Track Movement Authority (TMA) Procedures

Track Movement Authority (TMA) Procedures

• A Track Movement Authority (TMA) is a verbal instruction for a specific section of track, used when ERTMS (European Rail Traffic Management System) is not functioning properly or not available.
• TMAs are used for trains experiencing extensive signalling equipment failures, inoperable ERTMS, and those needing to move to a suitable point to complete mission start-up or transition to full supervision
• TMAs are granted for a single movement in one direction only. A new TMA is required for a return movement. The TMA can be extended while the train is in motion
• Before granting a TMA, the Train Controller confirms the Driver/Pilot has the current Level Crossing List, Weekly Operating Notices (WON), and relevant E-Notices. If not, the controller provides the necessary details, including any restrictions.
• All TMA forms must be retained for auditing
• If communication fails during TMA grant, TMA is considered ungranted until communication is restored

Granting a TMA

• Protection Arrangements: Train Controller confirms the train is stationary and agrees on Marker Board limits with the Driver, documented on the TMA form.

• Section Protection: All line entries/exits must be protected by Marker Boards with signaling inhibits.

• Section Clearance: The section immediately beyond the departure Marker Board must be clear of trains/equipment, the axle counter must be functioning correctly, no blockages, and only a possession is permitted if it is for an engineering train. Turnouts must be secured to prevent conflicts and have inhibits applied if possible.

• Blocking the Line: After confirmation that the track section is clear, turnouts are positioned, route cards utilized where available, 'left/right' indications confirmed, and point block inhibits put in place; these are then checked by a competent person

• Incorrect Route Indication: If 'left/right' indications are not obtained, follow Module OPS6 procedures to secure the turnout correctly. The Driver must be informed which turnouts lack detection, and the Machine Operator must pass these at a maximum of 25 km/h, verifying correct turnout positioning before proceeding.

• Confirmation from Other Controllers: If other Train Controllers manage protection Marker Boards or turnouts, confirmation is required that routes are cancelled and turnouts are in the correct positions before the TMA is issued. If acting as a controller at a different workstation, any routes to protecting marker boards are cancelled and inhibits are applied; details are recorded in the Train Controller Log Book.

• Issuing the TMA: Once all routes are cancelled, inhibits applied, the Train Controller provides the Driver/Pilot with the TMA boundaries (Marker Board to Marker Board), level crossing details, end Marker Board location, and any speed restrictions; the Driver/Pilot confirms the details and records them. No Written Order is necessary for passing marker boards within the TMA.

Driver Duties

• Stationary Train: Train must be stationary before a TMA is granted.
• Understanding the TMA: The Driver must understand the start and end Marker Boards, the route setting (stations, sidings), and the end Marker Board location.
• Waiting for Authority: The Driver waits for the Train Controller to issue the TMA authority number.
• Speed Restrictions: Maximum speed is contingent on Permanent Restrictions (e.g., turnouts, platforms), Temporary/Emergency restrictions mentioned on the TMA form, location of temporary level crossings, and maintaining visibility to stop the train safely. Freight: 60 km/h. Passenger/Empty Coaching Stock: 160 km/h (Passenger train/Empty hauled by locomotive: 100 km/h)
• Equipment Isolation: Before start, on-board ETCS/ERTMS must be isolated.
• Adhering to Restrictions: Driver must obey all speed restrictions during the movement. The Train Controller outlines any speed restrictions if the driver does not have the latest WON.
• Level Crossings: Prepared to stop at level crossings when clearance cannot be confirmed.
• Driver Change: If a Driver changes during the TMA, the new Driver must advise the Train Controller, and the change is recorded on the TMA form

TMA Shortening/Extension

• Shortening: To shorten a rear TMA, check the HIS (Train Controller's Display System) for clear axle counters; record partial fulfillment with the section fulfilled and time/date on the TMA form. Confirmation that the train has passed clear is required if the HIS shows occupied/disturbed sections or reveals an issue with the axle count or the display.
• Extension: If an extension is needed: The Train Controller checks the next section for sufficient clearance; provides updated limits to the Driver; and records the details on the TMA form.

TMA Withdrawal

• Reaching the Exit Marker Board: The Driver contacts the Train Controller when reaching the end Marker Board.
• Transitioning to Full Supervision: If the train can transition to Level 2 Full Supervision, the Controller ensures the route is correctly set, authorizes ETCS/ERTMS reset, and the Marker Board crossing; This does not require a written order. The Driver completes ETCS/ERTMS reset/Start of Mission procedures and passes marker boards only when authorized.
• Failure to Transition: If the train cannot transition, the Train Controller extends the TMA or issues a new one before authorizing the Marker Board crossing; the Driver confirms clearance and notifies the controller, allowing the first TMA to be cancelled.

This quiz covers the essential procedures regarding Track Movement Authority (TMA), especially when the ERTMS is non-functional. Understand the process of granting TMAs, the requirements for the Train Controller, and the importance of retaining TMA forms for auditing purposes. Test your knowledge on the operational protocols regarding TMAs.