Specialized Competency: Rolling Stock Maintenance/ Philippine Railways Institute

Includes bibliographical references

To be a competent rolling stock maintenance personnel, it is not enough to simply know all the different rolling stock components, functions, maintenance procedures, and maintenance equipment; having a deep awareness and knowledge of safety needed for rolling stock maintenance is critical to ensure safety in an environment with various hazards.
The proper identification of these hazards and related risks when conducting rolling stock maintenance, as well as the implementation of the necessary controls and safety practices, can help prevent workplace accidents.
An appropriate mix of hazard controls and safety practices must be observed before, during, and after performing rolling stock maintenance activities. At the start of a shift, a toolbox meeting must be conducted to check, discuss, and confirm work and OSH matters, including the following: work instructions and assignments; required work permits, tools/equipment, and parts; workers' health and attire; communication protocols to be observed while working; and KYT. During the conduct of maintenance activities, safe working behavior such as proper demeanor; execution of established communication protocols; organization of work areas; compliance with proper work procedures; and practicing of safety precautions for specific hazards. After completing the assigned tasks, proper housekeeping, documentation, and incident reporting must be conducted must be observed.
Accidents and incidents in the past can strengthen safety policies, procedures, and controls if properly evaluated and addressed. These incidents magnify the need for improvements to better protect the workers' well-being and ensure the maximum availability and reliability of rolling stock being deployed for railway operations.