TRACK ACCESS SAFETY TRAINING

Transit employees, contractors, consultants, and visitors requiring access to Valley Metro’s guideway, rail yard, or track zone must successfully complete the required Roadway Worker Protection (RWP) and Track Access training prior to entering these areas. RWP requirements apply to Valley Metro employees, contractors, oversight personnel, and escorted visitors whenever work activities have the potential to foul a track or impact train operations.

Individuals performing work along Valley Metro guideways are required to attend Valley Metro Track Access training and possess a valid Track Access identification credential when working in proximity to the Light Rail or Streetcar system.

Training Track Access Training is required for:

• Anyone working on the right-of-way or within three (3) feet of the rail guideway or rumble strip.
• Anyone working in the train yard, on a rail bridge, at a station platform, or performing boring and underground work.
• Anyone working within ten (10) feet of the Overhead Catenary System (OCS) or other electrical components.
• Anyone working in any structure or facility that can affect train service (e.g., substations, signal houses).
• Anyone responsible for requesting and submitting Track Access permits.

Training includes instruction on the RWP Manual, Track Access Guide, on-track safety roles including Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC), Watchperson/Lookout, Flagger, and Lone Worker, as well as redundant protection methods. Participants must demonstrate a thorough understanding of on-track safety rules, Operations Control Center (OCC) communication protocols, and permit and work request procedures before qualification is granted.

Valley Metro utilizes a tiered RWP training program that aligns qualification levels with the nature of work performed and the degree of on-track responsibility. Basic Track Access qualification is required for individuals working near the track zone, while additional certifications are required for RWICs, Lone Workers, Watchpersons/Lookouts, Flaggers, and roadway maintenance machine operators.

Valley Metro has implemented a two-tier Roadway Worker Protection training and qualification program consisting of Level 1 and Level 2.

Qualification Levels

Level 1

• Basic Track Access
• Watchperson
• Flagger

Level 2

• All Level 1
• Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC)
• Lone Worker

All Valley Metro employees, contracted staff, and any other entities requiring access to the guideway to perform their duties must complete the training appropriate to their assigned role. This requirement applies before individuals may:

• Perform roadway worker duties
• Oversee or supervise track access from the Operations Control Center (OCC)
• Operate vehicles, on-track equipment, or roadway maintenance machines

All escorted guests must be accompanied by qualified personnel and are required to wear a Class 2 high-visibility safety vest and sturdy, closed-toe shoes at all times. General contractors must qualify as either Level 1 or Level 2 prior to performing any work and must comply with SOP 100.08.

• Entry into the track zone or fouling of a track is prohibited without prior authorization from the OCC, a designated RWIC, and full compliance with the RWP Manual and Track Access Guide.
• Prior to the start of work, the RWIC must conduct a Job Safety Briefing, verify qualifications, confirm redundant protections, and ensure all personnel understand work limits, safe zones, speed restrictions, and emergency procedures.

Individuals who successfully complete the required training and assessments receive a Track Access or RWP qualification credential identifying their authorized access level and any specialized roles. Qualified roadway workers must carry proof of their RWP or Track Access credential while on duty and complete refresher or recurrent training in accordance with Valley Metro requirements.

• Training outlines the process for requesting authorization from the OCC, establishing working limits, and following the four-step workflow: Request, Protect, Work, and Restore.
• Participants receive instruction on completing Valley Metro work permits and access documentation, including project scope, location, schedule, crew composition, equipment, and lane or track closures.

• Prospective attendees may visit this page to review available training dates and register.
• Registration assistance or scheduling questions may be directed to the Right-of-Way Access Specialist at 602-652-5065.

Track Access Permits and Process Support:

• Phone: 602-652-5065
• Email: [email protected]

Utility, Boring, and Underground Work Coordination:

• Email: [email protected]

Safety Concerns and Reporting:

• Email: [email protected]

• Roadway Worker Protection Manual
• Track Access Guide