Shunter preparers

[francisoldfield]

Hi all

does anyone know what the duties of the above are at Southern?

For instance do they actually drive trains as there is a small amount of discussion both ways.

The job description does say

"Job Purpose:

Responsible for ensuring vehicles are shunted/driven and prepared for service in a safe manner."

any help is appreciated!

francis

 

[N Levers]

Looking at that role it says

Key Role Responsibilities and Accountabilities
Responsible for the safe movement of all rolling stock within the depot complex, in accordance with the depot protection system.
Ensure all tasks are performed in accordance with local instructions.
Ensure compliance to the requirement of the Depot Management System, Group Standards and any other documents relevant to the operation of the depot.
Ensure your personal safety and that of others at all times.
Prepare and dispose of trains for service as required.
Undertake shunt movements as published and directed by your manager.
Operate sanding and CET equipment as required.
Fill and replenish screen wash as necessary.

So i would guess yes

 

[francisoldfield]

see this is what i thought but a friend of mine seems to think that although the shunter preparers are trained to drive because they have to go on the mainline from Bognor station to the depot less than 1 minute, they are not allowed to do the driving

 

[driver9000]

A Shunter Driver/Driver operator or whatever the grade is called in other TOCs is not allowed to drive beyond the depot limits. They are not passed to drive on Network Rail infrastructure and are only allowed to drive around the depot shunting about the sidings and marshalling trains. Any movements on and off Network Rail lines would be done by a mainline driver.

 

[strange6]

A Shunter Driver/Driver operator or whatever the grade is called in other TOCs is not allowed to drive beyond the depot limits. They are not passed to drive on Network Rail infrastructure and are only allowed to drive around the depot shunting about the sidings and marshalling trains. Any movements on and off Network Rail lines would be done by a mainline driver.

Hence the big signs approaching exit mainline signals at Newton Heath depot: 'Driver operators must not go beyond this point'