Rail Possession Working SWMS
Possession working procedures under network rules — possession protection officer, T2 protector, possession roles and responsibilities. Hi-rail vehicle entry/exit, work pack closure.
SWMS variants reference your state’s WHS legislation. Instant download after payment.
Rail possession working covers protection officer duties, T2 protector roles, hi-rail vehicle on/off-tracking, and work pack closure within rail corridors. Triggered by WHS Regulation 2025, Rail Safety National Law 2012 and ONRSR network rules, this high-consequence work demands documented SWMS before any possession is taken.
Hazards identified
3 hazards covered, sorted by priority.
Worker struck by train; multiple fatalities
Electrocution from 25kV traction supply
Plant rollover, crush injuries, corridor blockage
Control measures
Hierarchy-of-controls order: elimination → substitution → isolation → engineering → administrative → PPE.
- 1Possession Protection Officer issues T2 protection; worksite limits confirmed by handsignaller before any work commences.
- 2OHLE isolation permit obtained; earth straps applied; minimum 3m approach distance maintained until verified de-energised.
- 3Hi-rail on/off-track only at approved access points under PPO authority with competent operator and spotter.
Applicable Codes of Practice
Network rules and possession protection legal framework
Competency requirements for PPO and T2 protectors
High-Risk Construction Work triggered
All possession work occurs within the live rail corridor under network protection rules.
25kV overhead traction lines remain a hazard until isolated and earthed.
SWMS mandatory before work starts; non-compliance breaches WHS Reg 291.
What you receive
- ✓Editable DOCX SWMS template ready for project customisation
- ✓State-specific WHS legislation and ONRSR schedule reference
- ✓Hazard register covering possession, OHLE and hi-rail risks
- ✓Worker sign-on register for PPO, T2 and crew acknowledgement
Related legislation
- WHS Regulation 2025 — Clause 291 (HRCW SWMS)
- Rail Safety National Law Act 2012
- ONRSR Rail Safety Worker Drug & Alcohol Code