Industry glossary
Terms you will meet in the documents, systems and scenarios.
Access authority
The formal authority issued by a network controller to an access recipient that defines the apparatus isolated and earthed on which work may proceed.
Access recipient
The authorised worker who holds an access authority and is responsible for the safety of everyone working under it.
Safe approach distance
The minimum distance a worker, tool or plant must keep from live apparatus of a given voltage unless authorised and equipped for live work.
Switching program
The written, checked sequence of operations used to isolate, prove, earth and restore network apparatus, directed step by step by a network controller.
Proving de-energised
Using a tested voltage detector, proven before and after use, to confirm that apparatus is not live before earths are applied.
Working earth
A portable earth applied at the work site, in addition to the program earths, to protect workers from induced or accidental energisation.
Vicinity authority
An authority for work near live apparatus where safe approach distances are maintained and no work is done on the apparatus.
Possession
A period when a section of railway is closed to trains and handed to maintenance crews under track protection.
Residual strength
The calculated remaining strength of a wood pole based on the sound wood measured at inspection, used to decide whether the pole is serviceable.
Thermovision survey
An infrared camera survey of loaded connections and plant to find hot spots that indicate loose or deteriorating joints.