Possession Support (PS) refers to a crucial competency and a team of dedicated individuals who provide essential assistance to the Person In Charge Of Possession (PICOP) and the entire Possession Management operation. They are the logistical and administrative backbone, ensuring that all aspects of a rail possession run smoothly and efficiently, allowing the on-site work teams to focus on their primary tasks.

What is Possession Support?

Possession Support staff are trained individuals who work to facilitate the successful execution of railway possessions. While the PICOP holds ultimate responsibility, PS personnel handle a wide range of tasks that underpin the possession, from pre-planning assistance to on-site logistics and coordination. They are vital for enabling the PICOP to maintain strategic oversight, by taking care of the critical practical details that keep the operation on schedule and compliant.

Key Duties and Responsibilities of Possession Support:

The duties of Possession Support are varied and demand strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and proactive problem-solving. These can include:

• Pre-Possession Planning Assistance: Assisting the PICOP and Possession Management team with preparation, including checking documentation, verifying access points, and coordinating resource allocation.

• On-Site Logistical Support: Managing the flow of personnel, plant (machinery), and materials into and out of the possession limits. This can involve directing vehicles, operating temporary access gates, and ensuring correct parking.

• Communication Relay: Acting as a vital link in the communication chain, relaying messages between different work groups, the PICOP, and external stakeholders, helping to maintain situational awareness across the site.

• Safety Observation & Reporting: Maintaining vigilance for any immediate hazards or non-compliance on site and reporting them promptly to the relevant safety authority (e.g., COSS, PICOP).

• Administrative Support: Handling various administrative tasks such as signing in/out personnel, managing welfare facilities, and maintaining basic site records.

• Welfare Management: Ensuring that adequate welfare facilities (e.g., toilets, rest areas, refreshments) are available and maintained within the possession limits for all staff.

• Site Security: Assisting with securing the perimeter of the possession where necessary to prevent unauthorised access.

• Assisting with Hand-Back: Supporting the PICOP in ensuring the site is clear and safe for hand-back at the end of the possession, including assisting with equipment removal and final checks.

Where Possession Support can work within TES:

The Possession Support competency is central to TES's efficient delivery of projects that rely on rail possessions. They primarily work within:

• Possession Management: This is the core department where Possession Support staff are integral. They are the hands-on support for PICOPs and the wider planning team.

• Project Delivery Teams: Embedded within large project teams to ensure the smooth running of access and egress during track works.

• Site Operations: Providing general site logistical and safety assistance during complex trackside activities.