PTS PTS - Personal Track Safety Safety Critical Communications 2

Question 1

What is a 'three-part communication' and why is it used for safety-critical messages on the railway?

Accepted Answer

A protocol where the sender states the message, the receiver reads it back, and the sender confirms it is correct — ensuring the message is accurately received

Answer

A communication system using three radio channels simultaneously

Answer

A rule requiring all safety messages to be given three times

Answer

A format for writing safety documentation with three sections

Question 2

What should a COSS do if they are uncertain that a verbal message from the signaller has been fully understood?

Accepted Answer

Request the signaller to repeat the message and use three-part communication to confirm accuracy

Answer

Assume the message is correct and proceed with work

Answer

Write the message down and have the signaller sign the record

Answer

Contact a colleague to relay the message a second time

Question 3

What is the purpose of using standard railway terminology in safety-critical communications?

Accepted Answer

Standard terminology ensures unambiguous communication by using precise, universally understood terms that reduce the risk of misinterpretation

Answer

It is a formality to demonstrate professional competence

Answer

It helps maintain the professional image of the railway industry

Answer

Standard terms are required only in written communications, not verbal

Question 4

When is radio communication preferred over mobile phone for safety-critical messages on Network Rail infrastructure?

Accepted Answer

Network Rail Integrated Electronic Control Centre (IECC) radios or GSM-R are preferred as they provide direct, reliable communication with signallers in real time without network congestion issues

Answer

Mobile phones are always preferred as they are more reliable

Answer

Radio is only used in tunnels where mobile signals are absent

Answer

The choice between radio and mobile is left to the COSS's personal preference

Question 5

What action must be taken if a COSS's radio fails during an active line blockage?

Accepted Answer

Suspend all work within the safe working limits immediately, ensure workers are in a position of safety, and attempt to re-establish communication — work may not resume until communication with the signaller is restored

Answer

Continue work using mobile phone as backup without informing the signaller

Answer

Carry on working and log the radio failure for maintenance to investigate later

Answer

Ask the nearest train driver to relay messages to the signaller

Question 6

What is the correct response of a COSS when the signaller says 'your line blockage is no longer in place'?

Accepted Answer

Immediately withdraw all workers to a position of safety and confirm they are clear before acknowledging to the signaller

Answer

Acknowledge and continue working for up to 5 minutes to complete the current task

Answer

Ask the signaller to reinstate the blockage before responding

Answer

Cancel work only if a train is visible