PIC/COSS Rule Book Update

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. 10 questions. Pass mark 95%. Time allowed: 15 minutes.

Download the one-page list of changes (PDF)

What is new

1. HB7 3.2: the rule for patrolling alone has gone. If you work alone within 2 m of an open line and the work does not affect the line, you need a fenced safe system of work or equipment warning.
2. HB9 3.1: in a work site you get the work-site briefing from the ES. You no longer sign the RT3199.
3. HB9: "engineering train or OTP" movements replace "train or OTP" movements. An engineering train includes on-track machines. It does not include OTP.
4. HB9 section 4: transient work sites replace "working outside a work site". The 25 mph PICOP arrangement has gone. Allowed work is only patrolling, inspecting, examining, and placing or removing speed restriction boards, indicators and AWS magnets. The ES sets up the site. When a movement is to enter, the ES tells you. You confirm all work has stopped. You start again only when the ES says the site is set up again. You may work within 100 m of either end if the ES allows it.
5. HB1 7.8 (new): balise readers. Some traction units have balise reader antennae. You must not work under the vehicle or within 1 m of the radar and balise antenna unless you are told the balise reader is not operative.

Sources: GERT8000-HB7 Issue 11, GERT8000-HB9 Issue 10 and GERT8000-HB1 Issue 10 (in force 5 December 2026).