Railtrack's review raises retrofit issues

Railtrack is continuing to update its requirement for on-track plant with a new version of RIS-1530-PLT due to be published shortly, which could cause headaches for plant owners needing to re-certify their machines to the latest standard every seven years.

Key changes in the document, which is due to take effect next April, include the need for pneumatic brake coupling on any machine that can tow or propel trailers on rails. Most road rail excavators have hydraulic braking systems.

According to Bob Stalley who handles technical sales for road rail conversion specialist Rexquote, only Terex and Liebherr currently offer pneumatic braking system on wheeled excavators and nobody offers it on tracked machines. He said retrofitting an air system was not a viable option in either case.

Stalley said plant owners could get their existing units re-certified ahead of the new standard, giving them the potential of another seven years' use. Alternatively, the trailer coupling could be removed or otherwise disabled to circumvent the requirement.

However, Network Rail is reserving the right to change the current permit that allows the use of hydraulic brakes before its planned expiry date at the end of 2013. Other changes include the need for a data logging system on machines used for lifting and the use of quick couplers that are rated on their jaws for attachments that lift via the jaws.

It also wants MEWPs working beneath live overhead cables to be lockable in the stowed position, an interlock to limit travel speed when the basket is not stowed and control protection to prevent uncontrolled movements.