Uncontrolled copy from the catalogue dated August 2004

Railway Group Standard

GC/RT5100
Issue Three
Date April 2004

Safe Management
of Structures

Synopsis
This document mandates the
requirements for managing the
structural integrity of structures so that
they do not present an unacceptable
risk to safety as a result of their
condition, use or location.

Submitted by

This document is the property of the Rail

Safety and Standards Board Limited. It
shall not be reproduced in whole or in
Paul Woolford part without the written permission of the
Project Manager Department Head of Railway Group
Standards Management, Rail Safety and
Standards Board.
Authorised by
Published by:
Rail Safety and Standards Board
Evergreen House
160 Euston Road
London NW1 2DX
Anne Blakeney
Acting Department Head © Copyright 2004 Rail Safety and
Railway Group Standards Management Standards Board Limited
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Safe Management of Structures Date April 2004
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Contents
Section Description Page

Part A
A1 Issue record 2
A2 Implementation of this document 2
A3 Scope of Railway Group Standards 3
A4 Responsibilities 3
A5 Health and safety responsibilities 3
A6 Technical content 3
A7 Supply 3

Part B
B1 Purpose 4
B2 Application of this document 4
B3 Definitions 5
B4 Principle 7

Part C
C1 Administration of safe management of structures 8
C2 Listing and identification of structures 8
C3 Examination of structures 9
C4 Assessment of structures 15
C5 Evaluation of structural safety of structures 17
C6 Action following an evaluation 18
C7 Records 19
C8 Competency 19
C9 Structures owned by outside parties 20

References 21

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Date April 2004 Safe Management of Structures
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Part A
A1 Issue record
Issue Date Comments
One May 1997 Replaced Railway Group Standards
GC/RT5121 – Examination of Structures
and GC/RT5141 – Assessment of Structural
Capacity.
Two October 2000 Revised throughout. Requirements for
buildings and assessments clarified.
Responsibilities allocated to the duty holder.
Three April 2004 Asset management clauses from
GC/RT5123 incorporated. Various minor
amendments made.

Material changes have been marked by a vertical black line in the adjacent
margin.

This document will be updated when necessary by distribution of a complete

replacement.

A2 Implementation of
this document
The publication date of this document is 3 April 2004.

This document comes into force on 5 June 2004.

The dates by which compliance with the requirements of this document is to be

achieved are set out in Part B2. Where those dates are later than the date on
which this document comes into force, this is to give Railway Group members
additional time to plan and commence implementation so as to achieve full
compliance by the dates set out in Part B2.

This document supersedes the following Railway Group Standards, either in

whole or in part as indicated:

Railway Issue Title RGS sections Date(s) as of

Group No. superseded by which sections
Standard this document are superseded

GC/RT5100 2 Safe All 5 June 2004

Management
of Structures
GC/RT5123 1 Safe Asset Clause 6.1.1 5 June 2004
Management
– Coastal and Clause 6.2.1
Estuarial Clause 6.4
Defences

GC/RT5123, issue 1, is withdrawn with effect from 5 June 2004. Parts of

GC/RT5123 not superseded by this document are superseded by GC/RT5143,
issue 2, which is to be issued at the same time.

GC/RT5100, issue 2, is withdrawn with effect from 5 June 2004.

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A3 Scope of Railway
Group Standards
The overall scope of Railway Group Standards is set out in Annex F of the
Railway Group Standards Code, issue 1, January 2004. The specific scope of
this document is set out in Part B2.

A4 Responsibilities
Railway Group Standards are mandatory on all members of the Railway Group*
and apply to all relevant activities that fall into the scope of each individual’s
Railway Safety Case. If any of those activities are performed by a contractor, the
contractor’s obligation in respect of Railway Group Standards is determined by
the terms of the contract between the respective parties. Where a contractor is
a duty holder of a Railway Safety Case then Railway Group Standards apply
directly to the activities described in the Safety Case.

* The Railway Group comprises Network Rail Infrastructure Limited, Rail Safety
and Standards Board Limited, and the train and station operators who hold
railway safety cases for operation on or related to infrastructure controlled by
Network Rail Infrastructure Limited.

Network Rail Infrastructure Limited is also known as Network Rail.

Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited is also known as RSSB.

A5 Health and safety

responsibilities
Each Railway Group member is reminded of the need to consider its own
responsibilities to ensure health and safety at work and its own duties under
health and safety legislation. RSSB does not warrant that compliance with all or
any documents published by RSSB is sufficient in itself to ensure safe systems
of work or operation or to satisfy such responsibilities or duties.

A6 Content
The content of this document has been approved by:

Track and Structures Subject Committee on 29 January 2004.

Enquiries should be directed to RSSB – Telephone: 020 7904 7518 or e-mail

enquiries@rssb.co.uk.

A7 Supply
Controlled and uncontrolled copies of this document may be obtained from the
Industry Safety Liaison Department, Rail Safety and Standards Board,
Evergreen House, 160 Euston Road, London NW1 2DX or e-mail
enquiries@rssb.co.uk. Railway Group Standards can also be viewed at
www.rssb.co.uk.

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Part B
B1 Purpose
This document mandates the requirements for managing the structural integrity
of structures so that they do not present an unacceptable risk to safety as a
result of their condition, use or location.

B2 Application of this
document
B2.1 To whom the requirements apply
This document contains requirements that are applicable to duty holders of the
following categories of Railway Safety Case:

a) infrastructure controller

b) station operator.

At a station contractual arrangements (including a station lease) do not of

themselves relieve the duty holder of his obligation to comply with Railway Group
Standards that are relevant to the duty holder’s licensed activities. This
obligation is established by the duty holder’s licence and his Railway Safety
Case which has been submitted and accepted in accordance with the Railways
(Safety Case) Regulations 2000.

B2.2 Compliance requirements

The requirements of this document shall be complied with no later than 5 June
2004.

B2.2.1 Infrastructure
Specifically the contents of this document apply to all structures within the areas
of railway infrastructure indicated in the Railway Group Standards Code, issue 1,
January 2004.

B2.2.2 Stations
Specifically the contents of this document apply to all structures within the areas
of railway infrastructure indicated in the Railway Group Standards Code, issue 1,
January 2004.

B2.3 General compliance requirements

After the compliance date or the date by which compliance is achieved, if earlier,
Railway Group members shall maintain compliance with the requirements set
out in this Railway Group Standard. Where it is considered not reasonably
practicable to comply with the requirements, authorisation not to comply shall be
sought in accordance with the Railway Group Standards Code, issue 1, January
2004.

B2.4 Exclusions from the application of this document

This document does not cover all aspects of the safe management of structures.
Health and safety and emergency evacuation requirements are not covered.

B2.5 Related requirements in other documents

GC/RT5122 sets out the requirements for the management of the risks to the
operational railway from road vehicles or waterborne vessels striking bridges.

GC/RT5143 sets out the minimum requirements for assessing and managing the
risk to railway infrastructure from flooding, scour, wave and tidal action, and for
the action to be taken when flood warnings are received.

GC/RT5151 sets out requirements for the safe management of embankments,

cuttings and natural slopes.

GC/RT5152 sets out the minimum requirements for managing the risk from
mineral extraction and landfill operations.

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GI/RT7014 sets out the requirements for the design and maintenance of stations
to facilitate their safe use.

GI/RT7016 sets out the requirements for the design and maintenance of station
platforms for their safe interface with trains.

GC/RT5180 sets out the requirements for maintaining the structural integrity of
tunnels.

GC/RT5212 sets out the requirements for monitoring and maintaining

clearances. It also mandates requirements for new, altered and temporary
infrastructure relating to clearances; gauging conditions for passage of
exceptional loads; standard vehicle gauges; and data relating to gauging and
clearances, to be provided to Railway Group members and their suppliers.

GO/RT3411 identifies minimum actions necessary to identify and respond to

exceptional weather conditions as an input to safe rail operation.

B2.6 Supporting documents

This document is supported by RSSB Approved Code of Practice GC/RC5511,
issue 3, which sets out recommendations for the safe management of structures.

B3 Definitions
Assessment
The determination of the safe load-carrying capacity of a structure, taking into
account its physical condition, use and location. The term includes the use of
quantitative methods, unless otherwise justified, checks, inspections and the use
of historic data, where appropriate. Quantitative methods include:

a) carrying out calculations

b) carrying out documented and technically approved stress measurements

c) the use of valid design documentation.

Bridge
A structure of one or more spans greater than or equal to 1800 mm, whose
prime purpose is usually to carry traffic or services over an obstruction or gap.

Building
A permanent fixed roofed structure into which people can go and within which
goods may be stored or within which plant or equipment may be installed. The
term excludes train sheds and platform canopies. See also definitions for train
shed and platform canopy.

Coastal and estuarine infrastructure

Particular sections of works that include both coastal and estuarine protection
works and sea and estuarine defences.

Coastal protection works

A particular section of infrastructure which prevents erosion of coastal land and
encroachment by the sea and performs no flood defence role. Coastal
protection works exist seaward of the limits specified in the Fourth Schedule of
the Coast Protection Act 1949.

Culvert
A structure with a span or diameter greater than 450 mm and less than
1800 mm, whose prime purpose is usually, but not exclusively, to permit water or
services to pass under a railway or road. The term excludes effluent pipelines
passing under a railway or road.

Duty holder
The Railway Group member responsible for the safe management of a structure
under their Railway Safety Case.

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Estuarine defence
A particular section of infrastructure which protects the railway or low-lying areas
from flooding by estuarine waters and which falls inland of the Fourth Schedule
of the Coast Protection Act 1949.

Estuarine protection works

A particular section of infrastructure which prevents erosion of estuarine land
and encroachment by estuarine waters and performs no flood defence role.
Estuarine coastal protection works exist inland of the limits specified in the
Fourth Schedule of the Coast Protection Act 1949.

Evaluation
The appraisal of all relevant reports, information, assessments and
circumstances relating to a structure to establish whether further action is
required to ensure that it does not pose an unacceptable risk to safety as a
result of its condition, use or location.

Failure
The situation where a structure is no longer capable of performing the function
required of it.

Minor retaining wall

Any retaining wall that does not support vehicular loadings and that retains
material to either:

a) a height of 600 mm or less, or

b) a height of 1 m or less, provided it is less than 5 m long.

Outside party
Any person or organisation other than a Railway Group member. An outside
party also includes a Railway Group member acting outside the scope of its
Railway Safety Case.

Platform canopy
A station roof (including its supports) that does not span across operational
railway lines. See also definition for train shed.

Sea defence
A particular section of infrastructure which protects the railway or low-lying areas
from flooding from the sea and which falls seaward of the Fourth Schedule of the
Coast Protection Act 1949.

Significant
This term is used to describe anything that measurably changes the safety of a
structure.

Structure
Something built to support or retain a load. The term includes: bridges; viaducts;
tunnels; culverts; retaining walls (including minor retaining walls); coastal and
estuarine infrastructure; gantries, posts and stanchions carrying overhead line
equipment, lighting, signals etc; trainsheds; platform canopies; platforms;
buildings and water retaining structures. The term includes any permanent
access facilities provided.

For the purposes of this document the term excludes earthworks.

Train shed
A station roof (including its supports) that spans across operational railway lines.
See also definition for platform canopy.

Tunnel
A structure provided to allow a railway to pass under higher land and which has
been excavated without removing the surface of that land. The term includes

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any shafts, adits or portals. Other types of construction are also classified as
tunnels if the structure requires examination as a tunnel.

Viaduct
A bridge containing five spans or more.

B4 Principle
This document supports HMRI Railway Safety Principles and Guidance,
Principle 7 in that ‘…structures supporting the track should be capable of
carrying and transferring the forces exerted by the trains’ and Principle 8 in that
‘…structures above or adjacent to the railway should be capable of supporting
the loads imposed upon them and afford protection to the railway’.

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Part C
C1 Administration of
safe management of
structures
The duty holder shall have in place procedures that ensure for each structure:

a) its location and identity are known and recorded (see section C2)

b) examinations are carried out to identify any significant change in condition,

loading or environment that may indicate or cause deterioration
(see section C3)

c) assessments are carried out to establish the safe load-carrying capacity of

the structure, taking into account its physical condition, use and location
(see section C4)

d) evaluations are carried out to establish whether further action is required to

ensure that the structure does not pose an unacceptable risk to safety as a
result of its condition, use or location (see section C5)

e) a suitable course of action is taken following an evaluation of the structure

(see section C6)

f) records are available to substantiate these requirements (see section C7)

g) a competent person or organisation is appointed to manage the structural

integrity of the structure (see section C8)

h) significant changes in use are recorded

i) significant structural alterations are approved and recorded

j) the limits of the responsibilities between maintainers of the track and the
structure are defined where the structure supports track(s).

Where the structure is owned by an outside party, the requirements of

section C9 apply.

C2 Listing and
identification of
structures
C2.1 Listing of structures
C2.1.1 General requirements
The duty holder shall have procedures in place to:

a) list all structures in a register (but not necessarily all in a single register)
except as described below

b) ensure that the listing of structures is complete and maintained

c) ensure that each new structure is included in the register as soon as

construction work within the scope of this document begins.

The register shall clearly define the location, type of structure, owner, type of use
of the structure and, where appropriate, the start and finish of the structure.

It is permissible to omit minor retaining walls, as defined in section B3, from the
register.

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Temporary structures or significant temporary works attached to a structure shall

be considered for inclusion in the register, taking into account their use, the risk
of failure, and their expected life.

Where buried or hidden structures are known to exist, or there is evidence that
they are likely to exist, they shall be included in the register. Action shall be
taken to confirm whether the structure exists or not, to the extent determined by
the particular site circumstances and the potential risk that the buried or hidden
structure poses to the safety of train operations (for example as a result of
deterioration in the condition of the buried or hidden structure).

C2.1.2 Additional requirements for coastal and estuarine infrastructure

For coastal and estuarine infrastructure, the type and function of the
infrastructure (that is, coastal protection works, estuarine protection works, sea
defence or estuarine defence) shall be listed.

C2.2 Unique identity for structures

Each structure, which is required to have either a visual or a detailed
examination, shall have a unique identity. This shall be recorded in the register
and on any records relating to the structure.

C2.3 Identification of structures on site

Each structure shall be identifiable on site using a method that ensures that
there is no ambiguity between the register, the records of the structure and the
identification of the structure on site.

Bridges, viaducts and other structures about which members of the public and
outside parties are likely to report defects shall be provided with a marking
clearly visible to members of the public. The marking shall include the identity of
the structure to enable observed defects to be reported without doubt as to the
structure involved and to permit identification of the structure by those
responsible for its maintenance.

For complex structures, consideration shall be given to identification marking of

individual elements of the structure.

C3 Examination of
structures
C3.1 Principles of structures examination
C3.1.1 General principles
Unless otherwise excluded by this document, each structure shall be examined
to identify any significant change in condition, loading or environment that
indicates or causes deterioration.

The frequency and quality of examination shall be such that timely and
appropriate action can be taken to ensure the continuing safety of the structure.

The following examinations shall be undertaken to meet the above requirements:

a) detailed examinations, as set out in section C3.2, to identify the primary

information needed for the safe management of structures

b) visual examinations, as set out in section C3.3, to identify defects which may
have developed or worsened since the last examination, particularly since
the last detailed examination, where appropriate

c) any necessary additional examinations to suit particular circumstances, as

set out in section C3.5.

Additional information from observation of structures shall be received and

recorded, as set out in section C3.6.

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The duty holder shall ensure that all persons engaged in the examination
process are aware of the action to be taken when they perceive a defect or
situation that they believe is likely to endanger users or others.

C3.1.2 Particular principles for coastal and estuarine infrastructure

All examinations shall be carried out at low water to enable examination of the
maximum area of the coastal or estuarine defence, unless the prevailing site
conditions prevent this.

Where an examination at low water is prevented by the prevailing site conditions,

this shall be recorded and justified.

Where appropriate, consideration shall be given to arranging for an underwater

examination to be carried out of those sections that are permanently under water
or under water at the time of the examination.

C3.2 Detailed examination of structures

C3.2.1 Structures requiring detailed examination
The following structures shall receive detailed examinations at regular intervals:

a) bridges and viaducts

b) buildings

c) culverts whose primary method of providing support is other than by arching

action

d) tunnels

e) retaining walls (other than minor retaining walls)

f) coastal and estuarine infrastructure

g) structural parts of any other type of structure (except culverts) which are
under water in a water course, and the depth of water prevents a visual
examination

h) water retaining structures

i) structures which support buildings and span over operational railway lines
but excluding the supported buildings

j) train sheds

k) platform canopies

l) signal gantries.

The duty holder shall identify any other structures requiring a detailed
examination.

C3.2.2 Normal interval between detailed examinations

The normal interval between detailed examinations of a structure, listed in clause
C3.2.1, shall be commensurate with its use, its type, its condition and
deterioration, its accessibility and the effectiveness of the visual examinations
required by section C3.3.

The normal intervals between detailed examinations of structures shall not be

greater than those specified in column A of Table 1, unless a risk assessment
has been carried out. Where an increased interval between detailed
examinations has been justified by a risk assessment it shall not exceed twice
the normal interval specified in column A of Table 1.

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A B

Normal interval Maximum permitted

between detailed tolerance on
Type of structure examinations intervals between
detailed
examinations
Tunnels (excluding shafts)
and coastal and estuarine 12 months 3 months
infrastructure
Structural parts of
structures (except
culverts) which are under
water in a water course, 3 years 6 months
and where the depth of
water prevents a visual
examination
Type of structures
identified in clause C3.2.1
6 years 6 months
except as otherwise
specified in this table

Table 1 Intervals between detailed examinations

For other structures identified by the duty holder as requiring a detailed
examination, the interval between detailed examinations shall be determined
according to the circumstances, and the justification for the interval documented.

C3.2.3 Maximum permitted tolerance on intervals between detailed

examinations
The interval between detailed examinations, whether it is based on the normal
interval set out in column A of Table 1, or based on an increased interval justified
by a risk assessment, shall not be extended beyond the determined interval plus
the tolerance set out in column B of Table 1.

The permitted tolerance, set out in column B of Table 1, shall not be used to
increase the interval between detailed examinations on a regular basis.

C3.2.4 Risk assessment to increase intervals between detailed

examinations
Where a risk assessment is required to determine an increased interval between
detailed examinations, it shall take into account:

a) the age of the structure

b) the current condition and predicted rate of deterioration of the structure

c) the presence of any materials likely to be subject to rapid failure

d) the presence of fatigue-prone details or materials

e) the likelihood of any current restrictions in its use being exceeded

f) the results of any monitoring or measurements that have been carried out

g) known or predicted external influences which may cause rapid deterioration

or failure

h) the likelihood of significant defects not being detected during a visual

examination

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i) the results of an evaluation of structural safety

j) the quality and extent of examinations carried out

k) the likely mode and consequences of failure

l) the likelihood of any significant changes in use of the structure or in the

traffic passing beneath the structure.

The risk assessment shall be recorded and records retained until superseded by
a subsequent review of the detailed examination interval.

The validity of the risk assessment shall be confirmed after each detailed
examination and when any other relevant changes become apparent.

C3.2.5 Structures subject to rapid changes in condition or circumstances

Where it is known, or suspected, that a structure is subject to a rapid change in
condition or circumstances, the interval between detailed examinations shall be
reduced to ensure that any significant change in condition or circumstances can
be identified and assessed to maintain an adequate level of safety.

C3.2.6 Quality and content of detailed examinations

Except for hidden, obscured or buried parts of structures, the detailed
examination shall be of sufficient quality to produce a record that includes the
condition of all parts of the structure; the uses to which it is being put;
recommendations for remedial action and any other relevant facts, so that:

a) the extent of any change or deterioration since the last examination can be
established

b) the scope and urgency of any action needed before the next examination
can be ascertained

c) any changes required to the intervals between examinations can be

identified

d) the need for any further special investigation or other action can be
determined.

The examination shall generally be carried out from a position where the
examiner is within touching distance of the part being examined unless otherwise
justified (for example, by using closed circuit television equipment for the
examination of tenanted arches that are clad or for underwater examinations).

Where a load-bearing part, whose condition is critical in establishing the

continuing safety of the structure, is hidden or obscured, the examination shall
be sufficient to enable its condition to be verified. The scope of examination,
and the extent to which the condition of safety-critical load-bearing parts could
be verified, shall be recorded.

For partially buried parts such as bridge abutments, and for completely buried
parts such as foundations, the detailed examination shall be sufficient to identify
whether such parts are likely to be suffering distress and whether further
investigation (for example, monitoring or additional examination) is required.

The likelihood of damage to the structure as a result of exposing the structure

shall be taken into account in deciding whether or not to expose a hidden or
obscured part.

Where hidden, obscured or buried parts are exposed, consideration shall be

given to obtaining dimensions of the part of the structure for assessment
purposes.

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Where fire protection or other protection is removed to expose a structural

element for examination, the protection shall be reinstated following the
examination.

For structures subject to traffic loads, the behaviour of the structure under
normal traffic shall be observed and recorded, unless otherwise justified because
of the particular site circumstances.

C3.2.7 Reports of detailed examinations

After every detailed examination a formal report shall be produced which:

a) confirms that all accessible parts of the structure have been examined

b) records the extent and severity of any defects found

c) identifies the extent and severity of any changes in condition, use or

environment since the last examination

d) draws attention to any observed factors which may affect the safety of the
structure

e) identifies all hidden, obscured or buried parts that have not been examined

f) identifies whether further investigation (such as monitoring or additional

examination) is recommended

g) for structures supporting traffic loads, identifies whether the structure was
observed under traffic load and, if not, why it was not reasonably practicable
to do so.

For buildings, the report shall also include a recommended prioritised

programme of planned maintenance, repair and renewal (if such work is
required) until the next detailed examination.

C3.3 Visual examination of structures

C3.3.1 Structures requiring visual examinations
All structures shall be visually examined at regular intervals. It is permissible to
exempt buildings and minor retaining walls from regular visual examinations.

C3.3.2 Interval between visual examinations

The interval between visual examinations of each structure shall be
commensurate with the following:

a) its deterioration

b) its vulnerability to accidental or deliberate damage or misuse

c) its history of damage or misuse.

The normal interval between visual examinations of structures shall not,

however, be greater than 12 months, with a maximum permitted tolerance to the
normal interval of three months.

The permitted tolerance to the normal interval shall not be used to increase the
normal interval on a regular basis.

When a detailed examination coincides with a visual examination, it is not

necessary to undertake a separate visual examination.

C3.3.3 Quality and content of visual examinations

The examination shall be of sufficient quality to detect and report any significant
visible changes or evidence of impending changes since the last visual and
detailed examinations, and in particular:

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a) significant cracks

b) any signs of loose, displaced or fallen material

c) significant vandalism or accidental damage

d) signs of significant subsidence or ground movement

e) flooding or evidence of flooding

f) changes in condition or in the deterioration of known defects

g) changes in the nature or extent of use

h) changes in the environment that could lead to rapid deterioration or affect

safety

i) significant changes in the readings of any monitoring systems currently

being used.

C3.3.4 Reports of visual examinations

In the report of a visual examination, written evidence shall be produced which:

a) confirms that the examination has been completed

b) lists any significant defects or changes that have occurred or worsened

since the last visual and/or detailed examinations

c) identifies whether any changes to the intervals between examinations are

required

d) identifies whether there is a need for further special investigation or other

action.

C3.4 Annual review of planned maintenance, repair and renewal

programme for buildings
In place of an annual visual examination, the duty holder shall have procedures
in place to ensure that the programme of planned maintenance, repair and
renewal for each building, identified as a result of the detailed examination, is
reviewed annually. The duty holder shall ensure that appropriate action is taken
to overcome any shortfalls or take into account changes to the planned
programme, whether or not the work was originally identified in the detailed
examination report.

C3.5 Additional examination

C3.5.1 Structures requiring additional examinations
An additional examination shall be carried out in the following circumstances:

a) where the detailed examination, together with the assessment, where

available, provides insufficient information to evaluate the safety of the
structure

b) after flooding, scour, wave action, tidal action, gales or earthquakes which
could have affected the structure.

c) following significant accidental or deliberate damage to a structure or parts

of a structure.

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Consideration shall also be given to carrying out an additional examination

when:

d) a report is received that indicates that the safety of the structure has been
compromised (for example, as a result of an exceptional event)

e) understanding of the safety of the structure is altered as a result of new

technical knowledge.

C3.5.2 Content and reports of additional examinations

The extent, method and purpose of additional examinations and the method of
reporting shall be determined according to the circumstances, and the reasons
documented.

C3.6 Receiving and recording of observations of structures

The duty holder shall have procedures in place to receive and record reports of:

a) observations of details of the condition of structures which might affect the

safety of persons on or about the structure

b) observed changes in the condition of structures, including loose, displaced

or fallen material, new defects or changes to existing defects

c) observations of other situations which might affect the safety of train

operations and the integrity of structures.

The duty holder shall have procedures in place to investigate reported changes
in the condition or situations to establish whether the reported change in the
condition or situation is significant.

GC/RT5021 sets out requirements for track inspections, including a requirement

that, to the extent that it is reasonable to do so in the course of track inspections,
faults and defects in bridges, viaducts, tunnels and other lineside structures are
to be identified, recorded and reported.

C4 Assessment of
structures
C4.1 Structures requiring assessment
C4.1.1 Specific types of structures requiring assessment
An assessment shall be carried out on the following structures:

a) bridges and viaducts

b) culverts whose primary method of providing support is other than by

arching action

c) structures which both support buildings and span across operational

railway lines but excluding the supported buildings

d) train sheds

e) other types of construction classified as tunnels by the duty holder for the
purposes of examination, but which support traffic loads.

C4.1.2 Assessment of platform canopies

An assessment on platform canopies shall also be carried out unless otherwise
justified by appropriate criteria, including the following:

a) knowledge of its condition, deterioration, repairs and problems exist

b) there are no significant active defects

c) the aerodynamic effects of passing trains are not severe and there are no
plans for the speed of passing trains to increase significantly

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d) there have been no significant increases in the loading on the canopy since
it was built.

All such justifications shall be documented.

C4.1.3 Assessment of other structures

For other structures, an assessment shall be carried out where information, in
addition to that obtained from the examination process, is required by the duty
holder to confirm the safe load capacity of the structure.

C4.2 Reviewing validity of assessments

A procedure shall be in place for reviewing the validity of assessments.

The procedure shall take into account the factors identified in section C4.3,
together with:

a) the results of the most recent assessment

b) the interval since the most recent assessment

C4.3 Action plan for carrying out initial assessments

Where no previous assessment exists, an action plan shall be created for
prioritising, setting timescales and carrying out the initial assessments. The
prioritisation of assessments shall take into account:

a) the type and frequency of the loading to which the structure is subjected

b) the type of structure

c) the condition and deterioration of the structure

d) the vulnerability of the structure to accidental damage

e) any proposals for significant changes in the type and frequency of loading to
which the structure will be subjected

f) any strengthening or repairs

g) the consequence of failure of the structure.

C4.4 Method of assessments

C4.4.1 Assessments requiring the use of quantitative methods
Assessments using quantitative methods shall be carried out for:

a) the superstructures of all viaducts and multispan bridges

b) the superstructures of all single span bridges, except single span bridges
with an effective span of less than 2 m, whose primary method of providing
support is by arching action

c) culverts whose primary method of providing support is other than by arching

action

d) structures which support buildings and span across operational railway lines
but excluding the supported buildings

e) train sheds.

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C4.4.2 Assessments of substructures requiring the use of quantitative

methods
Assessments using quantitative methods shall be carried out for the
substructures of all bridges and viaducts, and for the substructures of culverts
whose primary method of providing support is other than by arching action,
where:

a) the substructure is showing signs of distress to the extent that the structural
integrity of the substructure cannot be established by examination alone

b) significant changes to the loading are proposed (for example, as a result of

higher speeds, heavier traffic, heavier superstructure following
reconstruction)

c) there is a significant weakening to the support of the substructure (for

example, as a result of road lowering beneath a bridge, scour).

C4.4.3 Assessments using qualitative methods

For other structures or parts of structures (for example, the substructures of
viaducts and bridges to which clause C4.4.2 does not apply), whether or not the
types are specifically identified in clauses C4.1.1 or C4.1.2, it is permitted for
qualitative methods to be used for all or part of the assessment as determined by
the duty holder.

C4.5 Technical approval of assessments

Appropriate technical approval procedures for the assessment and checking
thereof shall be in place for all assessments.

Where structures are of complex or unusual form and the methods of analysis
contained in current British, European or industry standards cannot be used or
are inappropriate, the validity of the method of assessment shall be confirmed by
a competent person within an organisation that is independent of the
organisation carrying out the assessment.

C5 Evaluation of
structural safety of
structures
C5.1 Structures requiring evaluation of structural safety
The structural safety of each structure other than minor retaining walls shall be
evaluated.

C5.2 When evaluations of structural safety are required

The evaluation of the structural safety of a structure shall be carried out:

a) after a report is received of a significant defect or a situation that is likely to

affect the safety of train operations or the safety of a building

b) after a visual, detailed or additional examination report is received

c) after an assessment

d) when there is a significant change in condition

e) after significant accidental or deliberate damage

f) when a significant change in the nature or extent of use or loading is

apparent

g) before a significant change of use or loading is introduced

h) before significant structural repairs or alterations are carried out

i) when new knowledge indicates safety may be affected

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j) when a significant change in environment occurs

k) where existing records are insufficient to confirm its continuing safety.

C5.3 Factors to be considered in the evaluation of structural safety

For all structures the nature and extent of the evaluation required shall be
determined, taking into account the risk from failure of the structure.

The evaluation shall consider the effects of the loads likely to be imposed upon
the structure and, taking into account the available data, confirm or otherwise its
structural safety as a result of the condition, use or location of the structure.

The evaluation of a structure shall also take into account, where applicable:

a) its condition as revealed by examination

b) its form and dimensions

c) the strength and fatigue characteristics of the materials used

d) the likely mode of failure

e) the maximum permissible loading, including dynamic effects

f) the likelihood of any imposed restriction on its use being exceeded

g) the likelihood of deliberate damage occurring to the structure from

vandalism

h) the risk from damage occurring due to flooding, scour or other

environmental effect (see also GC/RT5143)

i) the risk from and/or to derailed trains at bridges spanning over the
operational railway lines

j) the risk from and/or to derailed trains at bridges supporting operational

railway lines, including the need for guard rails or other methods of
derailment containment on viaducts and other long span bridges

k) the risk from road vehicles or waterborne vessels striking structures

(including the risk of debris falling onto the railway as a result of the strike)

l) the aerodynamic effects from passing trains

m) the results of the most recent assessment, where available.

The amount of information required shall take into account the degree of
uncertainty about construction details and/or material strengths.

Particular attention shall be given to establishing the level of protection provided

by the coastal or estuarine defence.

C6 Action following an
evaluation
The duty holder shall have procedures in place to:

a) enable a suitable course of action to be determined following an evaluation

of the structure

b) carry out the course of action that has been determined

c) check that such action has been carried out fully and to the required
standard of workmanship

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d) report back on the results of any action taken.

In all cases, suitable action shall be taken before the risk to the safety of train
operations or the integrity of the structure becomes compromised.

C7 Records
Where applicable, the following records for each structure shall be retained for
as long as the structure exists:

a) as-built drawings of all new structures and any subsequent repairs to them

b) as-built drawings of existing structures and any subsequent repairs to them

where such drawings are known to exist

c) examination reports and other records relating to structural condition

d) the documented results of any assessments or equivalent

e) the unique identity of the structure

f) the safe load capacity of the structure

g) the written or otherwise documented results of any evaluation of the

structure

h) the details and written or otherwise documented results of any risk

assessment used to determine the scope of examinations or assessments

i) details of any repairs or other action specified, with reasons for requiring
such action, and confirmation or otherwise that the actions have been
satisfactorily completed.

The requirements for managing safety related records of elements of the

infrastructure are set out in GI/RT7001.

Details of the skill, knowledge and experience of all persons employed in the
management of structures, and records of their appointment or approval, shall
be retained for the period of validity of any work they have carried out.

C8 Competency
The duty holder shall have procedures in place that ensure that all persons or
organisations with responsibilities for managing structures:

a) have the necessary skill, knowledge, professional qualifications and

experience to carry out those responsibilities commensurate with the type
and complexity of the structures to be managed

b) are fully aware and understand the extent of their responsibilities

c) have sufficient resources to undertake their responsibilities

d) understand to an appropriate level the mechanisms of structural failure and

deterioration and can judge when urgent or immediate action is necessary
for safety reasons.

Additional requirements for competence management for safety-critical work are

given in GO/RT3260.

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C9 Structures owned by
outside parties
For each structure owned by an outside party the location, identity and, where it
can be established, the owner of the structure shall be recorded and included in
a register of structures held by the duty holder.

For such structures, procedures shall be in place to determine whether the

structure owner is competent to manage the safety of the structure.

Where the duty holder is not satisfied that the structure is being managed safely,
the structure shall be subjected to an external visual examination so far as is
lawful and the owner advised of any significant defects observed.

Appropriate action shall be taken to control any risk to the safety of train
operations that is perceived or advised as a result of the presence or condition of
any such structure.

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References
Railway Group Standards and Other Railway Group Documents
The Railway Group Standards Code, issue 1, January 2004.
GC/RT5021 Track System Requirements
GC/RT5122 Bridge Strikes from Road Vehicles or Waterborne Vessels
GC/RT5143 Scour and Flooding, including Wave and Tidal Action – Managing the Risk
GC/RT5151 Safe Asset Management - Embankments and Cuttings
GC/RT5152 Mineral Extraction and Landfill – Managing the Risk
GC/RT5180 Safe Asset Management of Infrastructure – Tunnels
GC/RT5212 Requirements for Defining and Maintaining Clearances
GI/RT7001 Safety Related Records of Elements of the Infrastructure
GI/RT7014 Infrastructure Requirements at Stations
GI/RT7016 Interface between Station Platforms, Track and Trains
GO/RT3260 Competence Management for Safety Critical Work
GO/RT3411 Exceptional Weather Conditions - Managing the Risks

The Catalogue of Railway Group Standards and the Railway Group Standards
CD-ROM give the current issue number and status of documents published by
RSSB. This information is also available from www.rssb.co.uk.

Other References
Coast Protection Act 1949
HMRI Railway Safety Principles and Guidance

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