ABSTRACT
The contribution of ergonomics to information interfaces, trackside signals and signage, job and team design, communications and processes, will improve performance of all staff involved in the operation of the network, which in turn will improve system reliability as well as safety. The inclusion of ergonomists at programme level, as well as within delivery units within major projects, is increasingly accepted in ensuring effective and efficient consideration of system operability, performance and safety. The Network Rail Ergonomics Group has viewed ergonomics in maintenance in terms of very broad functions or stages. The first release of the ergonomics policy, part of the asset engineering suite of policies alongside track, structures, electrification and plant, signalling and telecommunications, was in September 2002. More recently the Ergonomics Group have been supporting the West Coast Route Modernisation Safety Group in their investigations into incidents which have occurred during possessions. The Ergonomics Group is well positioned and is positively contributing solutions to the many engineering challenges.
