Occupational Safety Training Materials in the Railway Sector

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The document for the occupational safety training course in the railway industry helps workers equip themselves with safety knowledge and prevent hazards when operating and repairing railways.

PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY IN TRAIN AND ELECTRIC TRAIN OPERATION

I. General Situation in the Railway Safety Document

Railway traffic accidents in the first 6 months of 2018 (from December 15, 2019, to June 14, 2020): 44 incidents occurred, killing 37 people and injuring 9. Compared to the same period last year, there was a decrease of 31 incidents (a 41.33% reduction), 16 fewer deaths (-30.19%), and 21 fewer injuries (a 70% reduction).

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II. Some Train Accidents in the Railway Safety Document

1. Accident at Nui Thanh Station

• Around 4:15 PM on May 26, 2018, freight train No. 2469, operated by driver Duong Tran Chi Hieu in the North-South direction, was preparing to enter Nui Thanh Station (Tam Nghia commune, Nui Thanh district) when it had a head-on collision with train No. ASY 2, operated by driver Nguyen Dinh Sang (from Nghe An), traveling in the opposite direction.

2. SE5 Train Accident

• Around 1:30 PM on August 7, 2018, a railway accident occurred between train SE5 and a truck carrying salt at a public level crossing in Phuoc Minh commune (Thuan Nam, Ninh Thuan), seriously injuring 2 people.

3. Accident on May 24, 2018

• On May 24, 2018, a train’s locomotive and carriages derailed after colliding with a car at the level crossing at km234+053 (Thanh Hoa) because the crossing guard failed to close the barrier in time. The train driver and assistant driver were killed, and 10 others, including the car driver, train staff, and passengers, were injured.

4. SE27 Train Accident from Da Nang to Saigon

• Around 8:40 AM on July 31, train SE27 on the Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City route was traveling on the railway at Km 1465+800 in Tuy Tinh 2 village, Phong Phu commune, Tuy Phong district, when it collided head-on with a 16-seater passenger bus with license plate 86B-003.66 from the Dong Hung bus company, which was crossing the railway tracks.

5. Thong Nhat Train No. SE8 Accident

• At 11:00 AM on April 20, the Thong Nhat train No. SE8, traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, collided with a truck with license plate 37C-30299 carrying soil at Dien Hong commune. The truck was driven by Ho Ba Son (23 years old), from hamlet 4, Quynh Thang commune, Quynh Luu district, Nghe An province, and was crossing the public railway from National Highway 1A.

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PART II: STANDARDS, DUTIES, AND POWERS OF RAILWAY EMPLOYEE POSITIONS DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN TRAIN OPERATIONS

SECTION 1: STANDARDS, DUTIES, AND POWERS FOR RAILWAY EMPLOYEE POSITIONS DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN TRAIN OPERATIONS ON NATIONAL AND DEDICATED RAILWAYS

Article 3. Railway Employee Positions Directly Involved in Train Operations on National and Dedicated Railways

Includes the positions specified in points a, b, c, d, dd, e, g, h, i of Clause 1, Article 35 of the Railway Law, the position of deputy passenger train master in charge of safety, and the position of the person directly operating railway transport vehicles for the enterprise’s production line.

Article 4. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Train Master in the Railway Safety Document

The Train Master includes the positions of Passenger Train Master and Freight Train Master.

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in train operation management or railway transport;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • For a Passenger Train Master, must have at least 01 year of direct experience as a Freight Train Master or Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety; for a Freight Train Master, must have at least 01 year of direct experience as a shunting master or have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the position of Freight Train Master or Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety;
   • Must pass a professional examination for the train master position organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties of the Passenger Train Master:
   • Is the highest commander on the train, responsible for ensuring safety, security, order, customer service, and the operation of all departments on the train;
   • Must create reports with the participation of witnesses regarding cases of birth, death, injury, and incidents related to security and order that occur on the train as prescribed by law;
   • Must fully comply with regulations on the transport of goods, passengers, and luggage by rail, and other legal and corporate regulations;
   • Must carry out procedures for requesting and organizing assistance;
   • Must record, summarize, and report incidents related to the train’s journey;
   • In cases where multiple trains are coupled into a passenger train consist, the master of the last train is the overall commander of the passenger train consist.
3. Duties of the Freight Train Master:
   • Is the highest commander on the freight train, responsible for ensuring safety, security, order, and customer service;
   • Must ensure the train runs according to the schedule and the commands of the train dispatcher, national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work;
   • Must create reports with the participation of witnesses regarding cases of birth, death, injury, and incidents related to security and order that occur on the train as prescribed by law;
   • Must fully comply with regulations on the transport of goods and luggage by rail, and other legal and corporate regulations;
   • Must pay attention to signals on the track, on the train, and information in permits, orders, and warnings to comply and to monitor the compliance of the train driver;
   • When the train passes each station, must confirm the train is intact and give a safety signal to the receiving staff. If a threat to train safety is detected while running, the train must be stopped for resolution or a way must be found to inform the receiving staff;
   • Must give the signal for the train to depart when all safety conditions are met;
   • Must promptly, fully, and accurately record the train’s logbook and any incidents related to the train’s journey;
   • Must command the train’s brake test and participate in the brake test council as regulated by the employing enterprise;
   • Must carry out procedures for requesting and organizing assistance;
   • In cases where multiple trains are coupled into a freight train consist, the master of the last train is the overall commander of the freight train consist.
4. Powers of the Passenger Train Master:
   • In urgent cases, the passenger train master has the right to make requests of passengers to implement measures to ensure the train’s safety and must immediately report the urgent situation to the train dispatcher or the nearest station;
   • May refuse to accept employees who are not qualified in terms of professional expertise or health for their designated positions on the train; may temporarily suspend the duties of on-train staff who violate legal or corporate regulations, causing a loss of train safety or affecting the quality of customer service. Must immediately report to the competent authority to resolve the situation when exercising the right of refusal specified in this point;
   • May decide to stop the train at the most convenient station or location to provide first aid to the injured, and transfer the injured or deceased, along with their property and related documents, to the station master, police, hospital, or local authorities for further action.

5. Powers of the Freight Train Master:
   • May refuse to let the train depart if safety conditions are not met;
   • May refuse to accept employees who are not qualified in terms of professional expertise or health for their designated positions on the train;
   • May decide to stop the train at the most convenient station or location to provide first aid to the injured, and transfer the injured or deceased, along with their property and related documents, to the station master, police, hospital, or local authorities for further action.
6. For trains without an assigned Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety, the Passenger Train Master must perform all the duties and have all the powers of the Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety.

Article 5. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Deputy Passenger Train Master in Charge of Safety

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in train operation management or railway transport;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have at least 01 year of direct experience as a Freight Train Master or have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the position of Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety;
   • Must pass a professional examination for the Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety position organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • Must ensure the train runs according to the schedule and the commands of the train dispatcher, national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work;
   • Must pay attention to signals on the track, on the train, and information in permits, orders, and warnings to comply and to monitor the compliance of the train driver;
   • When the train passes a station, must confirm the train is intact and give a safety signal to the receiving staff. If a threat to train safety is detected while running, the train must be stopped for resolution or a way must be found to inform the receiving staff;
   • Must give the signal for the train to depart when safety conditions are met;
   • Must promptly, fully, and accurately record the train’s logbook and any incidents related to the train’s journey;
   • Must command the train’s brake test and participate in the brake test council as regulated by the employing enterprise for the Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety;
   • Must carry out procedures for requesting and organizing assistance as assigned by the Passenger Train Master;
   • In cases where multiple passenger trains are coupled into one passenger train consist, the Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety of the last train is the Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety for the coupled train.
3. Powers:
   • May refuse to let the train depart if safety conditions are not met;
   • May refuse to accept employees who are not qualified in terms of professional expertise or health for their designated positions on the train.

Article 6. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Train Driver in the Railway Safety Document

1. Standards:
   • Must have a valid train driver’s license issued by a competent authority as prescribed by law.
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • For drivers of freight trains without a train master, they must receive additional professional training and pass an examination for driving freight trains without a train master, organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties of the Train Driver:
   • Must understand and correctly implement the regulations related to their scope of work in the national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work;
   • Must be proficient in the operating procedures of the driving crew, methods of using the locomotive, track conditions, signal locations, and train schedules;
   • Must operate the locomotive safely, not exceeding the specified speed, according to the train schedule and the commands of the train dispatcher;
   • In the event of a railway traffic accident, must perform emergency stop procedures;
   • Is only permitted to operate a train with a driver’s license corresponding to the type of vehicle being operated;
   • Before starting the train, the driver must check and confirm the train running token that authorizes occupancy of the block section, and accurately confirm the departure signal from the train master and the station duty officer, even when the locomotive is running light;
   • While driving, the driver is responsible for checking the technical condition of the locomotive and other issues related to locomotive and train safety as regulated, remaining alert to follow and correctly implement the instructions of signs, signals, and markers on the track, observing the condition of the track and bridges and the indication of signals, and checking the effectiveness of the automatic braking system as specified in the national technical regulations on railway operation, especially when the train is ascending or descending steep and long gradients;
   • Must guide and supervise the assistant driver during practical driving and is primarily responsible for train safety while the assistant driver is practicing.
3. Duties of the Train Driver for Freight Trains without a Train Master (light engine, freight train using an end-of-train device without a train master), in addition to the duties specified in Clause 2 of this Article, must perform the following additional duties:
   • Is the highest commander on the train, responsible for ensuring train safety;
   • Must pay attention to signals on the track, on the train, and information in permits, orders, and warnings to operate the train safely;
   • When passing each station, must confirm the train is intact via the end-of-train signaling device. If a threat to train safety is detected while running, the train must be stopped for resolution or a way must be found to inform the receiving staff (even if the train is passing through the station);
   • Must promptly, fully, and accurately record the train’s composition, frequency, departure and arrival times, pass-through times, stops in block sections, and other related incidents in the train logbook and required report forms;
   • Must perform a brake test if the train stops on the line for more than 20 minutes or at stations without a wagon inspection station where wagons have been uncoupled. Additionally, must participate in the train brake test council at departure stations and at stations where technical operations are performed;
   • Must carry out procedures for requesting and participating in assistance;
   • Must keep a logbook and prepare reports related to the train’s journey;
   • Must handle the receipt and delivery of sealed documents related to freight transport as regulated by the employing enterprise;
   • In cases where multiple trains are coupled into a mixed train, the driver of the first train is the overall commander of the mixed train;
   • When a freight train has 02 or more locomotives pulling it without a train master, the driver of the lead locomotive shall perform the duties of the freight train master as specified in Clause 3, Article 4 of this Circular.
4. Powers:
   • May refuse to operate the locomotive or train if it is deemed that the locomotive or train does not meet the necessary safety conditions and must immediately report to their enterprise’s management and the station duty officer for resolution;
   • May suspend the assistant driver for violations of national technical regulations on railway operation or operating procedures that threaten train safety and must immediately report to their direct supervisor to arrange a replacement;
   • For freight trains without a train master, the driver has additional powers as specified in Clause 5, Article 4 of this Circular.

Article 7. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Person Directly Operating Railway Transport Vehicles for an Enterprise’s Production Line

1. Standards:
   • A person directly operating railway transport vehicles for an enterprise’s production line on a dedicated railway within the enterprise’s internal premises, not passing through residential areas, not intersecting with the road system, and not connected to national, urban, or other dedicated railways, must meet the following standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in driving railway transport vehicles appropriate for the type of vehicle being operated;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for this position and passed a professional examination on operating railway transport vehicles organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • Must understand and correctly implement the regulations related to their scope of work according to the dedicated railway operation procedures prescribed by the enterprise;
   • Must be proficient in the operating procedures for the person directly operating railway transport vehicles for the enterprise’s production line, methods of using the railway transport vehicles, track conditions, signal locations, and operating schedules;
   • Must operate the railway transport vehicles safely, not exceeding the specified speed, according to the operating schedule and the commands of the train dispatcher;
   • In the event of a railway traffic accident, must perform emergency stop procedures for the railway transport vehicle;
   • Before starting the railway transport vehicle, must confirm that all safety conditions for operation are met;
   • While operating the railway transport vehicle, is responsible for checking its technical condition and other issues related to vehicle and operational safety, remaining alert to follow and correctly implement the instructions of signs, signals, and markers on the track, observing the condition of the track and bridges and the indication of signals, and checking the effectiveness of the automatic braking system.
3. Powers:
   • May refuse to operate the railway transport vehicle if it is deemed that the vehicle does not meet the necessary safety conditions and must immediately report to their enterprise’s management for resolution.

Article 8. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Assistant Train Driver in the Railway Safety Document

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in driving railway transport vehicles appropriate for the type of vehicle being operated;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the position of assistant train driver and passed a professional examination for assistant train drivers organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • To assist the train driver during train operation, monitor the train’s speed, and observe signals to promptly inform the driver for handling;
   • During train operation, must remain alert, observe the condition of the track and bridges, and inform the train driver to correctly follow the instructions of signs, signals, and markers on the railway;
   • To perform other duties as assigned by the train driver.
3. Powers:
   • To inform the train driver to stop the train upon detecting risks that may cause a loss of train safety;
   • Is permitted to practice driving the train under the guidance and supervision of the train driver.

Article 9. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Line Train Dispatcher

1. Standards:
   • Must have a college degree or higher in train operation management or railway transport for line train dispatchers on national railways and dedicated railways connected to national railways; must have a vocational secondary school degree or higher in train operation management or railway transport for line train dispatchers on dedicated railways not connected to national railways;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have at least 01 year of direct experience in one or both of the positions of station dispatcher and station duty officer.
2. Duties:
   • To directly command train operations according to the train schedule on the assigned line or section;
   • To directly convey commands from competent authorities regarding the organization of train operations, rescue, and relief in case of train accidents or incidents.
3. Powers:
   • To issue orders to close a block section, speed warning orders to relevant units, and orders for temporary suspension of train operations if a risk of losing train safety is perceived;
   • To suspend the duties of the following positions: Station Train Dispatcher, Station Duty Officer, Train Driver, Assistant Train Driver, Train Master, Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety within the assigned section, if they are found on duty to be violating national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work, or operating procedures that threaten train safety, and to immediately report to the heads of the relevant units to arrange replacements.

Article 10. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Station Train Dispatcher in the Railway Safety Document

1. Standards:
   • Must have a college degree or higher in train operation management or railway transport for station train dispatchers on national railways and dedicated railways connected to national railways; must have a vocational secondary school degree or higher in train operation management or railway transport for station train dispatchers on dedicated railways not connected to national railways;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have at least 01 year of direct experience as a station duty officer;
   • Must pass a professional examination for the station train dispatcher position organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • To directly create and implement plans for train formation, loading and unloading of goods, passenger reception and dispatch, organizing shunting, and receiving and dispatching trains and other related tasks at the station according to the train schedule, the commands of the line train dispatcher, and national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work.

3. Powers:
   • To temporarily suspend train operations within the station area if a risk of losing train safety is perceived and must immediately report to the line train dispatcher;
   • To suspend the duties of the following positions: Station Duty Officer, Shunting Master, Pointsman, Locomotive and Wagon Coupler when on duty, if they are found to be violating national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work, or operating procedures that threaten train safety, and to immediately report to the station master to arrange replacements;
   • To report and recommend that the employing enterprise suspend the duties of the Train Master, Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety, Train Driver, and Assistant Train Driver if they are found on duty to be violating national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work, or operating procedures that threaten train safety.

Article 11. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Station Duty Officer

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in train operation management or railway transport;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have direct experience in all three positions of shunting master, pointsman, and locomotive and wagon coupler, with at least 02 months of experience in each position;
   • Must pass a professional examination for the station duty officer position organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • To manage train formation, loading and unloading of goods, passenger reception and dispatch, organizing shunting, receiving and dispatching trains, and other related tasks at the station according to the train schedule, train operation commands, national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work;
   • To check necessary safety conditions, in compliance with technical regulations and other issues related to the safety of people, vehicles, equipment, and goods while on duty.
3. Powers:
   • To refuse to organize train operations if it is deemed that the necessary safety conditions are not met and is responsible for immediately reporting to the station train dispatcher and the line train dispatcher;
   • To suspend the duties of the following positions: Shunting Master, Pointsman, Locomotive and Wagon Coupler when on duty, if they are found to be violating national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work, or operating procedures that threaten train safety, and to immediately report to the station master to arrange replacements (for stations without a station train dispatcher);
   • To report and recommend that the employing enterprise suspend the duties of the Train Master, Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety, Train Driver, Assistant Train Driver, Level Crossing Guard, Shared Bridge Guard, and Railway Tunnel Guard if they are found on duty to be violating national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures, and railway shunting work, or operating procedures that threaten train safety.

Article 12. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Shunting Master in the Railway Safety Document

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in train operation management or railway transport; Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have direct experience in both positions of pointsman and locomotive and wagon coupler, with at least 02 months of work experience at a station in each position;
   • Must pass a professional examination for the shunting master position organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • Is under the command and direction of the station duty officer to organize and perform shunting and coupling of locomotives and wagons for train operation organization, goods loading/unloading, and passenger transport at the station, in accordance with train operation commands, national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures and railway shunting work, and station technical management rules;
   • To check necessary safety conditions, in compliance with technical regulations and other issues related to train safety while performing assigned duties.
3. Powers:
   • To temporarily halt shunting operations if it is deemed that necessary safety conditions are not met and to immediately report to the station duty officer;
   • To report and recommend to the station train dispatcher or the station duty officer (for stations without a station train dispatcher) the suspension of duties for locomotive and wagon coupling staff on duty who violate national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures and railway shunting work, or station technical management rules that threaten train safety.

Article 13. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Pointsman in the Railway Safety Document

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in train operation management, railway transport, points operation, or locomotive and wagon coupling;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the position of pointsman and passed a professional examination for pointsmen organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • Is under the direct command and direction of the station duty officer to manage, supervise, check, and use points for the station’s train operation organization according to the train schedule, train operation commands, national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures and railway shunting work, and station technical management rules;
   • To check necessary safety conditions, in compliance with technical regulations and other issues related to train safety while performing assigned duties.
3. Powers:
   • To signal the train to stop if it is deemed that necessary safety conditions are not met and to immediately report to the station duty officer.

Article 14. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Locomotive and Wagon Coupling Staff

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in train operation management, railway transport, points operation, or locomotive and wagon coupling;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the position of locomotive and wagon coupling staff and passed a professional examination for this position organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • Is under the direct command and direction of the shunting master to perform shunting and coupling of locomotives and wagons according to national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures and railway shunting work, and station technical management rules;
   • To check necessary safety conditions, in compliance with technical regulations and other issues related to train safety while performing assigned duties.
3. Powers:
   • To temporarily halt the execution of the shunting plan if it is deemed that necessary safety conditions are not met and to immediately report to the shunting master.

Article 15. Standards, Duties, and Powers of Track, Bridge, and Tunnel Patrol Staff

1. Standards:
   • Must be a worker in railway, railway bridge, or railway tunnel maintenance and repair with 03 years of experience or more and have a degree or certificate in railways, bridges, tunnels, track patrolling, bridge patrolling, or tunnel patrolling;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the positions of track, bridge, or tunnel patrol staff and passed a professional examination for these positions organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • To inspect and monitor, promptly detect damages and obstacles, and take action to ensure train safety within the assigned area, record everything fully in the patrol log, and report to superiors as required;
   • To repair and resolve minor damages and obstacles promptly, and participate in the maintenance of bridges, tracks, and tunnels as assigned;
   • To promptly provide protection, and quickly inform or signal a train to stop upon discovering damage or an obstacle that could compromise traffic safety;
   • To participate in protecting railway infrastructure and railway transport vehicles within the assigned area.
3. Powers:
   • To implement measures to signal a train to stop if it is deemed that necessary train safety conditions are not met, and to immediately report to the station duty officer at the head of the block section and the direct superior.

Article 16. Standards, Duties, and Powers of Level Crossing and Shared Bridge Guards

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in railways, railway bridges, level crossing guarding, shared bridge guarding, or railway tunnel guarding;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the positions of level crossing guard, shared bridge guard, or railway tunnel guard and passed a professional examination for these positions organized by the employing enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • To close and open level crossing barriers and road barriers at shared railway bridges in a timely manner, ensuring safety for people and road transport vehicles when railway vehicles pass;
   • To inspect and maintain level crossing and shared bridge barrier equipment in accordance with the provisions of national technical regulations on railway operation;
   • Upon detecting an act or incident that could cause obstruction or compromise railway traffic safety, is responsible for promptly reporting to the nearest station and direct superiors for remedial action;
   • To fully maintain the level crossing and shared bridge logbook;
   • To perform other duties as prescribed by law regarding level crossings and shared bridges.

3. Powers:
   • Is authorized to signal a train to stop in an emergency that directly threatens train safety;
   • To stop road transport vehicles when the level crossing or shared bridge area is not safe for vehicles to cross.

Article 17. Standards, Duties, and Powers of Railway Tunnel Guards

1. Standards:
   • Must meet the standards as specified in Clause 1, Article 16 of this Circular.
2. Duties:
   • To prevent unauthorized persons and animals from entering the railway tunnel area;
   • To inspect and protect the railway infrastructure within the railway tunnel to ensure safety;
   • Upon detecting an act or incident that could cause obstruction or compromise railway traffic safety, is responsible for promptly reporting to the nearest station and direct superiors for remedial action;
   • To fully maintain the railway tunnel guard logbook;
   • To perform other duties as prescribed in the railway infrastructure maintenance procedures.

3. Powers:
   • Is authorized to signal a train to stop in an emergency that directly threatens train safety.

Article 18. Holding Railway Employee Positions Directly Involved in Train Operations on National and Dedicated Railways

1. Railway employees directly involved in train operations are permitted to perform the duties of other positions as assigned by the employer, according to the following provisions:
   • A Line Train Dispatcher may perform the duties of Station Train Dispatcher, Station Duty Officer, Train Master, Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety, Shunting Master, Pointsman, and Locomotive and Wagon Coupler;
   • A Station Train Dispatcher may perform the duties of Station Duty Officer, Train Master, Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety, Shunting Master, Pointsman, and Locomotive and Wagon Coupler;
   • A Station Duty Officer may perform the duties of Train Master, Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety, Shunting Master, Pointsman, and Locomotive and Wagon Coupler;
   • A Train Master may perform the duties of Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety, Station Duty Officer, Shunting Master, Pointsman, and Locomotive and Wagon Coupler;
   • A Deputy Passenger Train Master in charge of safety may perform the duties of Freight Train Master, Station Duty Officer, Shunting Master, Pointsman, and Locomotive and Wagon Coupler;
   • A Shunting Master may perform the duties of Pointsman and Locomotive and Wagon Coupler;
   • A Train Driver may perform the duties of an Assistant Train Driver;
   • Pointsmen and Locomotive and Wagon Couplers may perform each other’s duties;
   • Track, Bridge, and Tunnel Patrol staff may perform each other’s duties;
   • Shared Bridge, Level Crossing, and Tunnel Guards may perform each other’s duties.
2. Depending on the operational technology and workload, the enterprise employing the railway staff positions directly involved in train operations as specified in Article 3 of this Circular shall proactively arrange the number of staff in these positions to ensure train safety.
3. In cases where a railway employee directly involved in train operations has not performed their duties for more than 06 consecutive months, if they wish to resume their duties, they must pass a professional examination as required and organized by the employing enterprise.

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SECTION 2: STANDARDS, DUTIES, AND POWERS FOR RAILWAY EMPLOYEE POSITIONS DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN TRAIN OPERATIONS ON URBAN RAILWAYS

Article 19. Railway Employee Positions Directly Involved in Train Operations on Urban Railways

Railway employees directly involved in train operations on urban railways include the following positions:

1. Train Dispatcher.
2. Train Driver.
3. Station Train Service Staff.
4. On-board Safety Support Staff.

Article 20. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Train Dispatcher

1. Standards:
   • Must have a college degree or higher in urban railway operation, transport, or exploitation;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have at least 01 year of direct experience in one of the three positions: Train Driver, Station Train Service Staff, or On-board Safety Support Staff;
   • Must pass a professional examination for train dispatchers organized by the urban railway business enterprise.
2. Duties:
   • To directly command train operations according to the train schedule on the assigned line;
   • To directly convey commands for organizing and commanding rescue, relief, and assistance trains in the event of a train accident or incident.
3. Powers:
   • To issue orders to close a block section, speed warning orders to relevant units, and orders for temporary suspension of train operations if a risk of losing train safety is perceived;
   • To suspend the duties of the Train Driver, Station Train Service Staff, or On-board Safety Support Staff on duty if they are found to be violating national technical regulations on urban railway operation and maintenance, or operating procedures that threaten train safety, and to immediately report to the direct supervisor to arrange a replacement.

Article 21. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Train Driver in the Railway Safety Document

1. Standards:
   • Must have a valid train driver’s license issued by a competent authority as prescribed by law;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health.

2. Duties:
   • To directly operate the train safely, at the specified speed, according to the train schedule, and to follow the train operation commands of the train dispatcher, operational procedures, and participate in resolving incidents and traffic accidents on the urban railway line.
3. Powers:
   • To refuse to operate the train if it is deemed that necessary safety conditions are not met and to immediately report to the train dispatcher.

Article 22. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the Station Train Service Staff

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in urban railway transport or exploitation;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the position of Station Train Service Staff and passed a professional examination for this position organized by the urban railway business enterprise.

2. Duties:
   • Is responsible for carrying out the train operation commands of the train dispatcher, and directly participating in resolving and overcoming incidents and train accidents at the station.
3. Powers:
   • Has the right to signal a train to stop or not to run if it is deemed that necessary safety conditions are not met and must immediately report to the train dispatcher.

Article 23. Standards, Duties, and Powers of the On-board Safety Support Staff in the Railway Safety Document

1. Standards:
   • Must have a degree or certificate in urban railway transport or exploitation;
   • Must meet the health requirements as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have completed a probationary period according to labor laws for the position of On-board Safety Support Staff and passed a professional examination for this position organized by the urban railway business enterprise.

2. Duties:
   • To assist the train driver in checking, supervising, and ensuring the safety of passengers boarding and alighting the train, and to inform the train driver for safe train operation, and to coordinate with the train driver in resolving incidents and railway traffic accidents on the line;
3. Powers:
   • Has the right to signal a train to stop or to inform the train driver not to run if it is deemed that necessary safety conditions are not met.

Article 24. Holding Railway Employee Positions Directly Involved in Train Operations on Urban Railways

1. Railway employees directly involved in train operations are permitted to perform the duties of other positions as assigned by the employer, according to the following provisions:
   • A Train Driver is permitted to perform the duties of an On-board Safety Support Staff;
   • A Train Dispatcher is permitted to perform the duties of positions directly involved in train operations that they previously held for at least 01 year.

2. Depending on the operational technology and workload, the enterprise employing the railway staff positions directly involved in train operations as specified in Article 19 of this Circular shall proactively arrange the number of staff in these positions to ensure train safety.
3. Train drivers must undergo training and examination when changing to drive on different urban railway lines or types of trains. The urban railway business enterprise is responsible for providing training and examination for these drivers.
4. In cases where a railway employee directly involved in train operations has not performed their duties for more than 06 consecutive months, if they wish to resume their duties, they must pass a professional examination as required and organized by the urban railway business enterprise.

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PART III: CONTENT AND TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR RAILWAY EMPLOYEES DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN TRAIN OPERATIONS

Article 25. Content and Training Programs for Issuing Degrees and Certificates of Elementary Level or Higher

The content and training programs for issuing degrees and certificates of elementary level or higher shall comply with the laws on vocational education and higher education.

Article 26. Content and Training Programs for Issuing Professional Certificates

1. The content and training programs for issuing professional certificates for the positions of pointsman, locomotive and wagon coupling staff; track, bridge, and tunnel patrol staff; level crossing, shared bridge, and tunnel guards shall comply with the provisions in Appendix I issued with this Circular.
2. Based on the content, training programs, and issuance of professional certificates specified in Clause 1 of this Article, the training institution shall determine the detailed training program as regulated.

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PART IV: ORGANIZATION OF EXAMINATION, ISSUANCE, RE-ISSUANCE, AND REVOCATION OF TRAIN DRIVER’S LICENSES

Article 27. Train Driver’s License in the Railway Safety Document

1. Train driver’s licenses on national railways, dedicated railways, and for enterprise production lines (enterprise’s private railway) include the following types:
   • Diesel locomotive driver’s license (also applicable for diesel multiple unit drivers);
   • Electric locomotive driver’s license (also applicable for electric multiple unit drivers);
   • Steam locomotive driver’s license;
   • Specialized railway vehicle driver’s license.
2. Train driver’s licenses on urban railways include:
   • Electric train (including electric locomotives), diesel locomotives, and specialized vehicles on urban railways driver’s license;
   • Electric train, diesel locomotives, electric locomotives, and specialized vehicles driver’s license within the urban railway inspection workshop (depot);
   • Electric train (including electric locomotives), diesel locomotives, and specialized vehicles on urban railways driver’s license issued to foreign drivers.
3. A train driver’s license is valid for 10 years from the date of issue. The template for the train driver’s license is specified in Appendix II issued with this Circular.
4. Use of the train driver’s license:
   • The license holder is only permitted to operate the type of railway transport vehicle and within the scope specified in the license and must carry the license while driving;
   • A person holding a driver’s license as specified in points a, b, c of Clause 1 of this Article is permitted to drive corresponding specialized railway vehicles but must be trained and pass a professional examination for the corresponding specialized railway transport vehicle as prescribed and organized by the enterprise;
   • A person holding a driver’s license as specified in Clause 1 of this Article is permitted to drive trains on the enterprise’s private railway;
   • A person holding a driver’s license as specified in points a, c of Clause 2 of this Article is permitted to drive trains within the urban railway inspection workshop (depot);
   • If a driver does not hold a position according to their license for 12 months or more, the license becomes invalid. If they wish to resume the position, they must undergo an examination and be issued a train driver’s license as specified in Article 35 of this Circular.

Article 28. Conditions for Examination and Issuance of a Train Driver’s License

1. Conditions for examination:
   • Must be aged between 23 and 55 for men, and 23 and 50 for women, and be in good health to drive various types of railway transport vehicles as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • Must have a degree or certificate in driving railway transport vehicles appropriate for the type of vehicle to be examined;
   • For the position of train driver on national and dedicated railways, must have at least 24 consecutive months of safe work as an assistant driver.
2. Conditions for being issued a train driver’s license:
   • Must have a complete application file as specified in Clause 2, Article 35 of this Circular;
   • Must meet the requirements for the examination content specified in this Circular.

Article 29. Examination Council for Issuing Train Driver’s Licenses

1. The Examination Council for Issuing Train Driver’s Licenses (hereinafter referred to as the Examination Council) is established by the Director of the Vietnam Railway Authority.
2. The composition of the Examination Council shall have from 05 to 07 members, including:
   • The Chairman of the Council is a leader of the Vietnam Railway Authority or a person authorized by the Director of the Vietnam Railway Authority;
   • The Vice Chairman of the Council is a leader of the enterprise whose candidates are participating in the examination;
   • Other members of the Council are decided by the Director of the Vietnam Railway Authority.
3. Operating principles:
   • The Examination Council shall only convene when the Chairman of the Council and at least 60% of the total members of the Council are present;
   • The conclusions of the Examination Council are valid only when agreed upon by at least 80% of the total members present;
   • The Examination Council shall dissolve itself upon completion of its duties.
   • Duties and powers of the Examination Council:
   • To direct and inspect the preparation for the examination;
   • To preside over the development and submission of the examination content to the Director of the Vietnam Railway Authority for approval before organizing the examination;
   • To direct the examination in strict accordance with the regulations of the Ministry of Transport;
   • To disseminate and guide the content, examination procedures, and other necessary regulations to the examiners;
   • To arrange the examination schedule and organize the examination;
   • To temporarily suspend the examination and report to the Director of the Vietnam Railway Authority if the conditions for organizing the examination are not met;
   • To summarize the results of the examination and prepare minutes, and to archive the documents and materials of the examination at the Vietnam Railway Authority;
   • To decide on the handling and resolution of violations of the examination procedures reported by the Examination Team.

Article 30. Examination Team in the Railway Safety Document

1. The Examination Team is established by the Director of the Vietnam Railway Authority and is under the direct supervision of the Examination Council.
2. The Examination Team shall have at least 05 members, including a team leader, theory examiners, and practical examiners. The Team Leader is a civil servant of the Vietnam Railway Authority or a leader of the enterprise whose candidates are participating in the examination. The examiners are individuals currently working at the enterprise whose candidates are participating and individuals working at training institutions related to train driving.
3. Standards for examiners:
   • Must have good moral character and suitable professional expertise;
   • Must have completed a training course on train driver examination techniques organized by the Vietnam Railway Authority and have been issued an examiner’s card;
   • Theory examiners must have a university degree or higher in a field relevant to the examination content and at least 03 years of experience related to train driving;
   • Practical examiners must have a vocational secondary school degree or higher in train driving; have at least 03 years of direct experience as a train driver, and for urban railway driver examiners, at least 01 year of direct experience as an urban railway driver.
4. The content of the professional development for train driver examiners is specified in Appendix III issued with this Circular.
5. Duties and powers of the Examination Team:
   • To assist the Examination Council in developing the examination content for submission to the Vietnam Railway Authority for approval;
   • To check the standards and specifications of the vehicles and specialized equipment for the examination and the safety assurance plan for the examination;
   • To disseminate the examination content and procedures and to check compliance with examination regulations;
   • To grade the exams and summarize the results of the examination to report to the Examination Council; d) Examiners are directly responsible for the grading results. The Team Leader and the Examination Team are collectively responsible for the examination results;
   • To create reports and handle violations of examination regulations within their assigned authority or report to the Chairman or the Examination Council for resolution if it exceeds their authority.
6. The Examination Team shall dissolve itself upon completion of its duties.

Article 31. Organization of the Examination, Examination Location, Vehicles, and Equipment for the Examination

1. Organization of the examination
   • Based on the results of the appraisal of the examination application files, the Director of the Vietnam Railway Authority shall issue a decision to organize the examination for the issuance of a train driver’s license at the enterprise that has requested the examination.

2. Examination Location
   • The examination location shall be arranged by the enterprise. The examination location must meet the conditions regarding personnel, facilities, and various types of railway transport vehicles, specialized equipment, and an operational railway line to serve the examination of the content specified in Clause 1, Article 32 of this Circular.

3. Vehicles used for the practical examination must be in good technical condition and must meet the conditions for traffic participation as specified in Clause 1, Article 30 of the Railway Law.

Article 32. Examination Procedure in the Railway Safety Document

1. The examination procedure consists of the following 4 steps:
   • Step 1: Theory examination;
   • Step 2: Practical examination on machine inspection for drivers on national and dedicated railways; practical examination on pre-operation technical checks, incident handling, and emergency situations for drivers on urban railways;
   • Step 3: Practical driving examination;
   • Step 4: Re-examination of the practical part for candidates who failed one of the two practical examination parts in step 2 or step 3;
   • Depending on the actual situation regarding locomotives and trains, the Examination Council may swap the order of steps 2 and 3 as specified in this Clause.
2. Candidates who fail the theory examination will not be scheduled for the practical examination.
3. Candidates who fail both practical examination parts in steps 2 and 3 will not be scheduled for a practical re-examination.
4. Candidates who fail one of the two practical examination parts in step 2 or step 3 will be scheduled for one re-examination of the failed practical part.
5. Candidates who fail the examination may be scheduled for a re-examination in a subsequent examination period but will not have their results from the previous examination carried over.

Article 33. Disqualification from Examination in the Railway Safety Document

The Chairman of the Examination Council shall issue a decision to disqualify a candidate from the examination in the following cases:

1. For the theory examination:
   • Receiving a second formal warning for violating regulations;
   • Bringing unauthorized materials or items into the examination room.
2. For the practical machine inspection, pre-operation technical check, incident handling, and emergency situations:
   • Exceeding the allotted time by more than 20 minutes;
   • Causing a workplace accident that requires the Examination Team to halt the examination for resolution;
   • Damaging machine parts to the extent that material compensation or replacement is required.
3. For the practical driving examination:
   • Committing an error that would result in an administrative penalty for a train driver under current regulations;
   • Automatically starting the train into a block section without a running token or a departure signal from the station duty officer or train master;
   • Changing the direction of travel before the train has come to a complete stop;
   • Applying the brakes with excessive air pressure, causing the wheels to lock and slide;
   • Causing the train to stall on a slope, leading to an incident, or stopping the train beyond the collision avoidance marker;
   • Failing to detect and promptly handle a situation that arises, leading to a stall or stoppage of the train;
   • Causing other dangerous situations that force the Examination Team to use emergency measures to prevent an accident.
4. During the examination, failing to comply with the examiner’s instructions or engaging in disruptive or disorderly conduct to the extent that a formal report is filed.

Article 34. Conditions for Being Recognized as Passing the Examination

A candidate is recognized as having passed the examination when they pass both the theory and practical examinations and do not commit any of the disqualifying errors specified in Article 33 of this Circular.

Article 35. Procedures for Examination and Issuance of a Train Driver’s License in the Railway Safety Document

1. Procedure:
   • Enterprises or individuals needing to take the examination for a train driver’s license shall submit one set of documents directly, through the postal system, or by other suitable means to the Vietnam Railway Authority;
   • The Vietnam Railway Authority will receive and check the documents. Within 02 days of receiving the documents, the Vietnam Railway Authority is responsible for notifying the enterprise or individual in writing of the time and place of the examination if the documents are complete and valid as required. If the documents are not complete as required, the organization or individual will be instructed to complete them on the same working day (if submitted directly) or within 02 working days of receipt (if received by post or other means). Within 03 working days from the date of the examination results, the Vietnam Railway Authority will issue a train driver’s license to those who are recognized as having passed the examination.

2. Application file for examination and new issuance of a train driver’s license includes:
   • An application for examination and new issuance of a train driver’s license using the form specified in Appendix IV issued with this Circular;
   • A written request from the enterprise to organize the examination and issue a train driver’s license using the form specified in Appendix V issued with this Circular;
   • A health certificate confirming fitness to drive a train as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • A notarized copy or a copy accompanied by the original for comparison of the degree or certificate in driving a railway transport vehicle appropriate for the type of vehicle to be examined;
   • 03 color photos, size 3×4 cm, taken within 06 months of the application submission date.

3. The application file for the examination and issuance of a train driver’s license as specified in Clause 2 of this Article shall be archived at the Vietnam Railway Authority for a period of 10 years. The destruction of expired documents shall comply with current regulations.

Article 36. Procedure for Issuing an Urban Railway Driver’s License to a Foreigner who Already Holds a Driver’s License Issued by a Foreign Competent Authority

1. Procedure
   • The urban railway business enterprise that hires a foreigner who already holds a driver’s license issued by a foreign competent authority shall submit one set of documents directly, through the postal system, or by other suitable means to the Vietnam Railway Authority;
   • The Vietnam Railway Authority will receive and check the documents. If the documents are not complete as required, the organization or individual will be instructed to complete them on the same working day (if submitted directly) or within 02 working days of receipt (if received by post or other means). If the documents are complete, a driver’s license will be issued within 03 working days of receiving the documents. In case of refusal, a written reply will be provided stating the reason.
2. Application file for the issuance of an urban railway driver’s license to a foreigner who already holds a driver’s license issued by a foreign competent authority includes:
   • An application for a driver’s license using the form specified in Appendix VI issued with this Circular;
   • A written request from the urban railway business enterprise that hires the foreigner, using the form specified in Appendix VII issued with this Circular;
   • A health certificate confirming fitness to drive a train as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • The labor contract between the urban railway business enterprise and the foreign driver;
   • A copy of the valid driver’s license issued by the foreign competent authority with technology corresponding to the urban railway line being operated, with a notarized Vietnamese translation;
   • The results of the competency and professional skills test for urban railway driving for each driver, organized by the urban railway business enterprise according to the content specified in Section 5 and Section 6 of Chapter V of this Circular.
   • 03 color photos, size 3×4 cm, taken within 06 months of the application submission date.
3. The application file for the issuance of a driver’s license as specified in Clause 2 of this Article shall be archived at the Vietnam Railway Authority for a period of 10 years. The destruction of expired documents shall comply with current regulations.

Article 37. Procedure for Re-issuing a Train Driver’s License in the Railway Safety Document

1. A train driver’s license is re-issued in the following cases:
   • Expired;
   • Damaged or lost.
2. Procedure:
   • An individual needing to have their train driver’s license re-issued must submit one application file directly, through the postal system, or by other suitable means to the Vietnam Railway Authority;
   • The Vietnam Railway Authority will receive and check the file. If the file is not complete as required, the individual will be instructed to complete it on the same working day (if submitted directly) or within 02 working days of receipt (if received by post or other means). If the file is complete, the train driver’s license will be re-issued within 03 working days of receiving the file. In case of refusal, a written reply will be provided stating the reason.
3. Application file for re-issuing a train driver’s license includes:
   • An application for re-issuing a train driver’s license with confirmation from the head of the direct managing unit, using the form specified in Appendix VIII issued with this Circular;
   • A health certificate confirming fitness to drive a train as prescribed by the Minister of Health;
   • 03 color photos, size 3×4 cm, taken within 06 months of the application submission date.
4. The application file for re-issuing a train driver’s license as specified in Clause 3 of this Article shall be archived at the Vietnam Railway Authority for a period of 10 years. The destruction of expired documents shall comply with current regulations.

Article 38. Revocation of a Train Driver’s License in the Railway Safety Document

1. A train driver’s license is revoked in the following cases:
   • Issued to a person who does not meet the conditions specified in Article 28 of this Circular;
   • Fraudulent acts in the preparation of application files for issuance or re-issuance as specified in Articles 35, 36, and 37 of this Circular.
2. The Vietnam Railway Authority is responsible for issuing a decision to revoke the train driver’s license; the enterprise directly managing the driver is responsible for collecting the train driver’s license and sending it to the Vietnam Railway Authority.

Article 39. Fees and Charges for Issuance and Re-issuance of a Train Driver’s License in the Railway Safety Document

A person participating in the examination for a train driver’s license or applying for re-issuance must pay fees and charges as prescribed by law.

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PART V: CONTENT OF THE EXAMINATION FOR ISSUANCE OF A TRAIN DRIVER’S LICENSE

SECTION 1. THEORY EXAMINATION

Article 40. Content of the Theory Examination for Drivers on National Railways, Dedicated Railways, and Enterprise’s Private Railways

1. General knowledge part: Basic content of the Railway Law and related guiding documents, national technical regulations on railway operation, railway signals, train running procedures and railway shunting work, operating procedures of the driving crew, general orders, special instructions, train running directives, and other current related regulations.
2. Specialized knowledge part: Basic content on the engine, braking system, running gear, electrical system, transmission system, and safety system of the type of railway transport vehicle.

Article 41. Content of the Theory Examination for Drivers on Urban Railways, within the Urban Railway Inspection Workshop (Depot)

1. General knowledge part related to the urban railway system, including:
   • Technical regulations;
   • Operating rules;
   • Safety work;
   • Train driving theory;
   • Signals and routes;
   • The Railway Law and related guiding documents for train drivers.
2. Specialized knowledge part, including:
   • Structure and basic operating principles of urban railway locomotives, wagons, and trains;
   • Structure and basic operating principles of the electrical system, control system, and safety system for urban train operation.

Article 42. Examination Format in the Railway Safety Document

The theory examination is conducted in one of the following two formats:

1. Written essay exam.
2. Multiple-choice test.

Article 43. Written Essay Exam in the Railway Safety Document

1. Time allowed: 150 minutes (excluding time for copying the questions).
2. Number of questions:
   • General knowledge part: 4 questions;
   • Specialized knowledge part: 2 questions.
3. Scoring scale: The maximum score is 10 points and is regulated as follows:
   • Each question in the general knowledge part is worth a maximum of 1.5 points;
   • Each question in the specialized knowledge part is worth a maximum of 02 points.

Article 44. Multiple-Choice Test in the Railway Safety Document

1. Time allowed: 60 minutes.
2. Number of questions:
   • General knowledge part: 30 questions;
   • Specialized knowledge part: 15 questions.
3. Scoring scale: The maximum score is 45 points, with each correct answer worth 01 point.

Article 45. Conditions for Passing

A candidate is recognized as passing if they meet the following conditions:

1. For the written essay exam:
   • The exam has a total score of at least 06 points after deducting points for any violations during the examination (if any);
   • No answer has a score less than 1/2 of the score specified in Clause 3, Article 43 of this Circular.
2. For the multiple-choice test:
   • The exam has a total score of at least 40 points after deducting points for any violations during the examination (if any);
   • The general knowledge part has a score of at least 27 points;
   • The specialized knowledge part has a score of at least 13 points.

Article 46. Point Deduction for Violations in the Railway Safety Document

A candidate who violates the examination regulations will be reported and have points deducted as follows:

1. Deduction of 25% of the total score of the exam if it is a written essay exam.
2. Deduction of 10% of the total score of the exam if it is a multiple-choice test.

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SECTION 2. PRACTICAL MACHINE INSPECTION EXAMINATION ON NATIONAL RAILWAYS, DEDICATED RAILWAYS, AND ENTERPRISE’S PRIVATE RAILWAYS

Article 47. Examination Content in the Railway Safety Document

1. Content of the practical machine inspection examination:
   • To conduct a comprehensive and complete inspection of all parts and details of the vehicle within the specified time, following the correct procedures, sequence, and posture to ensure occupational safety and without damaging any details or parts of the vehicle;
   • To detect technical faults (“pans”) created by the Examination Team in the vehicle’s parts, including: 03 “pans” in the running gear, engine (or braking system), and electrical system in a cold state (before starting) and 02 “pans” in the braking system (or engine) and electrical system in a hot state (after starting).
2. Examination time: Within 90 minutes, the candidate must perform the content specified in Clause 1 of this Article.

Article 48. Examination Score in the Railway Safety Document

1. The maximum score for the practical machine inspection examination is 100 points and is regulated as follows:
   • Ensuring correct time and inspection technique: Maximum 50 points;
   • Each “pan” correctly detected and resolved: Maximum 10 points.
2. Point deduction for violations:
   • Exceeding the specified time within 20 minutes: 02 points deducted for each minute;
   • Failing to complete the machine inspection procedures as required: 05 points deducted;
   • Causing a minor workplace accident: 05 points deducted;
   • Incorrect inspection sequence or posture: 01 point deducted for each violation;
   • Missing a detail or part during inspection: 01 point deducted for each missed detail or part;
   • Damaging a detail not requiring replacement: 5.0 points deducted for each damaged detail.

Article 49. Conditions for Passing

A candidate is recognized as passing when they achieve a minimum of 60 points, which must include:

1. Detecting and correctly resolving at least 03 “pans”, including at least 01 hot “pan”;
2. Not committing any of the disqualifying errors specified in Clause 2, Article 33 of this Circular.

Article 50. Examination Result Evaluation Sheet

The results of the practical machine inspection examination are recorded on the Practical Machine Inspection Examination Result Evaluation Sheet using the form specified in Appendix IX issued with this Circular.

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SECTION 3. PRACTICAL DRIVING EXAMINATION ON NATIONAL AND DEDICATED RAILWAYS

Article 51. Examination Vehicle and Distance

1. The examination vehicle must meet the requirements in Clause 3, Article 31 of this Circular and the following requirements:
   • For all types of locomotives and multiple units: Must pull a passenger or freight train;
   • For specialized railway motive power vehicles: If there are wagons or trailers, they must also be pulled.
2. Examination distance:
   • The candidate will drive the train for at least three (03) consecutive block sections, according to the time specified in the train schedule and the speed limits in the current speed orders and warnings. The first block section is for a trial run, and the next two (02) block sections are used to evaluate the practical driving performance.

Article 52. Examination Content in the Railway Safety Document

1. Preparation: The candidate must check for the completeness of the required tools and necessary train running documents.
2. Reporting and call-and-response procedures: The candidate must fully perform the reporting and call-and-response procedures as required.
3. Train stopping skills: The candidate must stop the train 02 times. The stopping position is determined by aligning the center of the driver’s seat, perpendicular to the track centerline, with a standard marker specified in the examination paper. The allowed deviation in the stopping position is as follows:
   • For specialized railway motive power vehicles: Not more than 03 meters before or 01 meter past the standard marker;
   • For passenger trains: Not more than 06 meters before or 02 meters past the standard marker;
   • For freight trains: Not more than 08 meters before or 04 meters past the standard marker.
4. Driving skills: The candidate must fully comply with all required technical requirements, drive the train according to the time specified in the train schedule, and adhere to the current speed orders and warnings.
5. Braking skills: The candidate must fully comply with all required technical requirements.

Article 53. Examination Score in the Railway Safety Document

The maximum score for the practical driving examination is 100 points and is regulated as follows:

1. Preparation: Maximum 10 points.
2. Reporting and call-and-response procedures: Maximum 20 points.
3. Train stopping skills: Maximum 20 points.
4. Driving skills: Maximum 30 points, including:
   • Block section running time: Maximum 10 points. If there is a slow running section, the examiner must inform the candidate and add the technical time for that slow section;
   • Full compliance with required technical requirements: Maximum 20 points.
5. Braking skills: Maximum 20 points.

Article 54. Point Deduction for Violations in the Railway Safety Document

A candidate will have points deducted in the following cases:

1. Preparation: After inspection, if tools or train running documents are still missing, 01 point is deducted for each missing item.
2. Reporting, call-and-response: Missing or incorrect reports or call-and-responses result in a deduction of 03 points each time.
3. Train stopping skills: For each meter stopped before the allowed range, 01 point is deducted. For each meter stopped beyond the allowed range, 03 points are deducted.
4. Driving skills:
   • If the driving time in each block section differs from the schedule: 03 points are deducted for each minute of difference;
   • Violation of driving skills regulations: 02 points are deducted for each violation.
5. Braking skills: 02 points are deducted for each violation.

Article 55. Conditions for Passing in the Railway Safety Document

A candidate is recognized as passing when they achieve a minimum of 60 points, where:

1. No section has more than 1/2 of its total possible points, as specified in Article 53 of this Circular, deducted.
2. No disqualifying errors as specified in Clause 3, Article 33 of this Circular are committed.

Article 56. Examination Result Evaluation Sheet in the Railway Safety Document

The results of the practical driving examination are recorded on the Practical Driving Examination Result Evaluation Sheet using the form specified in Appendix X issued with this Circular.

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SECTION 4. PRACTICAL DRIVING EXAMINATION ON AN ENTERPRISE’S PRIVATE RAILWAY, WITHIN THE URBAN RAILWAY INSPECTION WORKSHOP (DEPOT)

Article 57. Examination Vehicle and Distance

1. The examination vehicle must meet the requirements in Clause 3, Article 31 of this Circular.
2. The candidate will drive the train for at least 05 consecutive shunting moves, adhering to the speed limits and current warnings, to evaluate their practical driving performance, and at the speed specified in the national technical regulations on urban railway operation and maintenance.

Article 58. Examination Content in the Railway Safety Document

1. Preparation: The candidate must check for the completeness of the required tools and necessary train running documents.
2. Reporting and call-and-response procedures: The candidate must fully perform the reporting and call-and-response procedures as required.
3. Train stopping skills: During shunting, in addition to stopping the train for wagon coupling, the candidate must stop the train at least 03 times as requested by the Examination Team. The stopping position is determined by aligning the center of the driver’s seat, perpendicular to the track centerline, with a standard marker specified in the examination paper. The allowed deviation in the stopping position is not more than 02 meters before or 01 meter past the standard marker.
4. Driving skills: The candidate must fully comply with all required technical requirements, drive the train (shunting consist) at the speed specified in the national technical regulations on railway operation, and adhere to the current speed orders and warnings.
5. Braking skills: The candidate must fully comply with all required technical requirements.

Article 59. Examination Score in the Railway Safety Document

The maximum score for the practical driving examination is 100 points and is regulated as follows:

1. Preparation: Maximum 10 points.
2. Reporting and call-and-response procedures: Maximum 20 points.
3. Train stopping skills: Maximum 20 points.
4. Driving skills: Maximum 30 points, including:
   • Adhering to the specified shunting speed: Maximum 10 points;
   • Full compliance with required technical requirements: Maximum 20 points.
5. Braking skills: Maximum 20 points.

Article 60. Point Deduction for Violations in the Railway Safety Document

A candidate will have points deducted in the following cases:

1. Preparation: After inspection, if tools or train running documents are still missing, 01 point is deducted for each missing item;
2. Reporting, call-and-response: Missing or incorrect reports or call-and-responses result in a deduction of 03 points each time.
3. Train stopping skills: For each meter stopped before the allowed range, 01 point is deducted. For each meter stopped beyond the allowed range, 03 points are deducted.
4. Driving skills:
   • Violation of shunting speed regulations: 02 points are deducted for every 01 km/h over the speed limit;
   • Violation of driving skills regulations: 02 points are deducted for each violation.
5. Braking skills: 02 points are deducted for each violation.

Article 61. Conditions for Passing

1. A candidate is recognized as passing when they achieve a minimum of 60 points, with no section having more than 1/2 of its total possible points, as specified in Article 59 of this Circular, deducted.
2. No disqualifying errors as specified in Clause 3, Article 33 of this Circular are committed.

Article 62. Examination Result Evaluation Sheet

The results of the practical driving examination are recorded on the Practical Driving Examination Result Evaluation Sheet using the form specified in Appendix XI issued with this Circular.

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SECTION 5. PRACTICAL DRIVING EXAMINATION ON URBAN RAILWAYS

Article 63. Examination Vehicle and Distance

1. Examination vehicle: The examination vehicle must meet the requirements in Clause 3, Article 31 of this Circular and the following requirements:
   • For all types of electric trains and diesel locomotives: Must pull an urban railway passenger train;
   • For specialized railway motive power vehicles: If there are wagons or trailers, they must also be pulled.
2. Examination distance:
   • The candidate will drive the train for at least 11 consecutive block sections, according to the time specified in the train schedule and the speed limits in the current speed orders and warnings. The first block section is for a trial run, and the subsequent block sections are used to evaluate practical driving skills;
   • For lines and trains equipped with automatic train operation (ATO), in the first block section, the ATO device will be set to ON; in the remaining block sections, the ATO device will be set to OFF.

Article 64. Examination Content in the Railway Safety Document

1. Preparation, reporting, call-and-response, and signal confirmation: The candidate must check for the completeness of necessary tools and documents and perform reporting, call-and-response, and signal confirmation as required.
2. Visual distance estimation skills: Conduct visual distance estimation at medium range (100 to 300 meters) and long range (301 to 600 meters), once for each range. This content is performed on the test track.
3. Train stopping skills: The candidate must stop the train 10 times. The stopping position is determined by a standard stopping marker specified in the examination paper. The allowed deviation in the stopping position is as follows:
   • For stations without platform screen doors: ± 1.0 meter;
   • For stations with platform screen doors: ± 0.5 meter.
4. Driving skills: The candidate must fully comply with all required technical requirements, drive the train according to the time specified in the train schedule, and adhere to the current speed regulations and warnings.
5. Automatic brake control skills: The candidate must fully comply with all required technical requirements and stop the train smoothly.

Article 65. Examination Score in the Railway Safety Document

The maximum score for the practical driving examination is 100 points for each content area specified in Clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 of Article 64 of this Circular.

Article 66. Point Deduction for Violations in the Railway Safety Document

A candidate will have points deducted in the following cases:

1. Preparation, reporting, call-and-response, and signal confirmation:
   • Preparation: After inspection, if tools or necessary documents for train operation are still missing, 01 point is deducted for each missing item;
   • Reporting, call-and-response, and signal confirmation: Call-and-response must be performed according to the urban railway operation rules. 05 points are deducted for each failure to perform. If a signal is not confirmed, the examination will be stopped.
2. Visual distance estimation skills: An error of 10 meters or less between the estimated and actual distance will not result in a point deduction. For medium distances, 05 points are deducted for every 10 meters beyond the allowed error. For long distances, 03 points are deducted for every 10 meters beyond the allowed error.
3. Train stopping skills:
   • Stopping the train within the allowed range specified in Clause 3, Article 64 of this Circular will not result in a point deduction;
   • For every 0.5 meters the train stops before the standard marker outside the allowed range, 03 points are deducted;
   • For every 0.5 meters the train stops past the standard marker outside the allowed range, 05 points are deducted;
   • If the train stops past a stop sign or signal, the examination will be stopped.
4. Driving skills:
   • Running time: The train must arrive at the station no more than 10 seconds early or late compared to the schedule. 0.5 points are deducted for each second of early or late arrival beyond this limit. If the train is early or late by two minutes or more, the examination will be stopped;
   • Throttle control skills: Incorrectly starting the train or violating operating procedures will result in a deduction of 01 point each time;
   • Speed control skills: The speedometer in the cab will be covered, and a speed measurement device will be used as a standard to test the driver’s observation and speed judgment skills. An error of ± 5 km/h will not result in a point deduction. For each km/h beyond this limit, 03 points are deducted. Two simulated speed reduction points will be set up, and the actual speed of the train will be measured. If the speed is up to 03 km/h below the specified speed, no points are deducted. For each km/h below the specified speed by 3.1 km/h or more, 03 points are deducted. For each km/h over the specified speed, 05 points are deducted. If the speed exceeds the line’s speed limit, the examination will be stopped.
5. Automatic brake control skills:
   • When entering a station, the automatic brake must be used to stop the train smoothly. The level of smoothness is measured by a vibration meter. A stop at level 2 will not result in a point deduction. Level 3 will result in a deduction of 03 points, levels 4 and 5 will result in a deduction of 07 points, and a level above 5 will result in a deduction of 15 points;
   • Incorrect use of the automatic brake will result in a deduction of 03 points each time. If the emergency brake is used without reason, the examination will be stopped.

Article 67. Conditions for Passing in the Railway Safety Document

1. A candidate is recognized as passing when they achieve a minimum of 60 points for each content area specified in Article 64 of this Circular.
2. No disqualifying errors as specified in Clause 3, Article 33 of this Circular are committed.

Article 68. Examination Result Evaluation Sheet in the Railway Safety Document

The results of the practical driving skills examination are recorded on the Practical Driving Examination Result Evaluation Sheet using the form specified in Appendix XII issued with this Circular.

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SECTION 6. PRACTICAL EXAMINATION ON PRE-OPERATION TECHNICAL CHECKS, INCIDENT HANDLING, AND EMERGENCY SITUATIONS FOR DRIVERS ON URBAN RAILWAYS, WITHIN THE URBAN RAILWAY INSPECTION WORKSHOP (DEPOT)

Article 69. Examination Content in the Railway Safety Document

1. The Examination Team will create technical faults (“pans”) in the vehicle’s parts according to the exam’s content, including:
   • Creating 03 “pans” in the running gear, automatic braking system, electrical system, train protection equipment, and automatic train stop equipment in a cold state (before starting);
   • Creating 02 “pans” in the running gear, automatic braking system, electrical system, train protection equipment, and automatic train stop equipment in a hot state (when started).
2. During the examination time specified in the exam paper, the candidate must perform checks, detect, and resolve the “pans” as required.
3. The Examination Team will select 01 simulated emergency situation during train operation and require the candidate to implement emergency handling measures as regulated.

Article 70. Examination Score in the Railway Safety Document

The maximum score for the practical examination on pre-operation technical checks, handling “pans,” and emergency situations is 100 points and is regulated as follows:

1. Ensuring correct time and inspection procedures: Maximum 25 points.
2. Each “pan” correctly detected and resolved: Maximum 10 points.
3. Handling emergency situations: Maximum 25 points.
4. The time for pre-operation technical checks, incident handling, and emergency situations will be based on the type of train and line and will be specifically regulated by the urban railway management and operation enterprise.

Article 71. Point Deduction for Violations in the Railway Safety Document

A candidate will have points deducted in the following cases:

1. Exceeding the specified time within 10 minutes: 01 point deducted for each minute; if more than 10 minutes, the examination will be stopped.
2. Failing to follow the correct operating procedures as required: 03 points deducted.
3. Causing a workplace accident that does not require the Examination Council to stop the examination for resolution: 03 points deducted.
4. Incorrect inspection sequence or posture: 01 point deducted for each violation.
5. Missing a detail or part during inspection: 01 point deducted for each missed detail or part.
6. Damaging a detail not requiring replacement: 03 points deducted for each damaged detail.
7. Providing incorrect handling measures or communication content when dealing with an emergency situation: 03 points deducted each time.

Article 72. Conditions for Passing in the Railway Safety Document

A candidate is recognized as passing when they achieve a minimum of 60 points, which must include:

1. Detecting and correctly resolving at least 03 “pans”, including at least 01 “pan” in a hot state.

2. Not committing any of the disqualifying errors specified in Clause 2, Article 33 of this Circular.

Article 73. Examination Result Evaluation Sheet in the Railway Safety Document

The results of the practical examination on pre-operation technical checks, incident handling, and emergency situations are recorded on the Evaluation Sheet for Practical Examination on Pre-operation Technical Checks, Incident Handling, and Emergency Situations using the form specified in Appendix XIII issued with this Circular.

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PART VI: NATIONAL TECHNICAL REGULATION ON RAILWAY TRAFFIC SIGNALS 06:2018//BGTVT

SECTION 1. SIGNALS, RAILWAY TRAFFIC RULES

Article 37. Railway Traffic Signals in the Railway Safety Document

1. The railway traffic signal system includes commands from train control personnel, on-board signals and ground signals, signs, warning detonators, and flares. The indication of a signal is a command and condition for train running, shunting, and stopping.
2. The railway traffic signal system must be complete, accurate, clear, ensure safety, and enhance train operation efficiency.
3. Railway employees and traffic participants must comply with railway traffic signals.
4. The Minister of Transport shall provide detailed regulations on railway traffic signals.

Article 38. Railway Traffic Rules in the Railway Safety Document

1. Railway traffic rules include regulations on train command, train formation, shunting, train running, train passing, train overtaking, stopping, and reversing.
2. Regulations on train command:
   • Train operations in each section are commanded by only one line train dispatcher. Train running commands must be executed under the command of the line train dispatcher. Station train dispatchers, station duty officers, train masters, and train drivers must absolutely obey the commands of the line train dispatcher;
   • Within a railway station, the station train dispatcher or station duty officer is the train commander. The train master and train driver must obey the commands of the train commander or the indication of signals;
   • On the train, the train master is the highest commander to ensure safe train operation; On trains without a train master, light engines, and urban railway trains, the train driver is the highest commander to ensure safe train operation.
3. Regulations on train formation:
   • Train formation must comply with railway standards and technical regulations;
   • Wagons must meet safety standards and technical regulations before being coupled.
4. Regulations on shunting:
   • Shunting is the movement of locomotives and wagons from one position to another within a railway station or block section. Shunting must be carried out according to the plan of the station duty officer;
   • During shunting, the train driver must follow the directions of the shunting master.
5. Regulations on train running:
   • When running a train, the train driver must comply with the following regulations:
     • Control the train to depart from a station, pass through a station, stop, pass, and overtake at a station according to the commands of the station duty officer.
     • Is only permitted to operate the train into a block section with a running token.
     • Is only permitted to operate the train into or through a station according to color light signals, semaphore signals, and signals from the station duty officer.
     • Control the train’s speed according to the regulations in Article 42 of this Law.
     • During train operation, the train driver and assistant driver on duty must not leave their work positions;
   • Passenger trains are only allowed to run when all passenger carriage doors are closed. Passenger carriage doors may only be opened when the train has come to a complete stop at a railway station.
6. Regulations on passing and overtaking trains:
   • Passing and overtaking trains must be performed at a railway station;
   • The train driver performs passing and overtaking on national and dedicated railways according to the commands of the station duty officer; on urban railways according to the commands of the urban railway train dispatcher.
7. Regulations on stopping and reversing trains:
   • The train driver must stop the train upon seeing a stop signal; upon detecting a situation that threatens train safety or receiving an emergency stop signal, the driver is permitted to perform an emergency stop or reversal. In the case of an emergency stop or reversal, the train master and train driver are responsible for notifying the station as required.
8. The Minister of Transport shall provide detailed regulations for this Article.

Article 39. Traffic at Level Crossings, Shared Bridges, and in Tunnels

1. At level crossings and shared bridges, railway transport vehicles have the right of way.
2. Train drivers must sound the horn before entering a level crossing, shared bridge, or tunnel; they must turn on the headlights when traveling in a tunnel.
3. Road traffic participants, when crossing a level crossing or shared bridge, must comply with the provisions of the Road Traffic Law and this Law.
4. At guarded level crossings and shared bridges, if the signal lights are not working or are giving an incorrect indication, or if the road barrier is broken, the level crossing guard or shared bridge guard must direct traffic.

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SECTION 2. ENSURING ORDER AND SAFETY IN RAILWAY TRANSPORT

Article 40. Activities to Ensure Order and Safety in Railway Transport

1. Activities to ensure order and safety in railway transport include:
   • Ensuring the safety of people, vehicles, and property of organizations and individuals in railway transport activities;
   • Ensuring centralized and unified management of transport activities on the railway;
   • Preventing, stopping, and combating acts of sabotage against railway infrastructure and violations of the railway safety corridor;
   • Measures to prevent traffic accidents on railways and at level crossings between railways and roads.
2. Organizations and individuals must comply with the laws on ensuring order and safety in railway transport.
3. Violations of order and safety in railway transport must be detected promptly and handled strictly and in accordance with the law.
4. Organizations and individuals involved in railway transport activities are responsible for ensuring order and safety in railway transport. The Police and local authorities at all levels where the railway passes, within their duties and powers, are responsible for ensuring security, order, and safety in railway transport. Agencies and organizations are responsible for coordinating activities to ensure order and safety in railway transport.

Article 41. Management of Railway Transport in the Railway Safety Document

1. The management of railway transport must adhere to the following principles:
   • Centralized and unified; compliance with the published train schedule;
   • Ensuring safe and smooth railway transport in accordance with the train schedule;
   • Equality among railway transport business enterprises.
2. The management of railway transport includes the following contents:
   • Creating, allocating, and publishing the train schedule;
   • Organizing train operations in a unified, centralized manner, ensuring safety and smoothness in accordance with the published train schedule, regulations on railway traffic signals, railway traffic rules, and train running commands;
   • Commanding the handling of urgent or unusual incidents on the railway;
   • Receiving and summarizing information related to the management of railway transport;
   • Coordinating the management of railway transport with international railway organizations;
   • Archiving data related to management work as prescribed by law.
3. The Minister of Transport shall regulate the management of transport on national and dedicated railways.
4. The Provincial People’s Committee shall regulate the management of transport on urban railways.

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SECTION 3. Decree 65/2018/ND-CP dated May 12, 2018, Detailing the Implementation of a Number of Articles of the Railway Lawt

Article 5. Regulations on Locations Dangerous to Railway Traffic Safety

1. Locations dangerous to railway traffic safety include:
   • Places where railway traffic accidents frequently occur (hereinafter referred to as railway traffic accident black spots);
   • Places where railway traffic accidents may occur (hereinafter referred to as potential railway traffic accident spots).
2. A dangerous level crossing is a level crossing where traffic accidents frequently occur or are likely to occur in the level crossing area according to the criteria defined in Articles 6 and 7 of this Decree.

Article 6. Criteria for Identifying Railway Traffic Accident Black Spots

A railway traffic accident black spot is identified based on the number and severity of damage from railway traffic accidents that have occurred within 12 months from the time of the most recent accident in the following cases:

1. A location where one or more very serious accidents have occurred.
2. A location where two or more serious accidents have occurred.
3. A location where three or more minor accidents have occurred.

Article 7. Criteria for Identifying Potential Railway Traffic Accident Spots

A potential railway traffic accident spot is identified based on the current state of the railway infrastructure, the railway safety corridor, the number and severity of damage from railway traffic accidents that have occurred within 12 months from the time of the most recent accident, in the following cases:

1. At least one accident with fatalities or at least two accidents with only injuries have occurred, but not to the extent of being identified as a railway traffic accident black spot.
2. The current state of the infrastructure, railway safety corridor, and traffic organization have elements that compromise railway traffic safety, including:
   • Limited visibility for vehicle drivers;
   • A level crossing that does not meet technical requirements, or the distance between level crossings is not in accordance with the regulations of the Minister of Transport;
   • Violation of the railway safety corridor or passing through a densely populated area;
   • An area with many unofficial crossings over the railway and other locations with potential safety risks.

Article 8. Management of Locations Dangerous to Railway Traffic Safety

1. The Provincial People’s Committee where the dangerous railway traffic safety location is situated is responsible for:
   • Presiding over the organization of monitoring, analysis, and creation of a list and roadmap for elimination, and implementing measures to ensure railway traffic safety at dangerous locations on national and dedicated railways within their management scope;
   • Organizing the management of dangerous railway traffic safety locations as specified in point a, Clause 1 of this Article.
2. The state management agency for railway transport is responsible for:
   • Coordinating with the Provincial People’s Committee to implement the content specified in point a, Clause 1 of this Article on national railways;
   • Inspecting and proposing to the Ministry of Transport measures to ensure railway traffic safety at dangerous level crossings on national railways; proposing to the Provincial People’s Committee measures to ensure railway traffic safety at the remaining dangerous locations on national railways;
   • Inspecting and directing the national railway infrastructure business enterprise to implement the regulations in Clause 3 of this Article.
3. The railway infrastructure business enterprise is responsible for:
   • Presiding over and coordinating with People’s Committees at all levels to create a list, roadmap, and implement measures to ensure safety at dangerous railway traffic locations on national railways when assigned, leased, or transferred;
   • Managing records, inspecting, and updating dangerous railway traffic safety locations on national railways for management purposes;
   • Proposing to the state management agency for railway transport measures to ensure railway traffic safety at dangerous locations on national railways.
4. The owner of the dedicated railway is responsible for:
   • Presiding over and coordinating with People’s Committees at all levels to create a list, roadmap, and implement measures to ensure safety at dangerous railway traffic locations on the dedicated railway;
   • Managing records, inspecting, and updating dangerous railway traffic safety locations on the dedicated railway for management purposes.

Article 9. Implementation of Measures to Ensure Traffic Safety at Dangerous Locations

In addition to complying with the provisions of the Railway Law and other relevant laws, organizations and individuals must implement measures to ensure traffic safety at dangerous locations, including:

1. The Provincial People’s Committee shall preside over the implementation of the following measures to ensure railway traffic safety at locations dangerous to railway traffic safety:
   • Organize traffic in the area of the dangerous location;
   • Clear the railway and road safety corridors and implement measures to ensure traffic safety in the area under their management;
   • Implement measures to immediately address railway traffic accident black spots to prevent or minimize railway traffic accidents at these locations;
   • Organize the implementation of reducing or eliminating dangerous locations for railway traffic safety, except for the cases specified in points a and b of Clause 4 of this Article, or eliminating potential accident spots (in order of priority for potential accident spots);
   • In cases where the measures specified in points a, b, c, and d of this Clause cannot be implemented, a plan for guard posts, facilities for guard rooms, and guarding at unofficial crossings identified as dangerous locations for railway traffic safety must be developed and implemented immediately; staff who have been professionally trained must be assigned to guard and man the posts at unofficial crossings identified as black spots or potential railway traffic accident spots before organizing cảnh giới.
2. The state management agency for railway transport:
   • Shall coordinate with People’s Committees at all levels and railway infrastructure business enterprises to implement the content specified in points b, c, and d of Clause 1 of this Article at locations dangerous to railway traffic safety on national railways;
   • Shall coordinate with railway infrastructure business enterprises and People’s Committees at all levels to organize the implementation of reducing or eliminating level crossings that are dangerous locations for railway traffic safety on national railways; and to provide professional training for personnel arranged by the locality to guard and man posts at unofficial crossings that are dangerous locations for railway traffic safety on national railways.
   • The use of signals in the operation of railway vehicles is regulated in the National Technical Regulation QCVN 08:2018/BGTVT on Railway Operation, specifically as follows:
     • The indication of a signal is a command regarding the conditions for train running and shunting. All railway employees involved in train running and shunting must be familiar with the National Technical Regulation on railway traffic signals and must unconditionally obey the commands of the signals.
     • Signals used in the railway industry include visual signals and audible signals.
     • Visual signals include: daytime signals, nighttime signals, and day-and-night signals.

• • In case of bad weather during the day, such as fog, heavy rain, strong winds, etc., where the signaling distance of daytime signals is not guaranteed, nighttime signals must be used.
  • In tunnels, only nighttime signals or day-and-night signals are used. Audible signals are used both day and night.
  • The indication of signals must be clear, accurate, and timely as required.
  • When station departure, station arrival, yard departure, yard arrival, through-pass, and protection signals give an incorrect or unclear indication, they are to be considered as a “stop” signal.
  • It is not permitted for a train or locomotive to pass a “stop” signal (except in special cases specified in this Regulation and by the specific regulations of the railway infrastructure business enterprise or the owner of the dedicated railway in the Train Running and Shunting Procedures).
  • In bad weather such as fog, heavy rain, strong winds, etc., making it difficult to identify signals and when the track is not clear or is damaged, making it impossible to receive a train into the station or to allow a train to pass the protection point into the next section, warning detonators must be placed to supplement the station arrival signal, protection signal, or through-pass signal, regardless of day or night, if these signals do not have an advance warning signal.

The method of placing supplementary warning detonators is specified in the National Technical Regulation on railway traffic signals.

The reception of trains in railway traffic must meet the requirements specified in the National Technical Regulation QCVN 08:2018/BGTVT on Railway Operation, specifically as follows:

• After the adjacent station or siding has reported that the train has departed, the Station Duty Officer must promptly order the Pointsman or the centralized control station staff to prepare the track that the train will enter.
• The staff receiving the order must repeat the content of that order to the Station Duty Officer.
• Before receiving the train, the Station Duty Officer must check and confirm the following preparations:
  1. Shunting operations that could affect or obstruct the receiving track and the entry track have been suspended;
  2. The receiving track and the entry track are clear;
  3. All relevant points are in the correct position and locked.
• The Station Duty Officer is only permitted to clear or order the clearance of the home signal after having checked and confirmed that the preparations for the receiving track mentioned above have been fully completed.

The sequence and measures for preparing the receiving track by the Station Duty Officer, Pointsman, and centralized control station staff are specified by the railway infrastructure business enterprise or the owner of the dedicated railway in the Train Running and Shunting Procedures.

• When the home signal or yard arrival signal shows a stop aspect or the light is out, a calling-on signal may be used or a person may be appointed to guide the train into the station in the following special cases:

1. 1. The home signal or yard arrival signal is broken and cannot be cleared, or the signal light is out;
   2. The station does not yet have a home signal or has one but it is not yet in use, and a mobile signal is used as a substitute;
   3. The home signal or yard arrival signal is not interlocked with the points of the receiving track and cannot be cleared.

The measure for receiving a train into the station in the special cases mentioned above is specified by the railway infrastructure business enterprise or the owner of the dedicated railway in the Train Running and Shunting Procedures.

• In cases where there are no clear tracks left in the station and there is an order from the Train Dispatcher, a guide (a calling-on signal may not be used) may be appointed to receive the train onto an occupied track using shunting measures, after this train has stopped outside the closed home signal.

It is not permitted to receive international connecting trains, fast through passenger trains, and fast passenger trains onto an occupied track.

The measure for receiving a train onto an occupied track at stations with steep gradients where the train does not have to stop outside the home signal is specified by the railway infrastructure business enterprise or the owner of the dedicated railway in the Train Running and Shunting Procedures.

• It is not permitted to receive two trains into the station at the same time if:

1. 1. At the end of one receiving track, there is no separation device from the other receiving track (safety siding, derailer, or points that serve as a separation), unless permitted by the railway infrastructure business enterprise or the owner of the dedicated railway;
   2. One of the two trains is a through train according to the schedule, unless there is an order from the Train Dispatcher for the through train to stop at the station under the conditions specified in point a) of this section.
   3. The train driver is only permitted to pass a home signal or yard arrival signal at a stop aspect after having received a calling-on signal or a Permit to Enter Station form or a receiving signal from the guide, and must enter the station at a speed not exceeding 15 km/h, but must be especially vigilant and prepared to stop the train before any obstruction.

The Permit to Enter Station form is as per Form No. 05 in Appendix E issued with this Regulation.

The method of delivering the Permit to Enter Station form to the Train Driver and recording its content is specified by the railway infrastructure business enterprise or the owner of the dedicated railway in the Train Running and Shunting Procedures.

• At stations where it is not permitted to receive two trains at the same time, if two trains arrive at the station simultaneously, the train that is scheduled to run before the next one, or the train that would have difficulty restarting if stopped outside the home signal, or the train that should not be stopped outside the station, must be received first.

• A train arriving at a station must stop between the two clearance points of the receiving track. At stations with a starting signal, it must stop between the starting signal ahead and the clearance point behind.

If the rear of the train is still outside the clearance point: The Train Master and the Pointsman must give a stop signal on the adjacent track for protection as specified in the National Technical Regulation on railway traffic signals; For freight trains without a Train Master, the Pointsman must check and give a stop signal on the adjacent track for protection as specified in the National Technical Regulation on railway traffic signals.

• The home signal must be returned to danger immediately after the entire train has passed it or automatically returned to danger immediately after the first pair of wheels of the train has passed the signal in an automatic block section.

If the train is too long and the front of the train has reached the clearance point at the departure end of the station, but the rear of the train is still outside the home signal, the home signal must also be returned to danger.

The driver’s cab of a railway transport vehicle is regulated in the National Technical Regulation QCVN 15:2018/BGTVT on Technical Safety and Environmental Protection Requirements for Railway Transport Vehicles during Periodic Inspection, specifically as follows:

• The equipment in the driver’s cab must comply with the manufacturer’s or designer’s specifications;
• Doors and locking mechanisms must open and close smoothly and must not open on their own;
• The cab windows must be safety glass, free from cracks, and ensure a clear view for the driver;
• The anti-glare screen, driver’s cooling fan, and air conditioning system (if any) must be of the correct type, securely installed, and in normal working order;
• The lighting must be fully installed, of the correct type, and in normal working order;
• All gauges, instrument panel lights, and warning lights must be in normal working order. Specifically, the air pressure gauge must have a valid inspection stamp.
• The windshield wipers must be complete in number and in normal working order;
• The driver’s seat must be securely installed, and the seat adjustment mechanism (if any) must be functional.

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PART VII: SAFE OPERATION OF TRAINS AND ELECTRIC TRAINS

I. Occupational Safety and Health at Railway Stations and Depots

1. Guidance on Signs and Signals in the Railway Safety Document

Railway transport staff must be familiar with the indications of signs in their work area to perform their duties of ensuring train safety, passenger and goods safety, and occupational safety, specifically as follows:

• Signs and signals for train operation
  • Mobile stop signal: defines an area where trains are prohibited from entering, used in cases such as block section closures, protection of obstacles in the station, protection of wagons carrying dangerous goods; protection of a stopped train that has not cleared the fouling point, and protection of a train waiting to be broken up, depart, or undergoing technical inspection.
  • Fouling point marker: to determine the position where a stopped train must be clear of the fouling point. If a train has not cleared the fouling point, the pointsman on that side must protect the rear of thetrain.
• Signs and signals for passengers and freight
  • Signs, symbols, and labels on wagons carrying dangerous goods and special goods to implement shunting measures that ensure safety (Wagons carrying dangerous goods, flammable materials, explosives, radioactive substances).

• Signs, symbols, and labels indicating fragile, water-sensitive, do-not-stack-upside-down goods.

• Safety limit line.

 

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2. Safe Work and Occupational Hygiene Procedures

• Before starting work, one must master the operational sequence, clearly understand the occupational protection measures for the job, and be familiar with the characteristics, location, tools, and equipment that affect safety; regularly inspect equipment and protective gear.
• Before beginning a task, one must master the operational sequence and clearly understand the occupational protection measures for the job.
• When working, one must be familiar with the characteristics and location of tools and equipment that affect safety.
• When moving around and working, one must regularly inspect personal protective equipment, and use and maintain it carefully.
• The workplace must be clean and tidy; tools and equipment must be arranged neatly.
  • There must be sufficient work tools and clean drinking water.
  • After finishing a shift, do not go too far.

 

• Before starting a shift, one must have the necessary rest time as required.
• Do not doze off; personal work is prohibited while on duty.
• Wear neat and proper uniforms.
• If wearing shoes, tie the laces carefully; if wearing sandals, they must have secure straps that are properly fastened.
• It is forbidden to wear clogs, hard-soled studded shoes, or slippers while working.
• Must be in good health according to professional standards.
• Do not assign people with neurological diseases, heart conditions, limb disabilities, poor eyesight, or hearing impairment to tasks related to train operation.
• When crossing railway tracks with stationary wagons or trains, walk at a safe distance, look both ways on the tracks, and pay attention to moving locomotives or wagons on adjacent tracks.
• Only climb over a train when certain that it is not about to move or be shunted.
• It is forbidden to crawl under wagons or climb over the coupling between two wagons.
• Do not walk on the rails or along the railway tracks.
• If it is necessary to walk on the railway tracks, pay attention to locomotives and wagons on adjacent tracks, both in front and behind. When approaching points, pay attention to the switch blades, tie bars, signal control wires, fouling point markers, etc., to avoid accidents.
• In each production team, a person must be appointed as the daily occupational safety officer. The duties of the daily occupational safety officer are:
  • To urge workers in the team to comply with regulations on occupational safety, safety techniques, and production hygiene.
  • To urge the rational use and good maintenance of occupational protection equipment.
  • Before starting work, to urge the safety inspection of machinery, equipment, and occupational protection tools in their department; to request the direct supervisor to replace or repair them if they are damaged.
  • To remind workers in the team to comply with regulations on working hours, activities, and rest.
  • To urge workers to keep the workplace clean and to arrange tools and materials neatly.
  • To urge workers in the team to implement measures to improve working conditions.
  • To urge workers in the team to follow the correct production process.
  • To participate in the investigation of workplace accidents that occur in the team.
  • To recommend to the direct supervisor to commend and praise individuals with achievements or initiatives in occupational safety.
• Daily and weekly, when reviewing professional work, the implementation of occupational safety regulations must also be reviewed.
• When a workplace accident occurs, the leading officials and the daily occupational safety officer must organize a meeting for the staff and workers in the team to review and analyze the causes and to find preventive measures.
• Every piece of equipment and structure in the station must meet safety conditions. If a deficiency is found, the responsible department must be notified immediately for correction. While repairs are pending, necessary signals must be put in place.
• Shunting tracks and loading/unloading areas in stations with an electrical network must be equipped with adequate lighting.
• The drainage system in the station must be clean and drain well.
• The platform surface must be flat.
• Repair tools and materials must be stored neatly and cleaned up immediately after use. Goods in the freight yard must be orderly, and any scattered debris must be cleaned up to ensure safe passage.

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II. Safety at the Workshop

1. Safety Rules for Moving Around in the Railway Safety Document

• Only walk on designated pedestrian walkways.
• When going up and down stairs, hold on to the handrail.
• If there is an obstacle on the walkway, clear it immediately to ensure a clear path.
• Do not step over cutting machines, machine corners, materials, equipment, or designated transport routes.
• Do not enter areas where lifting or loading is in progress with a crane…
• It is essential to wear a hard hat when moving around under construction sites or operating machinery.

2. Safety Rules at the Workplace in the Railway Safety Document

• When working overhead, prohibit people from walking below; do not throw objects or tools down.
• The workplace must always be kept clean, with tools and materials arranged neatly.
• Follow all signs and necessary safety rules.

3. Safety Rules for Teamwork in the Railway Safety Document

• When working in a team, close coordination is required.
• Appoint a leader and work according to the leader’s signals.
• Use appropriate protective equipment before starting work.
• Thoroughly understand the work sequence and method, and proceed in the correct order.
• When changing shifts, hand over the work meticulously and clearly.
• Before operating equipment, pay attention to the people around you.

4. Safety Rules for Storing Materials in the Railway Safety Document

• Materials brought into the warehouse must be fully labeled and tracked with a form.
• Use shelves to save space.
• Use chocks and secure positioning when storing items that can roll… Rolled materials like paper or fabric rolls must be firmly wedged on both sides to prevent rolling.
• Store materials separately by type and in chronological order of arrival for convenient storage and use.
• Ensure adequate spacing between stacks of goods, between goods and walls, and from the ceiling to allow for safe storage and handling.
• Store toxic substances, flammable substances, easily combustible substances, acids, and various gas cylinders separately.

5. Safety Rules When Handling Hazardous Substances in the Railway Safety Document

• Hazardous substances must be classified, labeled, and stored in designated areas.
• Read labels carefully before use. Do not use chemicals with missing or no labels.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke in the workplace.
• Use personal protective equipment (gas masks, chemical-resistant suits, gloves…), and protective gear.
• Unauthorized personnel are not allowed to enter areas where chemicals are handled.
• Be extremely careful when using alkalis and acids.
• Wash hands thoroughly before eating or drinking.
• Safe work procedures; procedures for operating and handling incidents with assigned machinery and equipment
  • Safety regulations for electricity use.
  • Safety regulations for working at heights.
  • Safety regulations for repairing power lines and electrical tools.
  • Safety regulations for using work tools.
  • Safety regulations for operating electrical machinery.
  • Regulations for operating air compressors.
  • Safety regulations for using locomotive jacks.
  • Safety regulations for operating 5T to 25T electric overhead cranes.
  • Machine repair technicians.
  • Safety operating procedures for the fuel pump team.
  • Safety regulations in basic construction.
  • Safety regulations for repairing diesel locomotives in the workshop.

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III. Safety in Locomotive Repair Outside the Workshop in the Railway Safety Document

• A locomotive undergoing minor repairs should be parked on a stable track and not moved.
• If a newly operated locomotive needs repair, the driver must apply the handbrake. All control and electrical devices should be in a non-active position, protection signals must be set, and the wheels on both sides of the locomotive must be chocked.
• The repair technician should prepare all necessary tools based on the driver’s report. When moving to and from the locomotive, they must be mindful of their surroundings to avoid being hit by locomotives or wagons.
• Before repairing the locomotive, “Stop” signs must be hung on both sides. It is strictly forbidden to shunt locomotives or wagons onto the track of the locomotive under repair without permission from the repair technician or a responsible person.
• When disassembling, assembling, or climbing for repairs, be aware of slippery oil and grease to avoid slips and falls.
• For locomotives undergoing minor repairs at night, adequate lighting must be provided for the repair work.
• When a locomotive is being shunted, absolutely no repairs should be performed on it.
• Unauthorized personnel are not allowed to start the engine or use the switches on the locomotive’s control panel.
• When disassembling or assembling heavy parts, two or more people are required, and they must coordinate their actions with clear calls and responses.
• When using hand jacks, they must be placed on a flat surface with wooden blocks at the head of the jack, and there must be a supervisor.
• When repairs are complete and the engine needs to be started, the technician must carefully check the part they just repaired for any errors that could cause an accident. Only when it is confirmed to be safe can a request to start the engine be made. The driver must thoroughly inspect the locomotive according to procedure (if there is no driver, the operations technician is responsible). After confirming safety, everyone should be notified to stand clear before starting the engine. A person must be assigned to monitor the engine’s condition and report immediately if anything unusual is observed so the engine can be shut down.
• Before moving the locomotive, check that there are no obstacles in front of or behind the wheels, and verify that the braking system is working properly. Then, move the locomotive slowly.
• After repairs are complete, the area must be cleaned up to ensure safety and hygiene.
• Use all issued personal protective equipment. It is forbidden to wear slippers while working.

IV. Safety for the Diesel Locomotive Driving Crew in the Railway Safety Document

• Diesel locomotive drivers and assistant drivers must be trained and tested on relevant operating procedures, instructions, and commands related to train operation and pass the tests before being allowed to work on a locomotive.
• To ensure occupational safety when working on a locomotive, the driver and assistant driver should pay attention to the following:
  • Fully comply with the procedures when starting a shift.
  • Strictly forbidden to consume alcohol before starting a shift.
  • Must wear the full uniform as currently required and display their name badge.
  • When starting a shift, inspect the locomotive, repair tools, protection equipment (flags, lamps, chocks, detonators…), and fire prevention and extinguishing equipment.
  • Strictly adhere to operating procedures, technical safety, train safety, occupational safety, and fire prevention and explosion protection.
• When operating the locomotive on the line, the crew must strictly perform call-and-response, remain focused, and observe the tracks, bridges, and culverts to ensure safety and adhere to the train schedule.
  • When the train is running, do not stick your head or hands out. It is strictly forbidden to jump from the train to prevent accidents.
  • If you need to go out into the engine compartment, walk steadily and hold on to the handrails to prevent slips and falls.
  • Unauthorized personnel are strictly forbidden on the locomotive. It is forbidden to start the engine without authorization. Trainee drivers with a permit must be directly supervised and guided by the driver on the same crew.
  • Promptly detect any fuel leaks and take corrective measures to prevent fire and explosion.
  • Do not leave the locomotive without authorization.
  • The assistant driver must absolutely obey the driver’s instructions. In the event of a workplace accident, the driver is primarily responsible.
  • Do not engage in horseplay that could harm vehicles or people along the railway.
  • Pay attention to safety when catching and releasing line tokens.
• If an issue occurs on the line that cannot be resolved, it must be promptly reported to the dispatcher (duty officer) of the enterprise for a solution.
  • All negative behaviors such as giving away or selling fuel, transporting goods, etc., are strictly prohibited.
  • Enhance mutual supervision to prevent workplace accidents for oneself and others.

V. Fire Safety for Locomotives in the Railway Safety Document

• There must always be a good fire extinguisher on the locomotive, stored in the designated place.
• Clean rags for wiping the engine must be kept neatly in the tool cabinet.
• Rags and clothing must not be hung or scattered in the driver’s cab, engine compartments, or on the inverter and regulator components.
• It is forbidden to light fires or throw away still-burning cigarettes or matches in the repair area, driver’s cab, or engine compartments.
• Exhaust pipes must be fitted with a good layer of insulation during repairs. If it gets chipped or broken during operation, it must be replaced immediately to prevent the risk of a fire if an oil pipe leaks and sprays onto the exhaust pipe.
• Do not let oil accumulate in the oil waste container or the oil waste compartment of the engine crankcase. At the end of each shift, the crew must drain all this accumulated oil and wipe the oil stains clean.
• The metal boxes containing electrical sensors and wire terminals must be kept tightly closed and clean, free of oil and grease.
• When using gasoline to wash the filter bowl, it is absolutely forbidden to smoke, be near any open flame, or allow anyone carrying a flame to pass by. After washing the filter bowl, the gasoline must be poured into a designated container; it is forbidden to bring it onto the engine for storage or to pour it on the ground or into a pit.
• When the engine is operating on the line, at each station, a person must be sent to check the engine compartments to watch for any newly started fires and extinguish them promptly.
• If a high-pressure pump or a high-pressure oil pipe cracks during operation, it must be wrapped with nylon to prevent the oil from spraying in a mist, which could easily cause a fire.
• The basic principles for ensuring safety in production:
  • One: You must understand the safe work procedures!
  • Two: You must strictly adhere to the safety procedures!
• Speak correctly, act correctly, react correctly.
• Before performing a task, think about the safest and most correct way for yourself and your colleagues to proceed!
• You must always remember: to protect your own life and health, you must never violate the procedures; those who violate the procedures will certainly be condemned and will be eliminated.
  • Three: Ask – if you are not sure!
• You must remember the principle: If you are not sure about the job, do not do it, but ask again carefully; you must practice the operation until you are proficient before you are allowed to do it.
  • Four: You must use appropriate safety equipment! Five: Always be vigilant while working!
• When working, you must always supervise each other.
• Procedures for handling incidents related to assigned tasks and jobs;
• When an incident is caused by machinery or materials, or is related to the assigned job, it is necessary to (shout loudly to) inform everyone.
• Use available means for rescue and first aid for victims.
• Notify the head of the department.
• Promptly rescue the victim, provide first aid, and transport them to the nearest medical facility.
• After the incident is over, the head of the department will hold a meeting to evaluate the incident and propose appropriate corrective measures.
• Secure the scene of the incident.
• Implement reporting procedures.
• Evacuation procedures in emergency situations.

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PART VIII: FURTHER REFERENCES

1. Group 3 Safety Training and Certification Services

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2. Group 3 Occupational Safety Test

• Group 3 Occupational Safety Multiple-Choice Test

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3. Price List for Occupational Safety Training Services

• View details

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4. Download Document

• DOWNLOAD THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY TRAINING DOCUMENT FOR WORKING IN THE RAILWAY INDUSTRY