics the driver must— U.K.

(a) understand forces at the wheel;

(b) be able to identify factors influencing accelerating and braking performance (weather conditions, braking equipment, reduced adhesion, sanding, etc.); and

(c) understand principles of electricity (circuits, measuring voltage, etc.).]

Regulations 9 and 29

SCHEDULE 4 U.K. PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND REQUIREMENTS REGARDING THE TRAIN DRIVING CERTIFICATE

(This Schedule substantially reproduces the provisions of Annex VI to the Directive) U.K.

1. TESTING THE BRAKES U.K.

Drivers must be able to check and calculate, before departure, that the train's braking power corresponds to the braking power required for the line, as specified in the vehicle documents.

2. TYPE OF OPERATION AND MAXIMUM TRAIN SPEED ACCORDING TO THE LINE CHARACTERISTICS U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) take note of information given to them, such as the speed limits or any signalling changes,

(b) determine the type of running and the limit speed of the train on the basis of the characteristics of the line.

3. KNOWLEDGE OF THE LINE U.K.

Drivers must be able to anticipate problems and react appropriately in terms of safety and other performances, such as punctuality and economic aspects. They must therefore have a thorough knowledge of the railway lines and installations on their route and of any alternative routes agreed on.

The following aspects are important—

(a) operational conditions (changes of track, one-way running, etc.),

(b) perform a route check and consult the relevant documents,

(c) identification of tracks that can be used for a given type of running,

(d) the applicable traffic rules and the meaning of the signalling system,

(e) the operations regime,

(f) the block system and associated regulations,

(g) station names and the position, and distance-sighting, of stations and signal boxes and to adapt driving accordingly,

(h) transition signalling between different operating or power supply systems,

(i) speed limits for the different train categories driven,

(j) topographical profiles,

(k) particular braking conditions, for example on lines with a steep downward gradient,

(l) particular operating features: special signals, signs, departure conditions, etc.

4. SAFETY REGULATIONS U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) start the trains only when all prescribed conditions are fulfilled (timetable, start order or signal, operation of signals if required, etc.),

(b) observe track-side and in-cab signals, interpret them immediately and without error, and act as specified,

(c) run the train safely according to the specific modes of operation: apply special modes if instructed, temporary speed restrictions, running in opposite direction, permission to pass signals at danger, switching operations, turns, running through construction sites, etc,

(d) respect scheduled or supplementary stops, and if necessary perform supplementary operations for passengers during these stops, notably opening and closing the doors.

5. DRIVING THE TRAIN U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) know the train's position on the line at all times,

(b) apply the brakes for decelerations and stops, taking account of the rolling stock and installations,

(c) adjust the running of the train in accordance with the timetable and any orders given on saving energy, taking account of the characteristics of the traction unit, the train, the line and the environment.

6. ANOMALIES U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) be attentive, insofar as train operation permits, to unusual occurrences concerning the infrastructure and the environment: signals, tracks, energy supply, level crossings, track surrounding, other traffic,

(b) know particular distances to clear obstacles,

(c) inform the infrastructure manager as soon as possible of the place and nature of anomalies observed, making sure that the information has been understood,

(d) taking into account the infrastructure, ensure or take measures to ensure the safety of traffic and persons, whenever necessary.

7. OPERATING INCIDENTS AND ACCIDENTS, FIRES AND ACCIDENTS INVOLVING PERSONS U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) take steps to protect the train and summon assistance in the event of an accident involving persons,

(b) determine where to stop the train in the event of a fire and facilitate the evacuation of passengers, if necessary,

(c) provide useful information on the fire as soon as possible if the fire can not be brought under control by the driver acting alone,

(d) inform the infrastructure manager of these conditions as soon as possible,

(e) assess whether the infrastructure allows the vehicle to continue to run and under which conditions.

[F5 8. LANGUAGE TESTS U.K.

The language requirements are as follows—

(1) Drivers who have to communicate with the infrastructure manager on critical safety issues must have language skills in the language indicated by the infrastructure manager concerned. Their language skills must be such that they can communicate actively and effectively in routine, adverse and emergency situations.

(2) They must be able to use the messages and communication method specified in the Annex to Commission Decision 2012/757/EU concerning the technical specification for interoperability relating to the “operation and traffic management” subsystem of the rail system in the European Union and amending Decision 2007/756/EC.

(3) Drivers must be able to understand (both listening and reading) and to communicate (both speaking and writing) according to level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) established by the Council of Europe.]

Textual Amendments

F5 Sch. 4 para. 8 substituted (1.1.2016) by The Train Driving Licences and Certificates (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/1798), regs. 1(3), 2(5) (with reg. 3)

Regulations 9 and 29

SCHEDULE 5 U.K. PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE OF ROLLING STOCK AND REQUIREMENTS REGARDING THE TRAIN DRIVING CERTIFICATE

(This Schedule substantially reproduces the provisions of Annex V to the Directive) U.K.

After completing specific training in relation to rolling stock, drivers must be able to carry out the following tasks—

1. TESTS AND CHECKS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) collect the documentation and the necessary equipment,

(b) check the capacities of the traction unit,

(c) check the information entered in the documents on board the traction unit,

(d) ensure, by performing the checks and tests specified, that the traction unit is capable of providing the required traction power, and that the safety equipment is operating,

(e) check the availability and functionality of the prescribed protection and safety equipment at the handover of a locomotive or at the start of a trip,

(f) perform any routine preventative maintenance operations.

2. KNOWLEDGE OF ROLLING STOCK U.K.

Knowledge required—

(1) To operate a locomotive drivers must be familiar with all the controls and indicators placed at their disposal, in particular those concerning—

(a) traction,

(b) braking,

(c) traffic safety related elements.

(2) In order to detect and locate anomalies in the rolling stock, report them and determine what is required to repair them, and in certain cases to take action, drivers must be familiar with—

(a) mechanical structures,

(b) suspension and attachment equipment,

(c) running gear,

(d) safety equipment,

(e) fuel tanks, fuel supply systems, exhaust equipment,

(f) the meaning of markings on the inside and outside of the rolling stock, in particular the symbols used for the transportation of dangerous goods,

(g) trip registration systems,

(h) electrical and pneumatic systems,

(i) collection of current and high-voltage systems,

(j) communication equipment (ground-to-train radio, etc),

(k) arrangement of trips,

(l) the constituent parts of the rolling stock, their purpose, and the devices specific to the hauled stocks, in particular the system of stopping the train by venting the brake pipe,

(m) braking system,

(n) the parts specific to traction units,

(o) traction chain, motors and transmission.

3. TESTING THE BRAKES U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) check and calculate, before departure, that the train's braking power corresponds to the braking power required for the line, as specified in the vehicle documents,

(b) check the functioning of the various components of the braking system of the traction unit and of the train, as appropriate, before departure, at start-up and during running.

4. OPERATING MODE AND MAXIMUM SPEED OF THE TRAIN IN RELATION TO THE LINE CHARACTERISTICS U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) take note of information given to them before departure,

(b) determine the type of running and the limit speed of the train on the basis of variables such as speed limits, weather conditions or any signalling changes.

5. DRIVING THE TRAIN IN A WAY WHICH DOES NOT DAMAGE INSTALLATIONS OR VEHICLES U.K.

Drivers must be able to—

(a) use all available control systems in accordance with the applicable rules,

(b) start the train taking account of adhesion and power constraints,

(c) apply the brakes for decelerations and stops, taking account of the rolling stock and installations.

6. ANOMALIES U.K.

Drivers must—

(a) be able to be attentive to unusual occurrences concerning the behaviour of the train,

(b) be able to inspect the train and identify signs of anomalies, distinguish between them, react according to their relative importance and try to remedy them, always giving priority to the safety of rail traffic and persons,

(c) know the available means of protection and communication.

7. OPERATING INCIDENTS AND ACCIDENTS, FIRES AND ACCIDENTS INVOLVING PERSONS U.K.

Drivers must—

(a) be able to take steps to protect the train and summon assistance in the event of an accident involving persons on board the train,

(b) be able to determine whether the train is transporting dangerous goods and identify them on the basis of train documents and wagon lists,

(c) know the procedures relating to the evacuation of a train in case of emergency.

8. CONDITIONS FOR CONTINUING RUNNING AFTER AN INCIDENT INVOLVING ROLLING STOCK U.K.

After an incident, drivers must be able to assess whether the vehicle can continue to run and under what conditions, so as to inform the infrastructure manager of those conditions as soon as possible.

Drivers must be able to determine if an expert evaluation is necessary before the train can continue.

9. IMMOBILISATION OF THE TRAIN U.K.

Drivers must be able to take measures to ensure that the train, or parts thereof, does not start up or move unexpectedly, even in the most difficult conditions.

Furthermore, drivers must have knowledge about measures which can stop a train or parts thereof in case it has started to move unexpectedly.

Regulation 15

SCHEDULE 6 U.K. FREQUENCY OF EXAMINATIONS

(This Schedule substantially reproduces the provisions of Annex VII to the Directive) U.K.

The minimum frequency of the periodic checks shall be as follows—

(a) linguistic knowledge (only for non-native speakers): every three years or after any absence of more than one year,

(b) infrastructure knowledge (including route and operation rules knowledge): every three years or after any absence of more than one year on the relevant route,

(c) knowledge of rolling stock: every three years.

Regulation 29

SCHEDULE 7 U.K. TRAINING METHOD

(This Schedule substantially reproduces the provisions of Annex III to the Directive) U.K.

Training method requirements and guidance are as follows—

(1) There must be a good balance between theoretical training (classroom and demonstrations) and practical training (on-the-job experience, driving with supervision and driving without supervision on tracks which are closed off for training purposes).

(2) Computer-aided training must be accepted for individual learning of the operational rules, signalling situations, etc.

(3) The use of simulators, although not obligatory, may be useful for the effective training of drivers; they are particularly useful for training in abnormal working conditions or for rules infrequently applied. They have a particular advantage in their ability to provide learning-by-doing capability for events that cannot be trained in the real world. In principle, simulators of the latest generation must be used.

(4) Concerning the acquisition of route knowledge, the approach to be favoured must be where the train driver accompanies another driver for an appropriate number of journeys along the route, in daylight as well as at night. Videos of the routes as seen from the driver's cab may be used, among other methods, as an alternative training method.