The new Standard for Health Assessment of Rail Safety Workers has been approved by the Australian Transport Council, with the arrangement set to come into place by 1 July 2004.

Victoria and New South Wales have already introduced the new Standard. Victoria will slightly modify the arrangements it currently has in place to bring it in line with the national requirements.

“The decision by Transport Ministers is indicative of the desire of all parties to act in the best interests of the rail industry, its workers and the traveling public. It marks a watershed in the objective of the Federal, State and Territory governments to provide a consistent regulatory framework for the rail industry across Australia,” said National Transport Commission Chief Executive, Tony Wilson.

He said from the point of view of rail workers, it would ensure their health was maintained at a high level, that any medical conditions that arise were treated quickly and that in most cases they would be able to continue to work. Privacy and anti-discrimination provisions reflect current state and national requirements.

“Many of the health standards for rail safety workers have not been consistent and have not kept pace with modern medical knowledge or practice. Systems used for administering many health assessment programs have been inadequate.

“The new arrangements take into account the findings of rail crash investigations in recent years, including the initial findings of the Waterfall rail accident in January 2003,” said Mr. Wilson.

The new Standard is expected to lead to safer operations for the public, better health for workers, and a consistent set of requirements for rail operators. An information ‘toolkit’ has been prepared for state rail safety regulators and rail organisations should contact their local agency if they need more information. Copies of the two volumes of the Standard will be available from state rail safety regulators.