AS 7717 Signal Testing & Commissioning

The objective of this Standard is to provide a common framework for rail infrastructure managers (RIMs) to plan and execute the inspection, testing and commissioning of new and altered signalling infrastructure.

The concepts within this Standard are intended to be applied throughout any railway signalling project, both in the context of a railway signalling and train control system project, and during the operating life of the system.

This Standard defines requirements and recommendations to effectively plan, execute and finalize the testing and commissioning activities, but does not detail the methods by which those requirements may be fulfilled.

Signalling systems are critical for the safe movement of trains in medium to high traffic areas. They provide a safe means of ensuring separation between trains, as well as improving network capacity and efficiency. Therefore, signalling systems have to be carefully tested and commissioned to confirm the systems provide the safety and capability required. AS 7717 provides requirements and recommendations for the testing and commissioning of signalling systems prior to entering into service (Testing prior to commissioning is covered in AS 7716 Signalling Testing Processes).

The review of this standard has provided an opportunity to align with the National Transport Commission’s work on interoperability, specifically the introduction of ETCS. Whilst this revision does not provide specific information regarding testing and commissioning of ETCS, the Standard now recognizes the need for testing and commissioning of onboard and wayside systems. Other changes include:

• Greater alignment with AS 7716 Signalling Testing Processes.
• Alignment with current good practice in testing processes.
• Restructured to improve readability

AS 7717 provides testers and managers of signalling commissioning events a set of requirements and recommendations to ensure signalling systems function as required when introduced into service. Through implementation of this Standard nationally a harmonized approach can be achieved, improving safety at operational interfaces and providing greater workforce mobility.

AS 7717 assists in managing risks associated with insufficient testing and poor commissioning of signalling systems, including the failure of safe critical systems to function as required, such as level crossings, train detection systems, and lineside signalling systems. Planning and execution of commissioning events is also covered in detail.

Personnel involved in signalling system testing should review AS 7717 (and AS 7716) and assess their current testing and commissioning processes to ensure alignment. This includes any overarching testing processes, as well as work instructions, test report forms, commissioning plans and processes, and any other applicable documentation.

AS 7717 does not intend to cover site or equipment specific requirements, as these will change depending on individual RIM requirements. It is important that any site or equipment specific requirements not covered in AS 7717 are retained. This can be achieved through addition of an internal addendum covering specific requirements.

It is important that good change management processes are followed – AS 7474 can provide guidance if required. Any changes shall be risk assessed to ensure testing processes reduce risk so far as is reasonably practical (SFAIRP).

Any enquiries regarding requirements or recommendations stated in AS 7717 should be directed to ARISO for clarification.