ORR publishes guidance on developing and maintaining staff competence for use in the railway industry

22 March 2007
ORR/09/07

The Office of Rail Regulation (ORR) has published guidance on developing and maintaining staff competence for use in the railway industry.

In this second edition, which follows the Health and Safety Executive’s 2002 first edition, ORR has updated its guidance to take account of the latest legislation. The Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Safety) Regulations 2006 (ROGS Regulations) require those people carrying out safety critical work to be competent and fit. 

The guidance is primarily aimed at those responsible for managing, controlling and assessing the competence of individuals and teams in the railway and tramway industries. The guidance describes the principles and factors that should be considered to improve existing competence management systems, and set up and implement new systems.

Linda Williams, HM Chief Inspector of Railways, said: “I commend this guidance to all those involved in the industry.  Developing and maintaining competence is essential for safety. Competent people are fundamental in controlling risks in the complex railway environment. I hope HMRI Inspectors will use this document as a benchmark to assess the adequacy of arrangements for compliance with relevant legislation.”

Press enquiries

ORR Press Office – 020 7282 2188/2094