MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
                                                                                                                                                                                             
                                                                                     
 
©TBS 20 23  First Edition   
DRAFT TANZANIA STANDARD  
 
 
 
MEDC  9 (2040) CD2 / SADC SARA HT: 95 : 2017 – Railway Safety Management – 
Technical Requirements for Engineering and Operational Standards  – Operational 
Principles for Safe Movement On Rail.  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
TANZANIA BUREAU OF STAN DARDS  
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
 This Tanzania Standard was published under the authority of the Board of Directors of Tanzania Bureau 
of Standards  2023 -mm-dd. 
 
Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) is the statutory national standards body for Tanzania, established 
under the Standar ds Act No. 3 of 1975, amended by Act No. 2 of 2009.  
 
The Mechanical Engineering Divisional Standards Committee (MEDC) under whose supervision this 
Tanzania Standard was prepared consists of representatives from the following organizations:  
 
University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM)  
National Development Corporation (NDC)  
Weights and Measures Agency (WMA)  
Tanzania Industrial Research Development Organization (TIRDO)  
Aluminium Africa  
*National Institute of Transport (NIT)  
Ministry of Works, Transport and Communi cations.  
 
The organization marked with an asterisk (*) in the above list together with the following were directly 
represented on the Technical Committee entrusted with the preparation of this Tanzania Standard:  
 
Traffic Police HQ  
Land Transport Regulatory  Authority (LATRA)  
University of Dodoma (UDOM)  
Superdoll Ltd  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tanzania Bureau of Standards  
P O Box 9524  
Dar es Salaam  
Tel:  022 2450206/2450298/2450949  
Fax: 022 2450959  
E-mail: info@tbs.go.tz  
 
 
 
                                             
MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
©TBS 20 23  First Edition   
 
NATIONAL FOREWORD  
This Tanzania Standard has been prepared under Automotive Components Technical Committee (MEDC 
09), under supervision of Mechanical Engineering Standards Divisional Committee.  
It is identi cal to SADC SARA HT: 95: 2017, technical requirements for engineering and operational 
standards - operational principles for safe movement on rail, published by SADC Cooperation in 
Standardization (SADCSTAN) . MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
©TBS 20 23  First Edition   
   SADC HT: 95: 2017  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SADC HARMONISED TEXT  
 
Railway Safety Management – Technical 
Requirements for Engineering and Operati onal 
Standards – Operational Principles for Safe 
Movement On Rail.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
i 
  
Foreword  
 
The SADC Protocol on Trade was established under the SADC Treaty in 1996, to provide 
for the  elimination of tariffs and non -tariff barriers to trade.  One of the object ives of the 
Protocol on Trade under the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Annex (No. 8) is to 
establish a common technical regulation framework, which is supported by seven (7) 
regional TBT Cooperation Structures. The TBT Annex places  an obligation on Memb er 
states to pursue harmonization of standards and this is done through the SADC 
Cooperation in Standardisation (SADCSTAN) which is one of the 7 regional TBT 
Cooperation Structures.  
 
Co-operation in standardisation is expected to result into having uniform ly harmonised 
standards. Harmonisation of standards within the region is expected to reduce TBTs that 
are normally encountered when goods and services are exchanged among SADC Member 
States due to differences in technical requirements. Harmonized SADC Stan dards are also 
expected to result into benefits such as greater industrial productivity and competitiveness, 
increased agricultural production and food security, a more rational exploitation of natural 
resources among others.  
 
Harmonized SADC Standards are  developed by the SADC experts on standards 
through SADCSTAN Technical Committees  representing the National Standards 
Bodies and other stakeholders.  Further, SADCSTAN in certain instances 
collaborates with SADC Sector Associations in the harmonization of s tandards to 
address sector specific needs. In this regard, SADCSTAN collaborated with 
Southern African Railway Association (SARA) in the harmonization of this 
standard.   
 
This SADC  Harmonized Standards was prepared by the SADCSTAN Technical 
Committee  on Automobile and Transportation (SADCSTAN TC 2) in collaboration 
with SARA.  
 
SADC Harmonized Standards are drafted in accordance with the SADCSTAN 
Harmonization Procedures which are in line with internat ional procedures and 
practices.  
 
Attention is drawn to t he possibility that some of the elements of this document 
may be the subject of patent rights. SADCSTAN shall not be held responsible for 
identifying any or all such patent rights.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contents  MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
ii 
  
Foreword ……………………………………………………………………………………………i  
Contents……… ………………………………………………...………………………………….ii  
 
1 Scope  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................   1 
 
2 Normative references ................................ ................................ ...............................   2 
 
3 Definitions and abbreviations  ................................ ................................ ...................   2 
 
4 Train operations management  ................................ ................................ .................   4 
 
 4.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............   4 
 4.2 Behavioural pr inciples and related aspects  ................................ ......................   4 
 4.3 Communication  ................................ ................................ ................................   6 
 4.4 Actions  before the intended train  or shunt movement  ................................ .......  7 
 4.5 Actions during the train or shunt movement  ................................ .....................   12 
 4.6 Safety of roll ing stock whilst stationary  ................................ .............................   13 
 4.7 Abnorma l working and degraded mode  ................................ ............................   14 
 
5 Management of the life cycle of train operati ng standa rds and procedures  ..............   15 
 
 5.1 General  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............   15 
 5.2 New or amended train operating standards or procedures  ...............................   16 
 5.3 Life cycle phases  ................................ ................................ .............................   16 
 
6 Operator databases  ................................ ................................ ................................ .  17 
 
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
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___________________________________ ______________  
Railway Safety Management – Technical R equirements 
for Engineering and Operational Standards – Operational 
Principles for Safe Movement On Rail.   
 
1 Scope  
 
1.1 This standard covers the minimum requirements for operational principles for safe 
movement on rail . It includes the operational require ments to be complied with to 
ensure that operational safety is appropriately addressed in all operational 
circumstances.  
 
1.2 The development, amendment or withdrawal of a train operating standard or procedure 
comprises the following:  
 
a) Receipt  of a requ est; 
 
b) Initial  assessment of the request;  
 
c) Conditions ; 
 
d) Exclusion  criteria;  
 
e) Approval  in princip le; and  
 
f) Life cycle phases.  
 
 
1.3 The following principles and related aspects are applicable in each phase of the life 
cycle described in this st andard ; 
 
a)   Behavioural  principles and related aspects;  
 
b) Communication ; 
 
c) Actions  before the intended train or shunt movement;  
 
d) Actions  during the train or shunt movement;  
 
e) Safety  of rolling stock whilst stationary; and  
 
f) Abnormal  working an d degraded mode.  
 
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
2 
 2 Normative  references  
 
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this 
document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, 
the latest edition of the referenced documen t (including any amendments) applies. 
Information on currently valid national and international standards can be obtained from 
the relevant National Standards Body (NSB)  or SARA . 
 
 
SADC SARA  HT 89: Railway Safety  Management - General  
 
SADC  SARA  HT 90 : Railway Safety Managem ent - Technical Requirements for  
Engineering and Operational Standards - General  
 
SADC SARA  HT 93 : Railway Safety Management - Human  factors management.  
 
SARA  DG Handbook  
 
3 Definitions and abbreviations  
 
For the purposes of this documen t, the d efinitions given in th is standards are applicable . 
 
3.1 Definitions  
 
3.1.1  
abnormal  working  
deviation  from the train ’s normal working on a portion of the network that may or may not 
impact on the service capacity  
 
3.1.2  
accountability  
obligation  or willingness to accept ultimate responsibility or to account for one’s actions 
that cannot be shared  
 
3.1.3  
authorization  
official  permission or approval granted for the movement of rolling stock, i.e. train or shunt 
movement  
 
3.1.4 
degraded  mode  
any devia tion from the primary mode of train movement on a portion of the network, 
including the condition of the rolling stock and railway infrastructure elements, which 
impact on service capacity, but which are still safe  
 
NOTE  1   Degraded mode increases risks, which need to be mitigated.  
 
NOTE  2   The duration of degraded mode should be limited.  
 
3.1.5 
emergency  
serious , unexpected and potentially dangerous situation that requir es immediate action  
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
3 
 3.1.6 
handshaking  
exchange of information between an individual , group  or device  (or any combination of 
these)  such that the sender and receiver (s) are in agreement that the information received 
is identical to that sent and that the interpretation of the information by the receiver (s) is 
the same as that intended by t he sender  
 
 
3.1.7 
integrity  
condition  in which individual components of a system and the total system are unified, 
consistent and fit for purpose  
 
3.1.8 
line and route  
specified  track and other railway network infrastructure elements on which the train is 
intended to move  
 
3.1.9 
loading  profile  
consideration  of the  profile,  permitted  axle loading , permitted gross vehicle mass  and 
distribution  of the load on a wagon where applicable  
 
3.1.10 
operator’s working instructions  
instructions  issued normally in writ ing by the operator as defined by the operator’s internal 
processes  
 
3.1.11 
point 
switch  junction of two railway lines with a pair of linked tapering rail blades that can be 
moved laterally to allow a movement to pass from one line to another  
 
3.1.12  
respo nsibility  
ability to act or decide on one’s own and to explain such actions or decisions when asked  
 
3.1.13  
scotch  
device  that is placed on the rail and under the wheel of a stationary vehicle to prevent it 
from moving  
 
3.1.14 
service -worthy  
condition  of the rolling stock, track, station, infrastructure network or, any structure 
intended for the movement of a train at the desired level of service to allow safe movement  
 
3.1.15 
shunt movement  
movement  of a locomotive, motor -powered vehicle or vehicles  or of a locomotive or motor -
powered vehicle with vehicles attached, to, from, or on a running line or siding within 
certain prescribed limits  
 
 
 
3.1.16 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
4 
 train  
locomotive or motor -powered vehicle, with  a train number and end marker attached, at a 
stand or passing over a running line or siding, or any vehicle or vehicles, with an end -of-
train marker or device attached, coupled to a locomotive or motor vehicle, at a stand, or 
hauled or propelled over a running line or siding  
 
3.1.17 
train movement  
working  of a train on any railway line  
 
3.1.18  
train , traffic or vehicle list  
document containing information relating to the wagons and load on a train  
 
3.1.19 
train -worthy  
ability of the railway network infrastructure elements to ensure and sustain the safe 
movement of rol ling stock over the portion of the network  
 
3.2 Abbreviations  
 
OHTE : overhead traction equipment  
 
 
4 Train  operations management  
 
4.1 General  
 
4.1.1  The management of train operations shall be undertaken in compliance with the 
principles for safe movement on rail described in 4.2 to 4.7 throughout all phases of 
the life cycle of train operations  management as described in SADC SARA  HT 90 , to 
ensure safe railway operations.  
 
4.1.2  In the development, maintenance or adoption of detailed standards, processes a nd 
procedures, the principles and related requirements given in 4.2 to 4.7 , which are of 
equal importance for the safe movement on rail, shall be adhered to . 
 
4.2 Behavioural  principles and related aspects  
 
4.2.1 Fitness  for duty  
 
Operators shall ensure th at employees who undertak e safety related work are fit for duty 
as described in SADC  SARA  HT 89  and as amplified in SADC  SARA  HT 93 . 
 
4.2.2 Vigilance  and assessment of surroundings  
 
4.2.2.1  Operators  shall have processes and procedures in place that ensure  employees 
who undertak e safety related work are vigilant and aware of the surroundings in 
order to undertake safe railway operations.  
 
4.2.2. 2 Factors  to be considered shall include  the following : 
 
a) Devoting  full attention to the safety related tasks;  
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
5 
 b) ensuring safe and efficient working by constantly evaluating the work environment in 
order to obtain additional information that will dictate or influence the employee’s line of 
action; and  
 
c) Being  constantly observant in the workplace and its environ s. 
 
4.2.3 Understanding  and acceptance of  responsibility  
 
4.2.3.1  Employees  who undertak e safety related work shall understand and accept 
responsibility for their actions.  
 
4.2.3. 2 Factors  to be considered shall include  the following : 
 
a) Areas  of responsi bility;  
 
b) Transfer  and delegation of responsibility;  
 
c) Scope  of competencies;  
 
d) Health  and safety  of the employee s, colleagues, clients, the public, assets and the 
environment;  
 
e) Acting  in the best interest of railway safety;  
 
f) Relevant  standards , policies, rules, codes, instructions and national legislation;  
 
g) Emergency  situations; and  
 
h) Degraded  conditions.  
 
 
4.2.4 Accountability  
 
4.2.4.1  The accountability of employees undertaking safety related work cannot be shared.  
 
4.2.4. 2 Factors  to be  considered shall include  the following : 
 
a) Understanding  the areas of accountability;  
 
b) Understanding  the areas of responsibility;  
 
c) Emergency  situations; and  
 
d) Degraded and  abnormal conditions.  
 
 
 
4.3 Communication  
 
4.3.1  The communication princip les given in 4.3.2 to 4.3.4 regarding the parties involved in 
or affected by train operations management shall apply before, during and after each 
authorization , instruction or other information relevant to the movement of rolling 
stock . 
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
6 
 4.3.2 Handshaking  shall ensure common understanding. The authorization , instruction or 
other information provided shall not be acted upon until the handshaking is complete.  
 
Factors to be considered in the handshaking shall include  the following:  
 
a) The medium of communic ation, including written, electronic, verbal (oral), audible or 
physical (visible) communication in a common language ; 
 
b) Prevailing  conditions, including the weather, operational circumstances (constraints), 
possibility of interference with or corruption ; and  
 
c) The location of the sender and receiver.  
 
Where handshaking cannot be completed, the process shall be terminated and returned to 
a safe state.  
 
4.3.3 Information  shall be clear, unambiguous, structured and formali zed. 
 
Factors to be considered sh all include  the following : 
 
a) The medium of communication, including written, electronic, verbal (oral), audible or 
physical (visible) communication in a common language;  
 
b) Prevailing  conditions, including the weather, operational circumstances (constra ints), 
possibility of interference or corruption; and  
 
c) The location of the sender and receiver.  
 
4.3.4 Information  shall be communicated to all relevant interested and affected parties . 
 
Factors to be considered  regarding the type of information  include  the following : 
 
a) The nature of operations (normal, abnormal , degraded  or emergency ); 
 
b) track -side maintenance and construction staff, and contractors;  
 
c) Network , train and station operators;  
 
d) Media , both print and electronic;  
 
e) Relevant  stakeho lders (internal  and external); and  
 
f) Other  transport modes.  
 
 
4.4 Actions  before the intended train or shunt movement  
 
4.4.1 Service -worth iness of rolling stock  
 
4.4.1.1  The responsible persons shall certify that the rolling stock is service -worthy, and 
shall includ e the following : 
 
a) The assurance that the rolling stock is fit for purpose and technically sounds ; 
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
7 
 b) The understanding that the most conservative precondition or restriction placed on an 
item of rolling stock applies to the entire train; an d 
 
c) The undertaking that the rolling stock is loaded within the specification  limits  of both the 
rolling stock and network.  
 
4.4.1. 2 Factors  to be considered shall include  the following : 
 
a) The frequency and scope of the various checks to be carried out  shall be determined 
by the risks pertaining to the safety of the train.  
 
NOTE    Depending on the types of risk, some checks may only be required before a 
train leaves a maintenance depot; others may be required before a train starts  
each new journey or if  the compilation of a train is changed.  
 
b) The presence and functionality of relevant safety systems and equipment on the train 
shall be examined, including  
 
1) All braking systems , 
 
2) Securing  devices (scotches, clamps) , 
 
3) train protection systems , 
 
4) All communication systems , 
 
5) Internal  and external lighting systems , 
 
6) Equipment  monitoring systems , 
 
7) Vigilance  and reminder devices , 
 
8) Door  safety systems , 
 
9) Emergency  equipment and signage , 
 
10) Warning  devices (horn s, bell s, whistle s), 
 
11) end of train marker s or device s, 
 
12) Fire detection systems , 
 
13) Sanding  equipment , 
 
14) track circuit actuators , 
 
15) Train  authorization systems , and 
 
16) Speedometers . 
 
c) The following features of the train as an entity shall be examined and declare d safe for 
movement, with or without preconditions or restrictions, including  
 
1) The brake continuity , 
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
8 
 2) A means of indicating that the train is complete , 
 
3) The train composition , 
 
4) The coupling of vehicles , and 
 
5) Sufficient  traction power and bra king capability for anticipated gradients.  
 
d) The following characteristics of the train shall be established:  
 
1) Individual  vehicle loading and profile;  
 
2) The total mass;  
 
3) The number of vehicles and compilation;  
 
4) The actual length ; 
 
5) The available brake force;  
 
6) The maximum permitted speed;  
 
7) The presence of dangerous goods  as given in  the SADC  Dangerous Goods 
Handbook ; 
 
8) Compatibility  with the routes over which it is to travel; and  
 
9) Other  characteristics as may be required by the network requirements.  
 
e) The train crew shall be advised of  the following : 
 
1) Relevant  information arising from the preparation of their train ; and 
 
2) Relevant  operating characteristics for their train.  
 
4.4.1.3  The operating characteristics and identity of  each train shall be made available to 
the relevant network operator.  
 
4.4.1.4  The relevant network operator shall con firm to the train crew that the requirements 
of 4.4.2 have been met.  
 
 
4.4.2 Train -worth iness of the  defined line and route  
 
4.4.2.1  The responsible person shall certify that the inf rastructure elements of the network 
are train -worthy by ensuring that they are  
 
a) Technically  sound, with or without preconditions or restrictions , and 
 
b) Fit for purpose to enable the movement to take place sa fely and effectively.  
 
4.4.2.2  Factors  to be considered shall include  the following : 
 
a) The frequency and scope of the checks to be carried out shall be determined by the 
prevailing risk to operational safety of the train, on r egular and ad hoc network sit uation 
or condition reports received, and changes to the operating environment.  MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
9 
  
b) Track  aspects shall include  the following : 
 
1) Traffic  density and loading ; 
 
2) Incidences  of malicious damage and theft ; 
 
3) Severe  weather conditions, such as  flooding an d abnormal temperatures ; and  
 
4) The integrity  of the track . 
 
c) Aspects relating to the c ivil infrastructure  shall include  the following : 
 
1) The integrity of the formation and civil structures (bridges, tunnels, culverts) ; 
 
2) Drainage  that impact on the integrity of the track structure ; 
 
3) Incidences  of malicious damage and theft ; 
 
4) Diverse  weather conditions, such as flooding and abnormal temperatures ; and  
 
5) Level  crossings . 
 
d) Aspects relating to the t rain authorization  equipment  shall include  the following : 
 
1) Integrity  of the train authorization equipment ; 
 
2) Incidences  of malicious damage and theft ; and  
 
3) Severe  weather conditions, such as flooding and abnormal temperatures . 
 
e) Aspects relating to w ayside equipment and signage shall includ e the following : 
 
1) The integrity of the train authorization equipment;  
 
2) Incidences  of malicious damage and theft; and  
 
3) Severe  weather conditions, such as flooding and abnormal temperatures.  
 
f) Aspects relating to the p ower supply, overhead tractio n equipment (O HTE) and 
substations  shall include  the following : 
 
1) The integrity of OHTE and substations;  
 
2) The integrity of supply ; 
 
3) Incidences  of malicious damage and theft ; and  
 
4) Severe  weather conditions, such as flooding and abnormal temperatu res. 
 
g) The design parameters of the rolling stock, line and route  shall include  the following : 
 
1) The integrity of the rolling stock, line and route ; 
 
2)  Incidences  of malicious damage and theft ; and  
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
10 
 3) Severe  weather conditions, such as  flooding and abnormal temperatures . 
 
 
4.4.3 Defined  line and route for the intended train or shunt movement  
 
4.4.3.1  The line and route over which the movement is to take place shall be  defined by  
 
a) Predetermining , the route and line over which the movement is to tak e place, including 
a given departure point and a given destination point , 
 
b) Ensuring  that all points (where applicable) over which the person authori zing the 
movement has control are identified, correctly set and where necessary secured for the 
intended movement over the chosen route , 
 
c) Ensuring , where the person authori zing the movement is not in control of all the points 
(where applicable) over the chosen route or line, that the responsibility for correctly 
setting and where necessary securing those p oints, is allocated to an authori zed 
person , 
 
d) confirming, where more than one person is involved in defining the route and line, 
setting and where necessary securing of the points, and defining the departure point 
and destination point over which the mo vement will take place, that there is agreement 
between them regarding the intended movement , and 
 
e) Confirming  that all parties affecting or affected by the intended movement are aware of 
such movement.  
 
4.4.3. 2 Factors  to be considered shall include  the following : 
 
a) The availability of network elements/components ; and  
 
b) The construction activities on adjacent, or above the route and line . 
 
 
4.4.4 Clear  line and route for the intended movement  
 
4.4.4.1  The route and line over which the movement is to take place shall be clear  by 
 
a) ensuring that the person authori zing the movement, through technology or other 
means  (or both)  at his /her disposal and to the best of his /her knowledge, can declare 
the defined route and line between the given departure poi nt and the given destination 
point free of obstructions , and 
 
b) Ensuring  that the recipient of the authority to undertake a movement is made aware of 
any known restrictions before the starting  of the train/shunt movement and to ensure, 
as far as he /she can see or establish that the route and line are clear and 
unobstructed.  
 
4.4.4. 2 Factors  to be considered shall include  the following : 
 
a) Authority  for the movement ; 
 
b) Restrictions  on network elements/components ; and  
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
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 c) Construction  activities adjacent or above the route and line . 
 
 
4.4.5 Reserved  line and route  for the intended movement  
 
4.4.5.1  The line and route shall be reserved for the intended movement and shall remain 
unavailable for any other authorization  until proven clear again.  
 
4.4.5.2  The authorization  for the movement is issued and received in accordance with the 
principles described in clauses 4.2.3 and 4.2.4 to ensure that  
 
a) A train or shunting movement only starts  once the authorization  is received and, where 
applicable, the proceed si gn/signal/indicator/verbal instruction is given , 
 
b) The route, line, departure point and destination point are included , 
 
c) Only one authorization  at a time is issued for a movement or series of movements over 
the defined line and route , 
 
d) Where  requir ed, one authorization  may combine a number of movements , 
 
e) The movement is completed before a new authorization  for that defined route and line 
is issued , and 
 
f) Where  the movement cannot be completed it shall be in accordance with clause 4.3.2. 
 
4.4.5. 3 Factors  to be considered shall include  the following : 
 
a) The degraded mode procedures to be implemented in the case where the movement 
cannot be completed ; and  
 
b) The applicable method of trains working.  
 
4.4.6 Authorization  for the movement of rolling  stock over the line and route  
 
The following principles are inherent in the authorization  of rolling stock movements (train 
and shunt movements):  
 
a) An authorization  shall only be issued to and accepted by the person who is responsib le 
for the safe movem ent of rolling stock.  
 
b) An authorization  shall 
 
1) be unambiguous, to the point and have only one intended outcome , 
 
2) have the same interpretation by the person issuing the authority and the person 
accepting the authority , 
 
3) Be in the specified forma t, 
 
4) Be executed only when all other required conditions to proceed are fulfilled , and 
 
5) Prevent  conflicting movements.  
 
c) An authorization  shall be complied with in all respects, including any instructions and 
conditions contained in the authorizatio n. MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
12 
  
d) An authorization  shall be valid  
 
1) Until fully executed , 
 
2) Unless  withdrawn by the person authori zing the movement, before the start of the 
movement contemplated in the authorization , 
 
3) Unless  withdrawn before the completion of the movement or movements 
authori zed, provided that no conflicting authorization s are subsequently issued , and 
 
4) Until surrendered by the person who is responsib le for the safe movement of rolling 
stock who received the authorization  before the start of or during the mo vement.  
 
e) The traceability of any authorization  regarding train movements  between the different 
parties involved shall be ensured.  
 
 
4.5 Actions  during the train or shunt movement  
 
4.5.1 Compliance  with the conditions of the authorization  
 
The persons wh o are responsib le for the safe movement of rolling stock during a train or 
shunting movement shall ensure that the train or shunting movement is stopped  in the 
following instances:  
 
a) At the limit of authorization  or series of authorization s, 
 
b) When  circumstances dictate that it is unsafe to proceed , 
 
c) At scheduled stops as defined in a timetable or notice , and 
 
d) By special arrangement, preferably in writing.  
 
4.5.2 Compliance  with the design parameters of the rolling stock, line and route  
 
The perso n who is responsib le for certifying that the rolling stock is service -worthy  shall 
also certify that the rolling stock is loaded within the structure profile and mass limitations 
of both the rolling stock and network.  
 
4.5.3 Compliance  of train handling with prevailing circumstances  and conditions  
 
Whilst the train is moving, the person who is accountab le for the safe handling of the 
movement of rolling stock shall ensure that the train or shunting movement is carried out 
safely by  
 
a) Complying  with all tr ain handling techniques relevant to the forces impacting on the 
train as required by the prevailing conditions and circumstances , and 
 
b) Planning  the train handling techniques at least one step but preferably two steps ahead  
in the required sequence of tr ain handling actions . 
 
4.5.4 Compliance  with the relevant speed instructions and indicators  
 
Whilst the train is moving, the person who is accountab le for the safe handling of the MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
13 
 movement of rolling stock  shall ensure that the train or shunting movement i s carried out 
safely by  
 
a) Strictly  complying with the relevant speed instructions , 
 
b) Obeying  all applicable speed boards, other speed -related signs and indicators 
alongside the track, and hand signals , 
 
c) Obeying  all applicable on -board speed and non -speed related signs and indicators , 
 
d) Reducing  speed when circumstances demand , and 
 
e) Adhering  to all non -speed -related trackside signs and indicators alongside or above 
the track , and  
 
f) Adhering  to station platform signs and indicators.  
 
 
4.5.5 Comp letion  of the intended movement  
 
The following actions shall be carried out:  
 
a) Proceed  to the destination point defined by the authorization unless required to stop by 
force of circumstance, or , 
 
b) For operating requirements,  stop at the limit of the au thorization unless a further 
authorization is received to proceed to the next destination point (limit).  
 
 
4.6 Safety  of rolling stock whilst stationary  
 
4.6.1 Prevention  of side-on collisions  
 
The rolling stock shall be placed clear of the adjoining lines  for the next intended 
movements by standing within the relevant clearance mark (s) of converging lines . 
 
4.6.2 Prevention  of unintentional movement  
 
The rolling stock shall be secured by the application of appropriate braking mechanisms 
and scotches to pre vent unintentional movement , which may compromise safety . 
 
4.6.3 Prevention  of conflicting or irregular movements  
 
The rolling stock shall be protected by all appropriate means to prevent conflicting or 
irregular movements and unsafe conditions.  
 
 
4.7 Abno rmal  working and degraded mode  
 
4.7.1  General  
 
The principles and related requirements described in 4.2 to 4.6 shall be applied in any 
abnormal working, or degraded mode over a line and route, or part thereof, which has 
resulted in the suspension of the tr ain authorization method or the implementation of a fall -
back procedure, or both.  
 
4.7.2 Temporary  loss of functionality of a train authorization system  MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
14 
  
4.7.2.1 Controls  
 
The network operator shall determine the arrangements in consultation with the relev ant 
operators for ensuring the safe movement of trains when there is a loss of functionality or 
part thereof, in the train authorization system. Where some of the functions of the normal 
train authorization system are still available, these should be used where it is practicable to 
do so, and their use shall be identified in the operator ’s working instructions. All relevant 
role players shall be informed of the arrangements.  
 
4.7.2.2 Authority  
 
The arrangements to be adopted shall be authorised by the netwo rk operator.  
 
4.7.2.3 Documentation  
 
Agreed arrangements shall be issued in writing to all relevant role players.  
 
4.7.2.4 Communication  
 
The network operator shall have processes and procedures in place to provide timely 
advice of the altered method of wo rking to the appropriate parties , including the relevant 
operators.  
 
4.7.3 Rolling  stock  
 
4.7.3.1 Controls  
 
The train operator shall determine the arrangements in consultation with the relevant 
operators for ensuring the safe movement of a train when there  is a loss of functionality or 
part thereof, in the rolling stock constituting the train. Where some of the functions of the 
rolling stock are still available, these should be used where it is practicable and safe to do 
so, and their use shall be identifie d in the operator ’s working  instructions. All relevant role 
players shall be informed of the operation of the rolling stock in degraded mode.  
 
4.7.3.2 Authority  
 
The arrangements to be adopted shall be authori zed by the network operator.  
 
4.7.3.3 Documenta tion 
 
Agreed arrangements shall be issued in writing to all relevant role players.  
 
4.7.3.4 Communication  
 
The network operator shall have processes and procedures in place to provide timely 
advice of the operation of the rolling stock in degraded mode to  the appropriate parties, 
including the relevant operators.  
 
4.7.4 Infrastructure  elements (other than a train authorization  system)  
 
4.7.4.1 Controls  
 
The network operator shall determine the arrangements in consultation with the relevant 
operators for ens uring the safe movement of trains when there is a loss of functionality or 
part thereof, of railway infrastructure elements, other than the train authorization  system. MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
15 
 Where some of the infrastructure element functions are still available, these should be 
used where it is practicable and safe to do so and their use shall be identified in  the 
operator ’s working instructions. All relevant role players shall be informed of the 
arrangements.  
 
4.7.4.2 Authority  
 
The arrangements to be adopted shall be authori zed by the network operator.  
 
4.7.4.3 Documentation  
 
Agreed arrangements shall be issued in writing to all relevant role players.  
 
4.7.4.4 Communication  
 
The network operator shall have processes and procedures in place to provide timely 
advice of the operati on of the network elements in degraded mode to the appropriate 
parties , including the relevant operators.  
 
 
5 Management  of the life cycle of train operating standards and procedures  
 
 
5.1 General  
 
Relevant  operators shall have formal structures to manage the life cycle of train operating 
standards and procedures , as given in 5.2 and 5.3 . 
 
 
5.2 New or amended train operating standard s or procedure s 
 
Processes  and procedures shall be established, developed or adopted, documented and 
maintained by operators f or the following : 
 
a) All applications for  new, additions to or withdrawals of a train operating standard or 
procedure shall be logged in a n operator central registry  and other relevant operators 
and parties shall be notified.  
 
b) The initial assessment  during the feasibility study  of an application for or notification of 
a new or modified train operating standard or procedure  shall include  the following : 
 
1) Information  on an existing similar standard;  
 
2) Whether  any one of operating principles as describ ed in 4.2 to 4.7 could not be 
met; 
 
3) Whether  the proposed standard or procedure is only applicable to a particular 
operator;  
 
4) The risk assessment and the level of the residual risk after mitigatio n; 
 
5) An evaluation on the impact on operational safet y; and  
 
6) The cost benefits  analysis in terms of safety . 
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
16 
 c) Approval in principle shall include the following:  
 
1) The affected network and train operators shall consider the proposal in the light of 
the feasibility study ; 
 
2) on approval in principle, e ach affected operator shall appoint or nominate suitably 
experienced and qualified persons to jointly develop the new or amended train 
operating standard or procedure ; and 
 
3) Projects  approved in principle shall be subjected to the life cycle phases descr ibed 
in 5.3. 
 
 
5.3 Life-cycle phases  
 
5.3.1  Processes  and procedures shall be established, developed or adopted, documented 
and maintained by operators for the development of new or the amend ment  of 
existing train operating standards and procedures that ha ve been approved in 
principle in accordance with 5. 2, and shall be developed in compliance with the 
applicable principles described in 4.2 to 4.7  
 
5.3.2  Further  to the operational risk management processes described in SADC SARA  HT 
89 and SADC SARA  HT 90 , operators shall establish, develop or adopt, implement 
and maintain policies and procedures to conduct risk assessments for the 
development of new or the amend ment  of existing train operating standards or 
procedures.  
 
5.3.3 Risk assessments shall be conduc ted jointly by relevant and affected operators.  
 
5.3.4 The records of risk assessments shall be retained for review by the relevant authority 
responsible  for  railway safety (see foreword) . 
 
5.3.5 The life-cycle process comprises the phases described in SADC SARA  HT 89  and 
SADC SARA  HT 90 , which are interpreted as follows:  
 
a) Design : initial concept and draft of the proposed train operating standard or procedure;  
 
b) construction/manufacturing : development of a working draft of the proposed train 
operating  standard or procedure. The working draft shall be approved by the relevant 
and affected operators for commissioning;  
 
c) Commissioning : test ing and implement ation of  the new or amended train operating 
standard or procedure and evaluat ion of the  performanc e and feedback before full 
implementation, with or without amend ment ; 
 
d) Operation : upon acceptance after commissioning, full implement ation of  the new or 
amended train operating standard or procedure;  
 
e) Monitoring  and maintenance : continual monitor ing and review of the safety 
performance in terms of the new or modified train operating standard or procedure;  
 
f) Amendment : amend ment of  the operating standard or procedure where shortcomings 
are experienced by following the entire life -cycle process ; and  
 MEDC 9 ( 2040 ) DTZS / SADC SARA HT 95 : 2017  
17 
 g) Decommissioning  and disposal : withdraw al of  the train operating standard or 
procedure when the train operating standard or procedure is superseded by a new or 
amended standard.  
 
NOTE    Two different  train-operating  standards or procedures cannot be in f orce at the 
same place and same time  (configuration management) . 
 
 
6 Operator  databases  
 
6.1 Processes  and procedures shall be established, developed or adopted; implemented 
and maintained by operators to ensure that existing, new, reviewed or withdrawn tr ain 
operating standards or procedures are recorded on a suitable database, which shall 
be readily available and accessible to other operators by agreement.  
 
6.2 This database shall include at least the following information:  
 
a) An application for and noti fication of change;  
 
b) A unique identification number, title, version and review date;  
 
c) The classification of the train operating standards and procedure ; 
 
NOTE    Whether the operating standard or procedure is in a circular, notice or YQ 
format . 
 
d) The operator ’s name and contact details;  
 
e) Records  of risk assessments pertaining to train operations and procedures; and  
 
f) The status of the train operational standard or procedure.  
 
 NOTE   Whether the operating standard or procedure is still valid or withdrawn .