PICOP working location
Scope: All Network Rail Line Managers, safety professionals and accredited contractors
Ref: NRA25-03
Date: 07/04/2025
Location: National
Contact: Simon Wilkinson, Head of Infrastructure Access, System Operator
Overview
Recently there have been some examples where PICOPs (Person in Charge of Possession) are undertaking their duties from unsuitable locations, such as working from home. This is not acceptable normal practice as highlighted in Recommendation three from the Balham RAIB (Rail Accident Investigation Board) investigation Report.
PICOPs shall work from the most appropriate location and have access to the tools, resources and equipment required to perform their duties. This would normally be a Possession Control Centre, appropriate Network Rail / Contractor office, on-site or a Route Signalling Centre.
It is important that PICOPs are actively engaged with this important safety activity: -
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Maintaining overall control of the possession.
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Able and capable to manage incidents.
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Can collaborate with the right staff to provide leadership.
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Make sure critical site documentation for possession limits, worksite limits, isolation, and other permit-to-work documents are created and assured.