ARTC Network Train Communications Compliance
General
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Prior to entering the ARTC Network, Rail Traffic Crews must contact the Network Controller to confirm that their NTCS ICE is functioning correctly, that their Train number is registered and that voice communications can be established with the Network Controller.
Contact with the Network Controller must be established via the mandatory ICE system for all requests to enter the ARTC network; this includes Rail Traffic requesting to shunt on the ARTC network.
This process of contacting the Network Controller prior to entering the network is often referred to as "Logging on" and confirms that required mandatory communications are in place prior to entering the ARTC Network.
While ICE units are capable of self-testing functions and the ICE system also allows operators to enter train numbers via the HMI, these functions do not replace the requirement to contact the Network Controller and confirm that the required communications are in place.
ICE equipped trains which enter the ARTC NSW Network after "logging on" in an adjacent network area will have the train registration automatically transferred to the ARTC Network Controllers VCS.
In the event that registration fails during a journey or the ICE unit is known to have problems, Network Controllers & Rail Traffic Crews must act in accordance with applicable Network Rules and Procedures for managing a communication failure.
Trains that cannot be registered on the ICE HMI will not be permitted to commence a new journey on the ARTC network.
Completion of the "log on" procedure with the Network Controller from the leading cab is required to ensure compliance with Rail Safety Act and confirm that the required communications between Rail Traffic Crews and Network Controllers is functioning correctly.
Only the lead and manned ICE HMI on a train should be powered on.
Note: ARTC is not turning off the Train Control UHF radio network in the Kalgoorlie area and will allow Aurizon locomotives (Q & L Class) which operate on Perth to Parkeston line, to continue to use the existing Train Control UHF radio for the 5 KM (approximately) of ARTC track, until the Locomotives are fitted with a suitable NTCS ICE unit.
AUTHORISED BY: OPS Support Manager, Interstate Network.
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