Improved efficiency and accuracy by elimination of manual assessments.
Rhomberg Sersa Ireland has introduced a system to manage line knowledge as proof of driver competence.
As the only system of its kind on the market, the Automated Archived Route Knowledge System (AARK) digitally records which lines drivers have travelled along and thus provides evidence that they are competent on these lines on the basis of this experience. AARK replaces a hitherto paper-based system.
According to Andy McKay, Training and Competence Manager at Rhomberg Sersa Ireland, infrastructure companies and their drivers benefit from the electronic route portfolio as the system supplies instantaneous information.
The app-based system simply asks two questions at the start of a shift. The first question is: “What do you do in the train?”, and offers options such as “train driver”, “guard”, “service provider” etc. The second question asks what kind of train is being driven.
To avoid distractions, train drivers switch their mobiles to flight mode so that no calls or messages can be received, but the devices are still able to obtain GPS information. This location information is recorded and saved. Then the same route must be travelled at least once each year for the relevant proof of competence to be maintained. If the year is coming to an end, the system sends a warning and thus ensures that all engine drivers are up to date at all times.
Digitalisation of route knowledge is just one example of the continuous development of innovations within RSRG. They all serve to improve safety, accelerate progress and maximize resource efficiency.
