Course Aim:
The Possession Support course aims to provide delegates with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to perform Possession Support duties effectively on Network Rail infrastructure. This training enables delegates to confidently support the Person in Charge of Possession (PICOP) and Engineering Supervisor (ES) in setting up, maintaining, and handing back railway possessions, ensuring safety and operational compliance.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, delegates will be able to:

• Clearly define and understand the role and responsibilities of Possession Support.

• Identify required actions before setting up a possession, including site familiarisation, determining distance, and essential pre-site activities.

• Competently manage the processes involved in setting up and handing back possessions under instruction from a PICOP or ES.

• Demonstrate effective safety-critical communication skills required during possession management.

• Identify and utilise the appropriate equipment necessary for safely carrying out Possession Support duties.

• Understand and apply Network Rail's Lifesaving Rules and safety leadership principles to their role.

• Recognise situations requiring sub-standard protection and take appropriate actions as defined by Network Rail standards.
  

Assessment Criteria:

Delegate competency is assessed through:

• Knowledge Assessment:

  A formal written examination consisting of multiple questions assessing theoretical understanding of possession support roles, responsibilities, and procedures. Delegates must achieve a minimum required score to pass.
  

• Practical Assessment:

  A practical evaluation requiring delegates to demonstrate hands-on competence in possession support duties within a simulated or controlled railway environment. This includes scenarios involving placing and removing protection equipment, communication exercises, and handling operational changes.

Course Delivery:
This comprehensive one-day course incorporates classroom sessions using visual aids and interactive discussions, supported by practical trackside exercises. Training occurs in a safe and realistic environment, such as sidings, slow lines, or simulated facilities, allowing delegates to gain practical experience relevant to actual operational conditions.