The railway does not forgive assumptions.
Operational Railway: Infrastructure, AC/DC Power and Lineside Safety is a practical illustrated reference guide for anyone seeking a clearer understanding of the systems, infrastructure and hazards that make up the operational railway.
Written by Robert Porter from the perspective of real operational railway experience, the book explains how track, trains, electricity, structures, people and operational control interact within one complex safety-critical system.
Beginning with the fundamentals of railway infrastructure, the guide explores running rails, sleepers, ballast, points and crossings, track areas, gauge, cant and clearance before moving into railway electrification.
Readers are introduced to 25 kV AC overhead line equipment, 750 V DC conductor rail systems and the four-rail DC principles associated with London Underground. The book also examines pantographs, vehicle roof and cantrail hazards, signals and warning systems, tunnels, bridges, bridge strikes, level crossings, weather, vegetation, stations, yards and depots.
Particular attention is given to operational interfaces: understanding who controls risk, communicating accurately during incidents and recognising when assumptions must give way to controlled railway information.
Illustrated diagrams, quick-reference sections, safety observations, a knowledge check, glossary and extensive references make the book useful both for newcomers to the railway and experienced personnel seeking a concise refresher.
This is an educational and reference guide rather than a substitute for PTS, electrical, driver, signaller, engineering or other competence-based railway training. Operational decisions must always be made using the current Rule Book, standards, route information, local instructions and authorised railway processes.
