PTS & DCCR Combined
Initial / Recert
Course Summary
The PTS course is comprised of two components.
There is an e-learning training package followed by a practical training day. Successful completion of the e-learning assessment is required prior to attendance on the practical training day.
This practical training module is designed to train persons who are responsible for undertaking Personal Track Safety training as part of their duties on Network Rail Infrastructure.
It is designed to develop a person’s knowledge, understanding and skills and is therefore particularly suited to persons required to prove their competence in these areas.
Course Aim
The aim of the course is to instruct delegates on correctly determining their responsibilities and duties when working on or near the line.
Pre-requisites & Requirements
Delegates must:
Must be a minimum age of 16.
Must meet the medical requirements of Network Rail Standard
NR/L2/OHS/00124 Competence Specific Fitness Medical Requirements.
Must meet the Drug and Alcohol requirements of Network Rail Standard NR/L2/OHS/00120 which
includes a valid D&A test uploaded to Sentinel no later than 12-weeks from the course date.
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/L2/CTM/021 (Competence & Training in Track Safety).
Course Award
Delegates will be awarded with a Sentinel recognised certificate upon successful completion of this course.
Successful completion of the course will lead to the issue of a Network Rail Sentinel Track Safety Card, valid for two years. The card will be validated with PTS and also a green square (which signifies that the person must be accompanied at all times, as well as being required to wear a blue safety helmet).
Delegates who will be required to work in AC Overhead Lines areas will need to successfully complete the AC element of the course and have this added to their card.
Delegates who will be required to work in DC (“third rail”) electrified areas will need to successfully complete the additional one-day DCCR course and have this added to their card.
Additional Information
A PTS Keypoint booklet (RT9922) will be given to each candidate at the start of the course and a PTS Logbook (NR9968) will be issued to the candidate by the Trainer upon successful completion of the course. Provision of, and access to, the relevant Network Rail rulebooks and handbooks are the responsibility of the candidate’s Sponsor.
NOTE: The AC Electrification module is built into this course, but it is possible the candidate to pass the PTS module of the course but not pass the AC module. Should this occur and the delegate specifically requires a PTS (AC) then it is not possible to re-sit the AC as a stand-alone exam and the entire PTS Initial process has to be started again, including the e-learning module.
Why hold PTS & DCCR Competencies?
The PTS & DCCR competence is a critical safety qualification for anyone who needs to work on or near railway lines that are electrified by a DC Conductor Rail (often referred to as the "Third Rail"). It combines the fundamental personal track safety knowledge with essential awareness and procedures for working safely in proximity to the high-voltage conductor rail.
What is PTS & DCCR?
PTS & DCCR signifies that an individual holds the foundational Personal Track Safety (PTS) competence and has received specific training on the unique hazards and safe working procedures associated with the Direct Current (DC) Conductor Rail system. The DC Conductor Rail carries a high voltage (typically 750V DC) and is a continuous, exposed rail located alongside the running rails. It poses a severe risk of electrocution if contact is made or if safe clearances are breached. This combined competence is mandatory for accessing areas equipped with a live or isolated DC conductor rail.
Key Duties and Responsibilities of a PTS & DCCR Holder:
In addition to all the duties of a standard PTS holder (maintaining vigilance, obeying instructions, using PPE, etc.), a PTS & DCCR competent person has specific responsibilities related to the DC Conductor Rail:
Identifying DC Conductor Rail Hazards: Recognising the live conductor rail, bonding cables, and associated equipment, understanding the severe risks of electrocution.
Maintaining Safe Clearances: Knowing and strictly adhering to the specified minimum safe distances from the live conductor rail, even when not directly working on it.
Understanding Isolation Procedures: Being aware that the conductor rail can be isolated (de-energised and earthed) for safe working, but understanding that induced voltage can still be present even when isolated.
Complying with Electrical Safety Instructions: Strictly following all instructions given by an Authorised Person (AP), Nominated Person (NP), or COSS regarding electrical safety and isolation.
Recognising Warning Signs: Understanding specific signage and markings related to DC conductor rail areas.
Emergency Response: Knowing and implementing specific emergency procedures in the event of an electrical incident involving the conductor rail.
Safe Movement: Moving safely and cautiously within a DC electrified area, being mindful of where to step and place tools or equipment.
Where a PTS & DCCR Competent Person can work within TES:
The PTS & DCCR competence is essential for any TES personnel working on projects located in regions of the UK rail network that utilise the third rail electrification system (e.g., much of the Southern region, Merseyside, parts of London Underground). This includes:
Permanent Way (P-Way): Any track maintenance, renewals, or repairs carried out in DC electrified areas.
Electrification (3rd Rail specific): Personnel supporting 3rd rail installation, maintenance, or fault-finding teams (though direct work on the rail would require higher competencies).
Technical Services: Individuals conducting inspections, surveys, or minor works near the DC conductor rail.
Signalling & Telecoms: Working on lineside equipment in 3rd rail areas.
Civils Teams: For bridge or structure works adjacent to DC electrified lines.
Possession Management: All personnel working within a possession that encompasses DC electrified track.
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