Question

explain the interface between plain line track and the off-track environment including leaf fall and vegetation management and the interface with signal sighting and OLE equipment.

Answer 1

Tracks are the rails on which the trains run and include the points that allow the trains to switch tracks. There are over many miles of track on the railway network. Just like the roads and motorways need resurfacing the rails and points require renewal and regular maintenance to ensure they meet the stringent safety standards on the railway. This means that trains can operate safely and reliably.There is in excess of 9,000 miles of railway routes in Britain and much of it runs through countryside. This means that there is a lot of vegetation adjacent to the railway lines. It is essential to keep this vegetation trimmed back not only to prevent it encroaching on the railway but also to reduce the impact of leaf fall on the railway during autumn. A programme of vegetation clearance and cutting back is undertaken as necessary.