As part of the construction site logistics at the Holligen and Weissenbühl departure points, the BLS service vehicles with the train control system are always located at the end of the train. This means that the train drivers do not have a direct view of the signals and track and the driving information must be transmitted by an accompanying person. According to the Train Operating Regulations (FDV), indirect driving of trains is only permitted with the authorisation of the infrastructure manager (IM) or in the event of a fault. The aim of this project is to obtain a justified exemption authorisation. Enotrac’s comprehensive risk analysis forms a central component of the exemption authorisation.
About the project
The area around Fischermätteli, Weissenbühl and Weyermannshaus is a central hub for railway operations on the SBB and BLS network. The combination of high traffic density, limited track capacity and numerous level crossings, signals and points leads to challenging operational conditions, especially during peak hours.
During the construction work, service vehicles are deployed via the Holligen or Weissenbühl logistics centres. These are located at the end of the train with their train control system, which means that the trains have to be guided indirectly. Bypassing this route would cause considerable additional time expenditure of 40 to 60 minutes. This is an effort that can hardly be realised due to the narrow timetable routes in this heavily frequented section.
Indirect train driving is required if the leading vehicle is at the rear end of the train and the train drivers therefore have no direct view of signals or the carriageway. In this case, the necessary driving information is transmitted by an attendant at the head of the train.
Against this background, Enotrac was commissioned by BLS to carry out a comprehensive risk analysis for the indirect operation of trains on this section of track.
Our contribution
Our Enotrac team carried out a number of important tasks, starting with the creation of a system definition. This was followed by a risk analysis workshop to identify and evaluate potential risks. This was followed by a risk assessment and the definition of risk mitigation measures to minimise the identified risks. Finally, a final report was drawn up summarising the results and measures. The risk analyses were then presented to the ISB in order to present the findings and recommendations.
Facts and Figures
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Client
BLS Netz AG
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Period
Since January 2025
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Location
Weissenbühl, Fischermätteli, Weyermannshaus; Switzerland
