---
title: Automatic Train Protection
url: "https://www.systra.com/australia/project/automatic-train-protection/"
type: projects
date_published: 2022-10-05
date_modified: 2022-10-06
schema:
  @type: WebPage
language: en-US
word_count: 458
reading_time: 3 min
canonical: "https://www.systra.com/australia/project/automatic-train-protection/"
featured_image: "https://www.systra.com/australia/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2022/09/our-projects-automatic-train-protection-atp.png"
type-market:
  - Rail
type-service:
  - Operational Integration
---

# Automatic Train Protection

![Automatic Train Protection](https://www.systra.com/australia/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2022/09/our-projects-automatic-train-protection-atp.png)

**Following the Waterfall Rail Disaster in 2003, one of the key recommendations from the McInerney inquiry was the introduction of an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system.**

## Challenge

In Sydney an ETCS Level 1 Limited Supervision (LS) system was selected as a
transitional system between the existing fixed-block trackside signalling system
and the future adoption of ETCS Level 2.

In the Level 1 LS system a driver continues to observe lineside signals and
speed signs, and existing driver safety systems are maintained. The ATP system
uses fixed track mounted balises to provide Ceiling Speed Monitoring (CSM)
against permitted line speed, Target Speed Monitoring (TSM) for high risk speed
reductions, and Electronic Train Stops (ETS) for all signals not currently
protected by mechanical train stops.

As a transitional system, the ATP solution sought to retain existing driver
practices wherever possible, whilst providing safety benefits and enabling
future network performance improvements though the introduction of ETCS Level 2.
These goals present a number of human factors challenges, as many aspects of the
solution must be compatible with the different use cases associated with Level 1
LS and Level 2 Full Supervision.

![Train](https://www.systra.com/australia/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2022/05/train-1024x654.png)

## Approach

SYSTRA Human Factors (HF) personnel formed part of the TfNSW Operational
Readiness team to provide system level HF assurance and help prepare Sydney
Trains for the introduction of ETCS Level 1.

Working alongside SYSTRA ETCS Engineers, the human factors specialists gained an
in-depth understanding of the system architecture and functions. This knowledge
was used to conduct detailed analysis system functionality within the New South
Wales rail context, and to manage consistency in onboard solutions provided by
different ETCS suppliers.

SYSTRA human factors specialists provided input to the development of trackside
design principles and evaluated the impact on the driver and overall system
safety.

We completed a comprehensive analysis of onboard and trackside maintenance tasks
to identify potential human errors and inform design changes and procedural
controls. We also conducted Risk Based Training Needs Analysis (RBTNA) to
identify training needs and priorities for onboard and trackside maintainers.

SYSTRA developed human factors testing specifications and completed testing
activities to evaluate system performance, explore potential human factors
issues, and provide assurance against system requirements.

## Benefits

Working as part of a wider team of SYSTRA ETCS experts, our human factors
specialists gained a detailed technical understanding of the overall ETCS
solution. This enabled our team to complete complex analyses and achieve the
best possible outcome for our client.

SYSTRA personnel facilitated engagement with Sydney Trains maintenance
representatives to provide end-user input to maintenance human error
assessments, develop maintenance processes and procedures, and to design
training solutions. This enabled the smooth introduction of ETCS equipment for
maintenance personnel and an efficient risk based approach to training.