Free until 5 December 2026. Sign-up needed.
These changes to the Rule Book come into force on 5 December 2026. Read the list of changes below. Then take the assessment. 13 questions. Pass mark 95%. Time allowed: 15 minutes.
Download the one-page list of changes (PDF)
What is new
- You confirm the possession procedure and protection method with the PICOP. They must be as published. (3.1)
- With engineering controls: place the WSMB at least 200 m from the protecting signal or possession exit signal. No work within 100 m of the WSMB. If 200 m is not possible, place it as far as possible. Movements towards that WSMB need the PICOP's permission. (3.4, 6.6)
- If WSMBs are not provided, no work within 200 m of the protecting signal (with engineering controls). (3.4)
- If you are the first or last work site, you give the PICOP the location of the entry or exit WSMB. Give mileage and structures. (3.4)
- The PICOP gives you "authority to allow work to start". The words "full initials" have gone. (3.6)
- Transient work sites. (3.7) Same two types of work. Record on the RT3199. Give up the site before a movement enters. Do not ask to set up again until it has passed out. You may allow work within 100 m of the end of a transient work site, with PICOP permission.
- For the work site, you no longer get the COSS or IWA to sign the RT3199. (4.1, 4.2) In a protection zone they still sign. (12.4)
- The "20 mph through the site of work" rule for lookout warning in darkness or near a tunnel has gone.
- Trolleys: no trolley on the line or moving within 200 m of a protecting or possession exit signal without the signaller's permission. (6.7)
- Leaving the last work site with engineering controls. (6.9) You tell the PICOP. You remove the WSMB when told, and replace it after the movement.
- Shortening or lengthening a work site: only if planned and published, and only with PICOP permission. Do not remove old WSMBs until the new ones are in place. Tell the PICOP where they are and say if they are first or last. (s10)
- Giving up: if you were the first or last work site with engineering controls, you tell the PICOP. (11.3) Record on Appendix B of the RT3199 when an isolation COSS is used. (11.1, 11.2)
- Protection zone: limits start at least 200 m beyond the protecting signal. A wrong-direction movement must not bring the train within 200 m of the protecting signal. (12.1, 12.6)
Source: GERT8000-HB12 Issue 12 (in force 5 December 2026). Section numbers are in brackets.
