This code of practice applies to tracks constructed on sleepers in open ballasted track with rails which are continuously welded, long welded or mechanically jointed.
Direct fixation track system such as those on track slabs have their own performance characteristics and are not included in the scope of this document.
The code covers rail networks classified in AS 7630 Railway Infrastructure – Track Classification for all track gauges.
Being a RISSB Code of Practice, this document is a set of descriptions i.e. it is the “how” to meet a higher-level requirement, in this case that set out in AS 7643 – Railway Infrastructure: Track Stability. This Code may not be the only way to meet the requirements of AS 7643, thus it is not mandated and certainly not prescribed by law, but for organisations that choose to adopt it, it becomes normative. Indeed, RISSB recognises that different networks have different operating conditions, risk profiles and infrastructure management practices. Infrastructure managers may meet the requirements of AS 7643 in other ways and/or ways that exceed the expectations of this Code.
