As a regulatory body, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has the authority to oversee and enforce the health and safety laws related to rail transport. The ORR's main focus is the Health and Safety and Work etc. Act 1974, which provides guidelines on maintaining a safe working environment for all employees in the rail sector.
One of the critical areas that the ORR focuses on when it comes to health and safety in rail transport is guarding against the risk of fall from height. This is particularly relevant in regard to the installation and maintenance of gate rails, as they are typically installed at height. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 gives specific instructions on how these types of activities should be carried out.
To ensure that all activities involving gate rails are conducted safely, the ORR has put in place specific guidelines. These guidelines require that any person who will be involved in the installation or maintenance of gate rails must receive the necessary training to ensure that they understand the risks associated with this activity. Additionally, anyone working at height must be provided with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Another area of concern for the ORR is workplace transport and the risk of accidents occurring within the rail station. The organization has implemented guidelines for the safe use of workplace vehicles, such as fork-lift trucks and other industrial vehicles, to prevent accidents.
Finally, the ORR is responsible for ensuring that rail companies are complying with the law concerning risks associated with asbestos exposure. While asbestos is no longer used in the rail system, old buildings and equipment may still contain the hazardous material. The ORR oversees compliance in this area to reduce the risk of exposure to asbestos for employees and the public.
In conclusion, the ORR plays a vital role in enforcing health and safety laws in the rail industry. The guidelines put in place by the organization are designed to ensure that all activities involving gate rails and other activities associated with rail transport are performed safely. Further, the ORR plays a crucial role in protecting the public against harm caused directly or indirectly by the rail sector. Therefore, it is important for rail companies and their employees to be aware of these guidelines and to work together to maintain a safe and healthy workplace.