Code of Practice - Risk Management for Driver Only Operation

This document aims to provide guidance on how hazards and risks associated with DOO are identified, assessed and considered in the context of the particular Rail Transport Operator (RTO) operations and accreditation to manage the hazards safe so far as is reasonably practicable (SFAIRP).

This document offers a comprehensive approach to Driver Only Operation (DOO) with attention to safety, operational reliability, and regulatory compliance.

This product offers guidance on identifying, assessing, and managing the hazards and risks associated with DOO, ensuring operations are safe “so far as is reasonably practicable” (SFAIRP).

The aim of this product is to support rail operators in Australia with a risk methodology for safely implementing DOO promoting safety through systematic risk management for both normal and emergency situations.

This CoP provides a risk-based approach for determining if DOO can be introduced and operated safely. Designed to provide a consistent approach to identify and manage risk associated with operating rail traffic with a driver only to further opportunities for harmonization and interoperability.

Driver Incapacitation and Error: Controls for incapacitation, error prevention, and fatigue management.

Increased Operational Demands on Drivers: Training, simulation exercises, and workload assessments prepare drivers for solo operation.

Environmental and Equipment Factors: Controls for environmental conditions (e.g., extreme weather) and equipment reliability (e.g., cab ergonomics, CCTV) address operational safety.

Risk Assessment and Methodology: Adopt the structured risk assessment processes outlined, integrating them with the organization’s Safety Management System.

Training and Support: Provide role-specific training, especially for situations unique to DOO, and ensure drivers are equipped with necessary skills and tools for emergency response.

Infrastructure and Procedural Adjustments: Adapt platforms, terminals, and yards to meet DOO requirements, ensuring compatibility with one-person operations and enabling necessary procedural changes for safe transitions.