L1-CHE-STD-043 v1 - Construction of Cable Routes

Engineering Standard – Signalling
L1-CHE-STD-043
STANDARD FOR CONSTRUCTION OF CABLE

ROUTE AND SIGNALLING CIVIL WORKS
Version: 1
ENGINEERING STANDARD
STANDARD FOR CONSTRUCTION OF CABLE ROUTE
AND SIGNALLING CIVIL WORKS
L1-CHE-STD-043 Version: 1 Effective from: 1st July 2018
Approval
Name Position Signature
Document
Louisa Waymouth Manager Standards
Endorser
Approving
Phil Ellingworth Chief Engineer
Manager
Amendment Record
Approval Date Version Description

Rebadge VRIOGS 012.2.1 Standard for Construction of Cable
20/06/2018 1 Route and Signalling Civil Works. No change to the technical
content.
Approving Manager: Chief Engineer Approval Date: 20/06/2018 Next Review Date: 20/06/2021
PRINTOUT MAY NOT BE UP-TO-DATE; REFER TO METRO INTRANET FOR THE LATEST VERSION Page 2 of 87
PREFACE
This Standard replaces VRIOGS 012.2.1 Standard for Construction of Cable Route
and Signalling Civil Works.
The contents of this Standard were prepared by the Victorian Rail Industry Operators Group
(VRIOG). This VRIOG Standard has been rebadged as an MTM document due to the retirement
of VRIOG Standards as of 30th June 2018.
This Standard will be managed under the Engineering Standards Development Procedure
(L1-CHE-PRO-032).
As documents are uncontrolled once printed, it is imperative to check the currency of
the Document on The Depot or the MTM’s Document Portal which is available
externally at https://documentportal.metrotrains.com.au.
All MTM Standards and Specifications are periodically reviewed, and new editions are published
which incorporate learnings and Technical Notes (formerly known as Design Practice Notes).
Technical Notes are issued between editions which correct any errors or ambiguities contained in
an MTM Standard/Specification. Standards and Specifications may also be withdrawn and/or
replaced.
In the event of conflicts or discrepancies between different types of technical documents, refer to
the order of precedence as defined in ‘Chief Engineer’s Guideline Engineering Standards
Listing’ (L1-CHE-GDL-005).
Note: Any clarification described in a Technical Note or Design Practice Note shall take
precedence over the impacted clause or clauses in the associated MTM Standard/Specification.
In the event a clause within a Standard/Specification is not achievable a waiver will need to
be raised, please refer to the ‘Engineering Waiver Procedure’ - L1-CHE-PRO-001.
Note: MTM does not have the authority to grant waivers on any Standards/Specifications or
clauses within a Standard/Specification which relate to Government Regulations or Legislation,
e.g. Disability Discrimination Act.
Referencing this document

Clauses and subclauses of this document should be referenced using the following format style
L1-CHE-XXX-YYY Clause Z.Z.Z. Referencing the VRIOGS document number is not required.
THIS PAGE IS INTENDED TO BE BLANK
Victorian Rail Industry Operators Group Standards
VRIOGS 012.2.1
Standard for Construction of Cable Route

and Signalling Civil Works
Revision A
Issue Date 07/09/2010

ii VRIOGS 012.2.1 REVISION A
VRIOGS 012.2.1 Standard for Construction of Cable Route and Signalling Civil Works
Revision A
Issue Date: 07/09/2010
APPROVAL STATUS
APPROVER STATUS DATE QUALIFICATIONS
Document Developer
VRIOG Steering Approved 07/09/2010

Committee
Accredited Rail Operator
Metropolitan Train
Intrastate Train
Interstate Train
Tram
VicTrack
For any queries please contact vriogs@transport.vic.gov.au.
NOTE: This document is controlled only when viewed on the DOT Engineering Standards website.
Any other copy of this document is uncontrolled, and the content may be inaccurate.
PURPOSE OF THE STANDARD
The Standard has been created through the collaboration of members of the Victorian Rail
Industry Operators’ Group (VRIOG) for the purpose of establishing standards which, if
implemented throughout the Victorian Rail Network, will facilitate the interoperability of
infrastructure.
The use of the Standard is not prescribed by law but, if adopted, conformity with the
provisions of the Standard is mandatory in order that the purpose of the Standard be
achieved.
PURPOSE OF THE STANDARD
The Standard is published by the Director of Public Transport for information purposes
only and does not amount to any kind of advice.
Each person is responsible for making his or her own assessment of all such information
and for verifying such information. The content of this publication is not a substitute for
professional advice.
The Director of Public Transport and VRIOG accept no liability for any loss or damage to
any person, howsoever caused, for information contained in this publication, or any
purported reliance thereon.
COPYRIGHT STATEMENT
© Director of Public Transport 2005.

This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in
accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act.
Where information or material is so used, it should be used accurately and the Standard
should be acknowledged as the source of the information.
iv VRIOGS 012.2.1 REVISION A
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1.0 CONVENTIONS 1
SECTION 2.0 DEFINITIONS 2
SECTION 3.0 SCOPE AND GENERAL 4
3.1 Scope 4
3.2 Application 4
3.3 Background 4
SECTION 4.0 CABLE ROUTE REQUIREMENTS 5
4.1 General 5
4.2 Underground Services of Other Authorities 6
4.3 Working Whilst Existing System is Operational 7
4.4 Cable Route Survey 7
4.5 Location of Cable Route 7
4.6 Cable Route Intersection with Access Roads 8
4.7 Types of Cable Route 8
4.8 Radius of Bends 9
4.9 Stability of Excavations 9
4.10 Programming of Works 10
4.11 Public Safety 10
4.12 Placement of Spoil 10
4.13 Blasting 10
SECTION 5.0 CABLE ROUTE MARKER POSTS, CABLE JOINT MARKER POSTS
AND EQUIPMENT PROTECTION RAIL POSTS 11
5.1 Equipment Protection Rail Posts 11
5.2 Cable Route Markers and Cable Joint Markers 11
SECTION 6.0 BURIED CABLE ROUTE (CABLE ROUTE TYPES 1, 2, 3, 4) 13
6.1 General 13
6.2 Depth of Cable Route 13
6.3 Protective Cover over Signalling and Communications Cables 13
6.4 PVC Cable Marker Tape in Trenches 13
6.5 Rock Areas 13
6.6 Cable and Conduit Ploughing 14
6.7 Buried Conduits 14
6.8 Capping of conduits 16
6.9 Method of joining conduits 16
6.10 Direction of laying conduits 16
6.11 Draw wires in conduits 16
6.12 Spare Buried Conduits 17
6.13 Conduits in Platforms and Other Paved Areas 17
6.14 Conduits in High Voltage Areas 18
6.15 Back Filling 18
6.16 Compaction 19
6.17 Buried Cable Routes through Water Courses 19
6.18 Cable Routes on Embankments 20
6.19 Cable Routes on Bridges and Viaducts 20
SECTION 7.0 GROUND LEVEL TROUGHING CABLE ROUTE (CABLE ROUTE
TYPE 5) 21
7.1 General 21
7.2 Troughing Route Capacity 22
7.3 Drainage 23
7.4 Lids or Cover 23
SECTION 8.0 GALVANISED STEEL TROUGHING (CABLE ROUTE TYPE 6) 24
8.1 General 24
8.2 Troughing on Bridges, Viaducts or in Tunnels 25
8.3 Wall Mounted Troughing 26
8.4 GST Over Culverts and Small Water Courses 26
8.5 Joining Sleeves 27
8.6 Fitting of Lids 27
VRIOGS 012.2.1 REVISION A v
8.7 Above Ground Troughing to Ground Level Troughing/Trenches/Pits 27
8.8 Above Ground Troughing Cable Entry/Exit to Trackside Equipment 28
8.9 Cabling Through High Voltage Areas 28
8.10 Arrangements at or near Overhead Wiring Structures 28
8.11 Troughing Route Capacity 28
8.12 Bends 29
8.13 Mounting Brackets and Fittings 29
8.14 Transition between GST/GLT/Buried Cable Route 29
8.15 Steel Troughing Arrangements at Entries to Equipment Boxes 29
SECTION 9.0 CABLE LADDER (CABLE ROUTE TYPES 7, 8, 9) 30
9.1 General 30
9.2 Cable Ladder Environment 30
9.3 Cable Ladder Capacity 30
9.4 Bends 30
9.5 Joints and Expansion Joints 31
9.6 Mounting Brackets and Fittings 31
9.7 Cable Ladder in Tunnels or Through Under-bridges 31
9.8 Transition between Cable Ladder/Cable Ladder/GST/GLT/Buried Route 32
9.9 Cable Ladder Arrangements at Connection to Local Cable Route and
Equipment 32
9.10 Cable Ladder Covers 32
SECTION 10.0 UNDER LINE AND UNDER ROAD CROSSINGS (CABLE ROUTE
TYPE 10) 33
10.1 General 33
10.2 Depth of ULX / URX 33
10.3 ULX or URX by Open Excavation 33
10.4 Under Line Crossings (ULX) 34
10.5 Under Road Crossings (URX) 34
SECTION 11.0 CABLE ROUTE WITH SHARED AND MIXED SERVICES (CABLE
ROUTE TYPE 11) 35
SECTION 12.0 CABLE ROUTE WITH SIGNALLING, COMMUNICATIONS AND
SUBSTATION/TRACTION SYSTEMS (CABLE ROUTE TYPE 12)36
SECTION 13.0 STEEL PIPE CABLE ROUTE (CABLE ROUTE TYPE 13) 37
SECTION 14.0 CABLE PITS, CABLE JOINTING PITS AND CABLE TURNING
CHAMBERS 38
14.1 Cable Pits and Chambers 38
14.2 Access into pits 39
14.3 Drainage of Pits 39
14.4 Types of Pits and Turning Chambers 40
14.5 Cast on Site type Pits 40
14.6 Pit and Chamber Covers and Collars: 40
14.7 Location of Cable Pits 41
14.8 Location of Cable Jointing Pits 42
14.9 Location of Cable Turning Chambers 42
14.10 Preferred Type Cable Pits 42
SECTION 15.0 CABLE ROUTE TO TRACKSIDE EQUIPMENT 43
15.1 Location of Equipment 43
15.2 Signals 43
15.3 Train Protection and Signal Enforcement 43
15.4 Points 43
15.5 Station Buildings, Platform Signals and Indicators 44
15.6 Boom Barriers and Level Crossing 44
15.7 Pedestrian Gates 44
15.8 Train Stabling Gates 44
15.9 Signal Post Mounted Telephones (SPT) 44
SECTION 16.0 SIGNAL MAST AND SIGNAL GANTRY FOUNDATIONS 45
16.1 Location of Signal Masts and Signal Gantry Foundations 45
16.2 Construction of Signal Mast Foundations 45
vi VRIOGS 012.2.1 REVISION A
16.3 Construction of Signal Gantry Foundations 46
16.4 Backfilling and Levelling Site 46
16.5 Handrails 46
16.6 Walkways 46
16.7 Foundations Affecting Track Drainage 46
16.8 Access to Signals and Gantries from Public Roads 46
SECTION 17.0 CONCRETE AND STABILISED SAND 47
17.1 General 47
17.2 Ready Mixed Concrete and Stabilised Sand 47
17.3 Site Mixed Concrete and Stabilised Sand 47
17.4 Concreting Reinforcing 47
17.5 Concreting Finishing 47
SECTION 18.0 EQUIPMENT HOUSING CIVIL WORKS 48
18.1 General 48
18.2 Equipment Boxes 48
18.3 Equipment Boxes on Raised Metal Platforms 49
18.4 Access to Equipment Boxes 49
18.5 Equipment Huts 49
18.6 Equipment Rooms 49
SECTION 19.0 COMMUNICATIONS CABLE CABINETS, ROOMS AND HUTS 50
19.1 General 50
SECTION 20.0 FOOTPATHS AND WALKWAYS 51
SECTION 21.0 PLATFORMS, STEPS, FENCING, GATES, LADDERS AND
RETAINING WALLS 52
21.1 General 52
21.2 Gates 52
21.3 Fencing 52
21.4 Steps, Ladders and Handrails 52
21.5 Modifications to Existing Fencing 53
21.6 Temporary Fences 53
21.7 Retaining walls 53
SECTION 22.0 TABLE OF FIGURES USED WITHIN THIS STANDARD 55
SECTION 23.0 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS 77
VRIOGS 012.2.1 REVISION A 1
SECTION 1.0 CONVENTIONS
1. Words or phrases that appear capitalised out of context are defined within the
Definitions section of this VRIOG Standard.
2. The word “Shall” is to be understood as mandatory.
3. The word “Should” is to be understood as non-mandatory, i.e. advisory or

recommended.
4. The word “May” is to be understood as non-mandatory, i.e. advisory or

recommended.
5. The Infrastructure Manager is the person responsible for Signalling works

infrastructure, but may also be responsible for installing Telecommunications
infrastructure. In those instances the VicTrack Network Maintenance Manager
must be consulted for agreement on work methods, specifications and standards
to be applied. In general, if the Infrastructure Manager is named as being the
responsible authority, then it should be noted that the VicTrack Network
Maintenance Manager is also an interested party whenever telecommunications
infrastructure is being supplied and installed.
6. Uncontrolled Standards may not be referenced within the VRIOG Standards.

These include former PTC Standards, Franchisee Standards, Franchisee
Constructor Standards and Infrastructure Lessee Standards.
7. Controlled Standards, including Australian Standards and other VRIOG Standards,

may be referenced but only if:
a) The referenced item cannot be adequately explained with an amount of text

that could not reasonably be inserted into the body of the Standard.
b) The reader is not referenced to another Controlled Standard necessary for the
item to be adequately explained, ie. One document link only.
c) The referenced document is a Figure or table and could not reasonably be

included in the appendices of the Standard.
8. The format employed in the VRIOG Standards is compatible with Australian

Standards, and will be used from this point on.
9. The numbering system for the VRIOG Standards is chronologically sequential from
the point of introduction, and is not based on any form of interpretive system.
10. The VRIOG Standards contain engineering information necessary to operate a

safe Railway. VRIOG Standards will not contain any information that can be
construed as a work instruction, procedure, process or protocol. This information
forms the basis of each individual entity’s Safety Accreditation Certification, and,
as such, is outside the scope of VRIOG Standards.
2 VRIOGS 012.2.1 REVISION A
SECTION 2.0 DEFINITIONS

Terminology used and /or applied in this Standard is defined as follows:
Terminology Definition
1100 The phone number for “dial before you dig” services
1800 619 1111 The phone number displayed on all VicTrack cable marker
posts for contact with VicTrack Access, for information on
underground VicTrack communications cables on Victorian rail
corridors
Backfill Backfill is compactable material free of rocks that will not pass
through a 30mm sieve and free of broken concrete, brick,
rubble, wood, glass, rubbish, steel or other metal objects that
could damage cables or affect the operation of electronic cable
locators and is used within 400mm of cables and conduits as
backfill.
Cables - Main Cables that are run from an equipment room, housing or
signalling cables equipment box to another equipment room, housing or
equipment box. Examples such as; signal cables, high voltage
signalling or power supply cabling, fibre optic cables, etc. Also
commonly referred to as “through type” cables.
Cables - Local All other cables that are not main cables; and are those run
signalling cables from equipment rooms, housings or boxes to trackside field
located equipment. Examples such as point mechanisms,
signals, track circuits, train detection equipment, trainstops, axle
counter disconnection points, TPWS disconnection points, post
telephones, local signalling power cabling, boom barrier
mechanisms, pedestrian gates mechanisms, train stabling
gates, etc.
Cable Ladder A cable ladder type cable route is generally required in areas
where clearance limitations demand it
Cable route Cable route means any material installed or excavation carried
out for the installation of cables between two or more points.
Clean fill Clean fill is sand (or soil) that is completely free of stones,
rocks, wood, metal and rubbish or similar.
Conduit A Conduit can also be generically known as a pipe and can be
manufactured from materials such as high density polyethylene
(HDPE) or galvanised steel. Within the railway environment
these materials require approval for use.
Communications Communications cable is all main and local communications
Cable cables including communication cables to station buildings,
relay rooms, Equipment Boxes, trackside telephones, etc.
Constructor Person or organisation undertaking supply, construction,
manufacturing, installation, testing or commissioning works
under this standard. Can often also be referred to as a
Contractor, within commercial arrangements, Standards and
Specifications.
Terminology Definition
External cable route External cable route is any cable route not in a building.
FOC Fibre Optical Cable
GLT Ground Level Troughing
GST Galvanised Steel Troughing
HDPE High Density Polyethylene as is used in manufacture of
conduits
Infrastructure Any structure or asset, be it new or existing, that exists in the
railway environment.
Installation-Major Where conduits are required for the use of main signalling and
Conduit or cable communications cable route installations such as; under rail line
enclosure Installations crossing, under all types of roads, under all vehicle access
tracks, or through station platform areas.
Installation-Minor Where conduits are required only for the use of local signalling,
Conduit or cable power and communications cabling and cable route
enclosure Installations installations, under or beside the rail line.
Internal cable route Internal cable route means any cable route inside a building or
similar structure.
Non invasive method For the purposes of this Standard this shall refer to the
potholing method for location of buried cables and services.
See potholing definition within this Standard.
Overloading Overloading is where there are too many cables for the troughing
lids to be correctly fitted.
Potholing Potholing is a procedure which uses water lance vacuum
excavation techniques to expose services such as; cables,
conduits or marker tape. Manual excavation using hand tolls
can also be used. This process is also known as “explorative
trenching”. At all times when carrying out such activities due
care is to be exercised so as not to damage any services.
Signalling cables Signalling cables means but is not limited to cables to signals,
points, trainstops, signal enforcement equipment, ground
frames, releasing switches, level crossings, buffer stop lights,
plus cables between equipment rooms and between equipment
rooms and Equipment Boxes.
Stabilised sand Stabilised sand is a mixture of sand and Portland cement in the
ratio 10:1.
Troughing Troughing is also commonly referred to as trunking, and forms
the type enclosure to install cabling within.
ULX Under Line Crossing

URX Under Road Crossing
Works For the purpose of this document, the carrying out of any
construction or similar activity.
Table 1 - Terminology
SECTION 3.0 SCOPE AND GENERAL

3.1 Scope
This Standard mandates the accepted criteria that shall be employed when installing new,
or making alterations on the Victorian Rail Network. For existing installations, the standard
only applies to the altered part(s). The standard is not intended to be retrospectively
applied to existing installations (but when a change is introduced, that change is required
to comply with this standard).
The purpose of this Standard is to provide the requirements for the Construction of the
Signal and Communications cable route and Signalling civil type works.
This Standard describes the minimum requirements for the following works:
a) Construction of various types of cable routes
b) Construction of under line and under road crossings.
c) Construction of cable pits, jointing pits and cable turning chambers.
d) Construction of foundations for signals and signal gantries
e) Construction of foundations for Equipment Boxes
f) Construction of access paths and associated works
g) Construction of retaining walls, ladders and safety handrails
h) Construction of fencing and gates for signalling works
3.2 Application
This standard applies to all of the Victorian Rail Network encompassed by the State
borders and shall be applied for the construction of cable routes and signalling civil works,
as well as Telecommunications works in shared infrastructure such as trenches, ground
level troughing, trunking and similar.
This Standard shall be used in conjunction with VRIOGS 012.2 Signalling Supply,
Construction and Installation.
For Telecommunications Design and Construction works this specification shall be used in
conjunction with VicTrack Communications Installation Specification TS-SP013 (latest
version) and VRIOGS Telecommunications Standards and Specifications.
3.3 Background
The following standards have been superseded by this standard with relation to the
construction of cable routes and signalling civil works.
List of documents superseded or utilised for the signalling and communications cable
route and signalling civil type works areas;
a) VRIOGS 012.2 Specification for Signalling Supply, Construction and Installation,

and only sections where defining the construction of cable routes and signalling civil
works.
SECTION 4.0 CABLE ROUTE REQUIREMENTS

4.1 General
The setting out and the construction of the cable route shall be in accordance with the
provisions of this Standard, and also those further Standards as identified within this
Standard.
a) The cable route shall, so far as possible, follow a constant grade and line. Rough
and uneven ground shall be levelled to the extent necessary to achieve this object.
Where a buried route is installed, only sufficient surface levelling to provide access
shall be carried out. Levelling work shall not adversely affect railway or natural
drainage, or pedestrian or vehicular access routes.
b) The Constructor shall mark the location of all existing signalling and communication
cables, drainage and all other underground services of other authorities in the area
to be excavated. Installation shall be carried out in accordance with this
specification, AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and VicTrack Communications Cable
Installation Specification TS-SP-013.
c) Unless otherwise approved by the Infrastructure Manager; all signalling,
communications and signalling power cables shall be installed in; either buried
conduits or be direct buried, with ground level or above ground cable routes being
the least preferred option.
i Within the electrified Metropolitan Network area the Constructor shall install
buried PVC conduits.
ii Within the Country Regional Network areas the preference is for buried PVC
conduits; with direct buried signal and power cabling as an option where
cabling is to be installed for distances in excess of 1000 metres, and as
agreed upon with the Infrastructure Manager.
iii Communication cables shall have adequate separation from all electric cables
in accordance with Australian Standard AS/ACIF S009 Installation
requirements for customer cabling (Wiring Rules)
d) When trenching alongside or across gas, water mains or service utility lines, the
Constructor shall comply with any restrictions which may apply to the easement and
liaise with the owners of that easement to establish mutually agreed methods of
protection and support for the services.
e) When trenching near existing VicTrack cable infrastructure the Constructor is to
conform to the requirements of the VicTrack Network Protection Plan TS-SP015.
f) The width of the trench shall be not less than 200 mm (chain or bucket excavation)
or 300 mm (backhoe and other).
g) The floor of the trench shall be level and free from all loose sharp objects; such as
stones or rock of any type, or size, or rail ballast.
h) Trenching, cabling laying and backfilling shall be carried out progressively and
concurrently, so that trenches are open for an absolute minimum of time.
i) The Constructor shall break and remove all rock and excess spoil from the site, and
shall supply any such quantities of clean imported fill as is necessary to cater for
areas where rock has been removed and backfill is required.
j) Where interfering to existing pathway areas and similar; the Constructor shall
maintain continuous access to all pathways, or provide alternate access to current
VRIOGS standards. The Constructor shall also maintain existing lighting, or provide
substitute lighting to the standard required by VRIOGS.
k) A site construction plan shall be supplied by the Constructor and approved for use
by the Infrastructure Manager or representative, and the VicTrack Network
Maintenance Manager (where applicable); for the installation of all cable routes and
equipment. Also refer to the requirements for the Site Construction plan as defined
within this Standard.
l) Existing in service asbestos type pits, trunking and associated enclosures shall not
be utilised for new works. If asbestos items are encountered on site, and those
items are not in the Infrastructure Manager’s Asbestos Register, then appropriate
actions are to ensue to ensure that the assets are recorded in the register and either
made safe or removed.
m) Where fencing of the railway reserve prevents access to any signalling equipment,
the Constructor shall modify the fence and supply and install an access gate. The
Access gate is to match the existing fencing and maintain security. The Gate is to be
secured and secured with a VRI -1P5P Infrastructure Manager type lock supplied by
the Constructor.
n) Cable routes shall not be installed in flood prone areas or located where inadequate
drainage could lead to flooding.
o) Damage to any service during construction activities shall be the total responsibility of
the Constructor.
4.2 Underground Services of Other Authorities

a) The renewal area is likely to contain numerous existing buried services that are not
fully documented. The location of all services within a one metre distance of any
proposed installation work shall be determined prior to commencing the work.
b) The Constructor shall be responsible for the identification and location of all buried
services.
c) The Constructor shall locate and check all below ground services prior to
commencement of any excavation work and institute procedures that ensure
services are not disturbed or damaged.
d) The Constructor shall carry out any liaison and negotiations with the appropriate
service and local authorities to determine where services such as; communications
cables, electricity, water, gas, fuel and oil pipe lines are located on the property.
Service call numbers such as 1100 “dial before you dig” for buried services
locations; and 9619 1111 “VicTrack cable location” service shall be utilised, along
with further service bodies and local authorities. These services shall all be clearly
captured and marked on the cable route site plan.
e) When working within 5 metres of operational telecommunications cables, the
VicTrack Network Protection Plan TS-SP015 is to be followed.
f) All investigative and similar like excavations to locate existing services shall be by
the “non invasive method”, and only with prior approval of the Infrastructure
Manager or the VicTrack Network Maintenance Manager (where applicable)
g) Where power, telephone, water or sewerage, gas or other services exist in proposed
cable routes, the following shall apply:
i. Buried cable shall, if practicable, be laid 500 mm below the obstacle; or
ii. Ground level troughing or PVC conduits shall be laid over the obstacle on a
bed of clean fill with a minimum separation of 100mm and continue for 3
metres on either side of the obstacle.
4.3 Working Whilst Existing System is Operational
a) Under no circumstances shall the Constructor interfere with any equipment that is
operational without the prior approval of the Infrastructure Manager.
b) Buried metal conduits, (water, gas, sewerage, etc) and metal armour on some high
voltage cables are connected to the traction power supply return by means of
“Electrolysis Bonds” at a number of points along the line. The Constructor shall
ensure that electrolysis bonding connections or equipment are not damaged or
disturbed. .
c) Mechanical digging equipment shall not be utilised within 5 metres of an existing
buried telecommunications service without the approval of the VicTrack Network
Maintenance Manager (where applicable) When trenching alongside or across gas,
water mains or service utility lines the Contractor shall comply with any restrictions
that may apply to the easement and liaise with the owners of that easement to
establish mutually agreed methods of protection and support for the services.
d) The Constructor is responsible for rectifying any damage to services caused by the
Constructor’s works.
4.4 Cable Route Survey

The Constructor shall make reference to plans supplied, and by field inspections become
acquainted with the site conditions, and be aware of any local site difficulties. The
Constructor shall prepare a construction site plan on which the railway line has been
superimposed, and which complies with the following:
a) The site plan shall show the most suitable location for the cable route, which shall
have minimum changes in direction.
b) During the site survey, the positioning of equipment shall be checked in accordance
with the Track Circuit Bonding and Signalling Apparatus Plan, Signalling
Arrangements Plan, Cable Running and Construction Plan. Any changes shall be
recorded on these plans and updated and submitted with the “As- in- Service plans”.
c) All proposed cable joints shall be indicated on the site construction plan and also the
location of any associated cable jointing pits.
d) Method of installation at all roads, occupation crossings and under line locations
e) Determination of method as to whether is shall be open type excavation, boring,
ploughing or other.
4.5 Location of Cable Route

a) In general the cable route shall be located as near as possible to the railway
boundary.
b) Cable routes shall be parallel to the running lines wherever possible.
c) Except as otherwise specified, the main cable route shall be installed on one side of
the track (except where there are four tracks or more, in which case the route may
be split to run down each side when convenient) and shall cross the track the least
possible number of times. Local cable routes shall be installed as required
d) The cable route shall be located and installed so that it does not divert or interfere with
any drainage (railway or natural) or underground services. Special care shall be taken
to ensure that the route will not affect the stability of any embankment or cutting.
e) Where large waterways, gullies or roadways under tracks are encountered the cable
route may be fixed to available bridge structure using approved attachments.
f) For small creeks and occasional waterways the cables shall be enclosed in conduits
laid in trenches under the creek bed.
g) Cable routes shall, where possible, be on the side of the tracks not occupied by high
voltage earthed locations such as sub-stations, tie stations and transformer
locations.
h) Where possible cable routes shall be located at least 4 metres clear of the base of
any bank or top of any bank or cutting.
i) Cable routes under roadways shall be installed within the railway corridor whenever
possible.
j) Cable routes, pits and markers shall not be placed on access tracks or in positions
where they may obstruct vehicles, or be subject to any form of damage.
k) Alignment for trenching shall be not less than 4 metres from the outside running edge
of the nearest rail and in accordance with the VRIOGS 0001 Structural Gauge
Envelopes - Minimum clearances for Infrastructure adjacent to the Railway, unless
approved by the Infrastructure Manager and clear of any other drainage pits or similar.
l) GPS co-ordinates to an accuracy of ± 0.5 m shall be recorded every ten metres for
the entire length of the cable route / trench, and at all changes of direction. This
method shall also be utilised to capture all;
i. Cable joint locations.
ii. Cable pit locations.
iii. Under line crossings
iv. Under road crossings
v. Other significant points of the cable route
4.6 Cable Route Intersection with Access Roads

a) Where a railway access road intersects with an area where buried cables are being
installed, it shall be in accordance with; and as defined within this Standard.
Generally no special arrangements are required at that location and backfilling shall
be carried out in accordance with this Standard.
b) Where the access road intersects with an above ground troughing route, the cables
shall be run in buried pipes with pits each side of the roadway, in accordance with
this Standard.
c) Where the access road intersects with a GLT route, pipes and pits may be used or
the GLT may be laid 300 mm below ground and be protected with a reinforced
concrete slab backfill with stabilised concrete or stabilised sand, with the
Infrastructure Manager’s approval.
4.7 Types of Cable Route

Cable Route Types are;
a) Type 1 Cable buried directly in the ground (excluding communications cable) –
refer Drawing No. 112000/5/4.
b) Type 2 Cable buried directly in the ground (excluding communications cable)
with one spare conduit buried over the cable to be accessed in future if
required – refer Drawing No. 112000/5/4.
c) Type 3 Cable buried directly in the ground (excluding communications cable)
with one or more conduits buried over the cable and pits at regular
intervals – refer Drawing No. 112000/5/4.
d) Type 4 Cable buried in conduits with pits at regular intervals – refer Drawing No.
112000/5/5.
e) Type 5 Ground Level Troughing (GLT),
i. Reinforced concrete troughing to AS1597, or
ii. Linear polyethylene – 2% Carbon Black (UV stabiliser) cable troughing with
concrete or polyethylene lids.
iii. or other Infrastructure Manager type approved ducting / troughing
f) Type 6 Galvanised Steel Troughing on posts or brackets (GST)
g) Type 7 Galvanised Steel Ladder on Wall
h) Type 8 Aluminium Ladder on Wall
i) Type 9 Stainless Steel Ladder on Wall
j) Type 10 Conduits or Pipes under road or conduits under track –refer Drawing No.
112000/5/7
k) Type 11 Cable buried directly in the ground – Shared and mixed services – refer
Drawing No. 112000/5/8.
l) Type 12 Cable buried in conduits with Signalling and Substation / Traction High
Voltage services – refer Drawing No. 112000/5/9.
m) Type 13 Cable within steel galvanised pipe
Notes
i. Types 3 to 12 inclusive are classed as “re-enterable” cable route.
ii. Where cables are buried through station platforms, cable route Type 4 shall be
used.
iii. All Communications cabling shall be installed in conduit and a minimum of
650 mm deep. (Note: communications cables are not permitted to be direct
buried).
n) Absolute minimum cover for direct buried cables shall be as follows;
i. High voltage cabling 800 mm
ii. HV cabling when in a common trench with telecommunications if the HV has
an approved cover strip installed above the HV cable. – 1050 mm
iii. HV cabling when in a common trench with telecommunications if the HV
cable does not have an approved cover strip installed above the HV cable. -
1200 mm
iv. Low voltage cabling 600 mm
v. Extra low voltage cabling 500 mm
vi. Optical fibre cabling 900 mm
vii. Air mains 400 mm
4.8 Radius of Bends

The smallest radius bend in any cable route shall be not less than the manufacturer’s
recommended minimum radius, or as defined within this Standard and to cater for the
largest cable to be installed in that route.
4.9 Stability of Excavations

a) Excavations in or near tracks, platforms or access roads shall be securely shored to
prevent the sides of the excavation from collapsing. Battering and benching are
suitable alternatives to shoring.
b) All trenches shall be shored in compliance to the Occupational Health and Safety
Act and Codes of Practice.
c) Excavation work shall not commence in or near tracks, platforms or access roads
until sufficient shoring material is available on site to shore up the excavations as
the work progresses.
4.10 Programming of Works

a) As far as possible; all trenching, cable laying and backfilling shall be carried out
progressively and concurrently so that trenches are open for the minimum time.
b) Work shall be planned such that trenches are required to be kept open for a
maximum of three (3) working days except for:
i. trenches under or within 3 metres of operating tracks, or
ii. where the stability of the embankment and or formation is affected, or
iii. through sidings areas
4.11 Public Safety

a) To ensure the safety of the Public, suitable barricades shall be erected around
excavations, or covers across excavations where continuous access is required
across them, when work is not actually taking place. Barricades shall have a
minimum height of 1 metre and barricades and covers shall comply with the
Occupational Health and Safety Act. All sides of all excavations and trenches on the
Rail Reserve shall be covered or protected by barriers on completion of each day's
activities.
b) Where trenches are covered by boarding as a temporary measure, the boarding
shall be in accordance with AS 4687 Temporary Fencing and Hoardings.
c) Excavation on platforms shall cause the minimum interference and risk to the public
and train operations.
d) Temporary covers shall be provided for trenches to allow access to trains, platform
amenities and booking offices. At no time while train services are running shall
access to or from the platform or to any part of a train be blocked.
4.12 Placement of Spoil

a) Spoil shall not be placed on ballast or foul of track gauge or access-ways. If spoil
has to be temporarily placed on the track, tarpaulins, plywood or other suitable
material shall be used to provide a barrier between the ballast and the spoil.
b) Spoil placed between the rails whilst performing works; or within 1 metre from any
rail shall not extend above the top of rail level.
c) Spoil shall not be placed in a position where it could obstruct track drainage or be
washed into track drains or onto the ballast during periods of heavy rain.
d) Spoil shall not be placed in a position where it may damage or affect the operation
of existing equipment (e.g. mechanical point and signalling control rodding or wires,
cable routes, power operated points, trainstops etc.).
e) Spoil shall not impede the safe and unrestricted access for train drivers and others
to signal telephones or other equipment, and this access shall be maintained at all
times.
f) Spoil and excavated materials shall not be stockpiled on platforms unless with prior
agreement with the Infrastructure Manager.
4.13 Blasting
NO blasting shall be undertaken without written permission from the relevant statutory
authorities and permission from the Infrastructure Manager.
SECTION 5.0 CABLE ROUTE MARKER POSTS, CABLE JOINT

MARKER POSTS AND EQUIPMENT PROTECTION
RAIL POSTS
5.1 Equipment Protection Rail Posts
a) Protection Rail Posts shall be provided and installed by the Constructor at the
following locations;
i. In accordance with Plan STD R0016 Signal Equipment Service Area typical
clearances, and general requirements
ii. At pits on two (2) diagonal corners to identify the location of the pit and to
protect the pit from vehicular traffic
iii. At locations where signalling and associated infrastructure is in danger of

being damaged by vehicular traffic or similar
b) The rail protection posts (or other Infrastructure Manager approved structure) shall
be painted white and extending not less than 800 mm both above and below ground
level.
c) The protection posts can also be utilised as either cable route markers or cable joint
markers and shall be manufactured in accordance with drawing numbers STD
G0003 and STD G0004.
5.2 Cable Route Markers and Cable Joint Markers

a) Cable route markers shall be supplied and installed by the Constructor at the
following locations:
i. At points of entering and leaving the VicTrack property line or where

impractical (due to tenancy leases) the Rail Reserve.
ii. At angles or spurs from the straight route.
iii. At all drains or other points of hazard.
iv. At such spacing that, from any marker the adjacent marker on either side is
readily visible, with a maximum spacing of 200 metres in open country or
100 metres in closer settled or highly timbered areas.
b) The markers shall be mounted on rail posts (or other Infrastructure Manager
approved structure) painted white and extending not less than 800 mm both above
and below ground level. Cable route markers shall be manufactured in accordance
with drawing numbers STD G0003 and STD G0004.The marker plates are to be
fixed to the clean surface of the rail post by construction adhesive or similar
permanent fixing.
c) The cable route marker shall show by means of engraving on the plate the depth of
the installed signalling cable and the signalling cable route offset from the nearest
rail. Cable route markers installed for trenches that contain only telecommunications
cables will show the offset from the cable route marker.
d) Buried cable joints or joints in pits shall be indicated by rail posts (or other
Infrastructure Manager approved structure) painted yellow and extending not less
than 800 mm above and below ground level.
e) Cable route markers shall be placed beside the trench and not directly over it. And
shall remain close to fences or fixed objects where possible and be positioned so
that they are unlikely to damaged by track maintenance or other vehicles. The cable
route markers shall not obstruct footpaths, walkways or vehicle access ways.
f) The Constructor shall prepare a plan in tabulation format to record the offset
distance of the centre line of the buried cable trench to the inside running edge of
the nearest rail. The plan shall be issued prior to the commencement of trenching
operations and offset distances shall be recorded as the work progresses. The data
shall be transferred to the final signalling drawings for incorporation into the final “as
in service and constructed” signal book of drawings. Measurements shall depict the
depth of the installed cabling. The location of all cable joints shall be recorded in the
exact same manner as for the cable route, and shall be shown in a tabulation format
and also on all cable running plans.
g) In station and yard areas the cable route markers shall be mounted on posts with
500 mm protrusion above ground (or on an adjacent fence line where available). In
all other areas markers shall be mounted on posts with 800mm protrusion above
ground.
h) In station or yard areas they shall not obstruct footpaths, walkways or vehicle
access ways.
i) Cable route markers shall be placed close to a fence or other fixed structure and in
such a position that they are not likely to be run over by track maintenance or other
vehicles.
j) Cable route marker signs may be installed on Overhead Wiring Structures where
approved. The bonding agent used to attach the marker to the structure shall not
cause deleterious effects to the structure or its protective coating and shall be a type
approved product.
SECTION 6.0 BURIED CABLE ROUTE (CABLE ROUTE TYPES 1,

2, 3, 4)
6.1 General
a) The excavation of trenches, backfilling and compaction shall be carried out in
accordance with this Standard.
b) To avoid the need to re-open cable trenches, main and local cables shall be
installed in buried cable areas at the same time.
c) Airlines may be included in the trench alongside the cables
d) Vertical and Horizontal separation of all cables and services shall comply with this
Standard.
6.2 Depth of Cable Route

a) Cables and conduit buried in ground shall have a minimum cover of 800 mm from
the cable or topmost conduit to natural ground level.
b) The top of cables and conduit buried in the track formation shall be a minimum of
1200 mm below rail level.
c) Where cables are to be installed in ULX and URX conduits the provisions of this
Standard shall apply.
6.3 Protective Cover over Signalling and Communications Cables
a) To provide mechanical protection to signalling, communications and power cables

the Constructor shall provide a separate cover strip covering all the cables
(minimum cover width of 150 mm).
b) The cover strip shall be placed on top of the cables and overlap the cables by not
less than 50 mm on each side as shown on Drawing No. 112000/5/4.
c) The protective cover shall be no closer than 75 mm above the cable/s and shall
comply to AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules
6.4 PVC Cable Marker Tape in Trenches

a) 150mm wide orange coloured PVC "DANGER RAILWAY SIGNALLING CABLES"
marker tape shall be installed in all trenches 300 mm below ground level as shown
on Drawing Nos. 112000/5/4 and 112000/5/5 except where cables are permitted in
shallow trenches due to rock, etc. when the depth of the marker tape shall be not
less than 100mm above the protective cover over any cables/conduits.
6.5 Rock Areas

a) In areas where rock is encountered, the cables shall be laid on a clean bed of sand
100 mm thick. (Drawing No. 112000/5/6)
b) The depth of cables in rock and shale areas shall normally be at least 600 mm to
cover strip or conduit except that in areas of unbroken rock a reduction in depth to
300 mm may be permitted.
c) The final 150 mm of fill of trenches in rock areas shall be stabilised sand, or
concrete (minimum 25Mpa) if in vehicle access roads.
6.6 Cable and Conduit Ploughing
a) Cable and Conduit Ploughing shall only be utilised for signalling and
communications installation works with approval from the Infrastructure Manager.
6.7 Buried Conduits
a) Conduits shall be rigid UPVC or other Infrastructure Manager approved product

types and all joints performed using the manufacturer's recommended jointing
methods.
b) The wall thickness (or class) of conduit shall be sufficient to guarantee that there will
be no loss of cross sectional area and that there will be less than 10% loss of
diameter in any direction during or after backfilling, boring, ploughing or pulling.
c) The minimum diameter of conduits shall be at least three (3) times the outside
diameter of the cable to be pulled through the conduit with a minimum of 50 mm
diameter.
d) The number of conduits to be provided in ULX's, URX's and under access roads will
depend on the cable route requirements in that area but provision shall be made for
the following, as applicable.
e) Signalling and power cables shall be in separate conduits to communication cables.
f) High voltage cable shall be in a separate conduit to signalling or communications
cable.
g) Each 1 kv, 2 kv, 6.6 kv or other high voltage cable shall be in a separate conduit,
with separation distances in accordance with Australian Standard AS3000 and
VicTrack Cable Installation Specification TS-SP-013.
h) Unless otherwise approved, fibre optical cable shall be in a separate conduit.
i) Air lines shall be in a separate conduit.
j) Except for directionally bored ULX’s and URX’s; conduits shall be laid parallel and
level in a consistent format in the trench and secured in that position, then carefully
compacted with clean fill to hold them in their desired position.
k) The minimum cover to the upper most section of the conduits shall be as follows:
i. Station platforms, non vehicular areas: 300 mm.
ii. Pedestrian access ways: 450 mm (ACMA requirement)
iii. Heavy vehicular areas: 650 mm.
iv. Rail reserve and station areas: 650 mm
v. Access roads where conduits are less than 650 mm below surface level, the
final 150 mm of fill shall be concrete (25Mpa).
l) Rigid UPVC conduits used for protection of cables shall be white for communication
cable and white with a continuous black marking line for air mains. Orange conduits
shall be used for other cabling.
m) A draw wire of 6 mm polypropylene blue/yellow or similar rope shall be placed in
each conduit and suitably anchored at each end. Conduit ends shall be sealed using
conduit end caps or an approved equivalent to prevent the ingress of dirt or sludge
into the conduits.
n) All cables installed under rail lines shall be enclosed in conduits. The requirements
for installing conduits and pipes under tracks are further specified in AS4799
“Installation of underground utility services and pipe lines within railway areas”. The
preferred installation is by boring or jacking of conduits under tracks.
o) All conduits under rail lines shall be at a minimum depth of 1200 mm below head of
rail level. This depth shall be maintained for a distance of 3 metres from the nearest
rail. If site restrictions are such that this cannot be achieved, or the conduit extends
into a platform area, then the proposed solution for each instance is to be approved
by the Infrastructure Manager for signalling conduits works, and the VicTrack
Network Maintenance Manager for telecommunications conduit works.
p) The Constructor shall remove any excess spoil from the reserve.
q) All excavations for under rail lines, under roadways, through station platforms,
between rail lines, through waterways shall be backfilled and compacted with
progressive 150 mm thick layers of “A” grade 20 mm crushed rock or in accordance
to the Infrastructure Managers Standard.
r) All existing pathways should be reinstated to original conditions and be compliant to

all current VRIOGS standards.
s) All PVC Conduits that extend above the ground shall be painted silver to prevent
degradation by the sun and located to protect from mechanical damage, or use rigid
UPVC conduits. Where damage is likely; galvanised steel conduits or suitable
protection for the conduit shall be used in accordance with AS/NZ 3000.
t) Unless otherwise specified; in the Metropolitan area for open type excavations the
minimum number of 100 mm diameter PVC conduits that may be installed shall be:
i. Major under track 4 orange and 2 white.
ii. Minor under track 3 orange and 1 white.

iii. Under road 4 orange and 2 white.
iv. Through railway station platforms 4 orange and 2 white.
v. Main Trenches 4 orange and 2 white.
u) Unless otherwise specified; in the Metropolitan Electrified area for sleeved or bored
type applications the minimum number of 100 mm diameter PVC conduits that may
be installed shall be:
ii. Minor under track 2 orange and 1 white

iv. Through railway station platforms 4 orange and 2 white.
v. Main Trenches 4 orange and 2 white
v) Unless otherwise specified; in the Regional areas for excavated, sleeved or bored
type applications the minimum number of 100 mm diameter PVC conduits that may
be installed shall be:
ii. Minor under track 2 orange and 1 white

iv. Through railway station platforms 3 orange and 1 white
v. Main Trenches 3 orange and 1 white

w) Where conduits are utilised for the extent of a main cable route; cable pits are to be
installed at no greater than 300 metres apart and nominally 150 metres, and be
capable of allowing a person to enter the actual pit. Conduit quantities and sizes
within the main cable route are to comply with those within this Standard.
x) Where conduits are to be provided for entry into signal equipment rooms, signal
equipment huts and as related to this specification; there shall be a cable pit
installed outside that building for entry to within that building. This cable pit shall
cater for all conduits required for the works, for future capacity and all other cabling
and conduits requirements within this specification.
y) Spigot type or bell mouth fittings shall be used on all conduits; during cable
installations to ensure that cabling is not damaged during installations.
z) All conduits, used or not, shall be appropriately sealed to prevent water and rodent
entry into the pit/s.
6.8 Capping of conduits

a) All spare conduits shall be capped after installation using UPVC caps, or equivalent
to prevent the possibility of stray materials entering the conduits.
6.9 Method of joining conduits

a) All conduit joints shall be by utilising the spigot and socket ends.
b) The ends to be joined shall be thoroughly cleaned using a conduit manufacturer

approved solvent. The ends, both spigots and socket shall be coated with a conduit
manufacturer approved adhesive and the joint then completed
6.10 Direction of laying conduits

a) The orientation of the spigot and socket ends of the conduit forming the pits is
critical in providing for smooth and safe cable pulling and installation works
b) Where cables are to be pulled into relay rooms and other similar enclosures, all
spigot ends must face these enclosures.
6.11 Draw wires in conduits

a) Spare conduits shall be cleaned, fitted with a draw wire of 6mm polypropylene
blue/yellow rope or similar approved draw wire.
b) The draw wire shall be continuous for the complete length of the conduit run
c) The draw wire shall have a minim of 2 metres of slack within each and every pit
along the conduit run, and shall be suitably anchored at each end of the conduit run
and then sealed with proprietary end caps to prevent the ingress of dirt, etc.
d) The draw wire shall be restrained in each pit to prevent it being inadvertently pulled
into the conduit/s.
6.12 Spare Buried Conduits
a) Spare conduits shall be supplied and installed with the following detailed minimum
requirements, and all spare conduits are the minimum spare conduits to be
provided after all cables have been installed:
i. Minor under rail line – One 100 mm orange conduit and one 100 mm white
conduit;
ii. Major under rail line, under roadway and through a station platform – Three
100 mm orange PVC conduits or 25% of the total number of conduits,
whichever is the greater, and also one 100 mm white conduit.
iii. Main Trenches- Three 100 mm orange PVC conduits or 25% of the number of
conduits, whichever is the greater, and also one 100 mm white conduit.
b) In addition to the requirements specified above, the below shall also be considered
for all conduit installations;
i. Type 2 One 100 mm orange conduit and one 100 mm white conduit
ii. Type 3 Two 100 mm orange conduits and one 100 mm white conduit or 25%
of the number of conduits whichever is the greater.
iii. Type 4 Three 100 mm orange conduits and one 100 mm white conduit or
25% of the number of conduits whichever is the greater.
iv. In determining the number of spare conduits to be provided based upon the
percentage of conduits, reference shall be made only to the resultant whole
number and fractions shall be ignored.
v. All spare conduits shall be tested for correct diameter by pulling a plug of a
diameter 90% of the internal conduit diameter through the conduit after
installation, backfilling and compaction.
vi. Where Type 2 or 3 routes is specified; the spare conduit(s) shall be laid over
the cover strip as shown on Drawing No. 112000/5/4.
vii. Where Type 4 route is specified the spare conduits shall be laid over the other
conduits as shown on Drawing No. 112000/5/5.
6.13 Conduits in Platforms and Other Paved Areas
a) Conduits shall be arranged in fixed format for the full length of the platform or paved
area and shall be supported so that backfilling will not disturb the format.
b) Where only pedestrian traffic is involved the depth of the conduits from the top of the
trench to the top of the highest layer of conduits shall be not less than 300 mm.
c) Where motor vehicles can run over the surface the conduits shall be buried not less
than 300 mm and a reinforced concrete slab (25Mpa), minimum 150 mm thick and
overlapping the conduits by 300 mm each side shall be provided immediately under
the pavement surface material.
d) Cable pits for cable pulling purposes shall be provided in platforms in accordance
with this Standard.
e) Where new railway station platforms are constructed or existing railway station
platforms are required to be excavated; there shall be PVC conduits and cable pits
installed for the length of the excavation within the platform central area and at least
300mm deep. Conduits required are 100 mm PVC 4 orange and 2 white, and cable
pits located no further than 60 metres apart and quantities as defined within this
Standard.
6.14 Conduits in High Voltage Areas
a) Where communications cables are required to be run into high voltage earthed
locations such as sub-stations, tie stations and transformer locations, these shall be
looped into and out of the locations and be protected by conduits.
b) An 'earth mat' is provided around high voltage locations as part of the earth
protection arrangements for the high voltage installations. All cables (signalling and
communications) to be installed within 20 metres of the earth mat shall be run in
conduits. Details of the extent of the earthing arrangements around each high
voltage installation will be provided by the Traction Substation Engineer.
c) Existing high voltage earthing arrangements shall not be disturbed under any
circumstances.
6.15 Back Filling

a) Trenches and excavations on platforms, access roads, pathways, under or adjacent
to rail lines and embankments shall be compacted and the original surface
reinstated.
b) In areas where it is not possible to be accessed by the public or rail staff,

compaction of backfill with a mechanical vibrator is not required. In this case the
Constructor shall backfill all trenches and excavations by an appropriate means and
leaves the area free of obstruction and depressions except for a slight mound over
the excavation area to provide for further settlement.
c) Conduits and cables shall be encased in clean fill to 50 mm above the uppermost
conduit or cable.
d) Whenever excavation of the track formation occurs the formation shall be restored
with compacted stabilised sand to the top of the capping layer. Any geotechnical
fabric encountered during excavation shall be replaced with like material, which
overlaps the original by at least 300 mm.
e) Ballast shall not be replaced until the trench or excavation has been filled and
compacted level with the top of the capping layer.
f) Where the buried conduit or cable is located in areas other than track formation,
platforms, access roads or pathways, the trench above the clean fill shall be filled
with material free of broken concrete, brick, rubble, wood, glass, rubbish, steel or
other metallic objects that could damage the cable or effect the operation of a
electronic cable locators and shall be free of stones that will not pass through a 30
mm sieve.
g) The top 150 mm at least of fill in access roads or pathways, which are not sealed,
shall consist of material, which as closely as possible matches that in the road or
pathway surface in both texture and density. The fill shall be compacted as
necessary to achieve matching density. Where the road or path is sealed, the trench
shall be capped with the same material to the same thickness as the original seal.
Any substrate or capping layer below the seal shall also be matched.
h) Surface drains shall be reinstated during the backfilling operations.
i) The backfilling of the excavations will normally take up the majority of the spoil.
However, any surplus spoil or unsuitable fill shall be removed for disposal at an
appropriate agreed location and not spread over the site.
j) Prior to any issue of the Certificates for Practical Completion or similar, all backfilled
trenches and excavations shall be examined and any depressions caused by
settlement or erosion of the backfilling shall be corrected and the cause of the
erosion rectified.
6.16 Compaction
a) Under no circumstances is the cable trench to be compacted by driving excavating
machinery or other vehicles along the trench.
b) In paved areas there shall be a certain amount of moisture evenly spread through
the surface material. Water shall be added by spraying it with a hose until moist.
c) For trenches and excavations on platforms, access roads, pathways, under or

adjacent to rail lines, shunting yards and base of embankments, the fill shall have
minimum relative compaction to AS3798 using an approved mechanical vibrator.
The first 150 mm of fill over cover strips or conduits shall be carefully compacted to
ensure that the cover strips / conduits are not disturbed.
d) Trenches and other excavations in the track formation, platforms, roads, pathways,
through shunting yards or at the base of embankments shall be:
i. Compacted by mechanical means to achieve 95% Standard Compaction in
accordance with AS1289, and
ii. Filled and compacted in layers of 150 mm maximum thickness to achieve the
specified density.
iii. Tests shall be performed to establish the backfill compaction levels achieved.
The tests shall be taken on a frequency of one (1) test per 200 linear metres
per layer or one (1) test per area per layer where any area of excavation is
less than 200 metres long. Audit testing of soil compaction at all levels may be
carried out by the Regional Representative and due allowance for any
interference caused by this testing shall be made.
e) Where backfill does not achieve the required density, it shall be re-excavated to
within 200 mm of the cover strips and/or conduits and re-filled and compacted
correctly.
f) Following compaction, the trench or excavation shall be finished with a slight
mound, height equal to approximately 25% of trench width, to provide for further
settlement.
6.17 Buried Cable Routes through Water Courses
a) For small creeks and occasional waterways the cables shall be enclosed in conduits
laid in trenches not less than 1 metre under the creek bed. The conduits shall be
covered to a minimum depth of 300mm with porous bags filled with stabilised sand
and the remainder of the trench then filled to the top with approved heavy grade
hardcore fill.
b) The conduits on creek banks shall be laid at a gentle slope in grooves in the bank so
that the conduits have a minimum cover of 800 mm. The conduits in the banks shall
be secured in position with suitable anchors and covered with porous bags filled with
stabilised sand and topped with other suitable fill to protect the conduits and prevent
erosion of the banks.
c) Every effort shall be made to avoid placing the conduits in any part of the bank
where obvious erosion has been taking place. If this cannot be avoided stabilisation
of the bank on each side of the trench shall be provided.
d) The buried conduits shall be extended past the edge of the creek banks a minimum
of 4 metres on either side of the creek or waterway. The minimum depth of the
whole of this conduit run shall be 800 mm.
6.18 Cable Routes on Embankments
a) The proposed methods for installing cable routes up or down embankments shall be
submitted for approval to the Infrastructure Manager, and shall be compliant with
this Standard.
b) The methods proposed shall be such that there will be no destabilising of the
embankment and no erosion in the vicinity of the route.
6.19 Cable Routes on Bridges and Viaducts
a) The proposed methods for installing cable routes on bridges shall be submitted for
approval to the Infrastructure Manager.
b) The methods proposed shall be such that there will adequate capacity for future
cabling requirements, and all provisions of this Standard shall be complied with;
separation and segregation of the various services, access and egress for
maintenance purposes, installation methods.
c) Suggested appropriate cable route types being; Type 4 conduits and pits, Type 5
ground level troughing (GLT), Type 6 Galvanised steel Troughing (GST).
SECTION 7.0 GROUND LEVEL TROUGHING CABLE ROUTE

(CABLE ROUTE TYPE 5)
7.1 General
The following general requirements shall apply to Ground Level Troughing:
a) Cable troughing shall be type approved and include;
i. Reinforced concrete troughing to AS1597, or
ii. Linear polyethylene – 2% Carbon Black (UV stabiliser) cable troughing with
concrete or polyethylene lids.
iii. Refer to drawing 112000 / 5 / 19 for Preferred Type 5 Ground Level Troughing
(GLT)
b) GLT shall be checked to ensure that it is properly cured and robust in its structure
and manufactured to accurate measurements to facilitate interlocking of units and
the fittings of lids.
c) The GLT shall be of such a size that there shall be a minimum of 25% spare
capacity after all cables have been installed to allow for some future use.
d) If the addition of proposed new cabling will result in the spare capacity being less
than 10% then a new GLT run shall be installed or an alternative installation method
needs to be adopted.
e) Where existing GLT is near full capacity, investigations shall be carried out to
ascertain whether any of the cables are redundant and could be removed, as this
will free up space.
f) Multi compartment troughing shall be provided when services are shared with
communications cable unless otherwise approved by the Infrastructure Manager.
Where multi compartment troughing is used, separate compartments shall be used
for;
i. Communication cables
ii. Signalling cables
iii. High Voltage cables
g) Where separate compartments are not used; the LV cables and Communication
cables should be run in separate conduits or sub-ducts in the GLT. HV cables
require 300 mm minimum separation to copper communications cables if there is no
physical barrier between them.
h) The separation requirements between copper communications cables and high
voltage power cables requires that there be a minimum of 300 mm separation for
the entire route if there is no permanent fixed barrier between them, regardless of
whether the cables are in conduit or not; if there is a permanent fixed barrier
between the cables then the separation required is a minimum of 175 mm measured
between the sheath or outer conduit surface of each cable across the barrier, as
well as meeting a minimum radial separation of 150 mm. The method of ensuring
the cable separation is to be proposed to the Infrastructure Manager and the
VicTrack Network Maintenance Manager for approval prior to the installation of the
GLT and/or cables/conduits.
i) Care shall be taken in the construction of a GLT route on banks and sloping sites to
ensure that the supporting ground does not erode during periods of rain.
j) GLT routes shall be laid as level and straight as possible, and with relation to either
natural ground level, or to rail level and dependant on GLT installation site.
k) GLT shall not be installed where it may be subjected to vehicular traffic unless
approved by the Infrastructure Manager ( should this be the case then the trough
and lid shall be capable of carrying a load of 4.5 tonnes as a minimum over a
contact area of 100 mm x 300 mm applied to any part of the lid.)
l) Alignment for the GLT route should be outside the clearance limits of the minimum
structure gauge detailed in VRIOGS 0001 Structural Gauge Envelopes-Minimum
clearances for Infrastructure adjacent to the Railway. However small ground level
troughing as used for local equipment access may encroach into the clearance
diagram dimensions, provided it is installed so that is does not become an
impediment to rail sleeper maintenance. Infringements to these limits require
approval by the Infrastructure Manager.
m) Where the communication cable is in conduit or separated by a permanent rigid
barrier, the separation to HV cables shall be 150 mm minimum horizontal separation
with the minimum distance from sheath to sheath around the barrier being 175mm.
and in accordance to AS/ACIF S009.
n) Air mains installed in GLT shall be laid above the signalling cable.
o) Signalling fibre optical cables do not require separation from power cables, however
it is recommended that the optical fibre cables be installed in separate conduits
where possible, or in subduct within the power conduit, GLT or trunking in order to
provide mechanical protection.
p) For directional changes of 45 degrees or greater in GLT, the change shall be made
using turning chambers.
q) Where there is a need to provide an enlarged enclosure for cable joining, air
reservoir, etc, such enclosures are to be constructed of reinforced concrete,
maintaining a fixed concrete partition for separation of services. The GLT is to butt
the enclosure squarely sealing all joints. Expanded chambers (which may be
fabricated from 6 mm galvanised chequered plates) shall have their lids cut to
required size.
r) All cut edges of galvanised plate shall be de-burred and painted to protect from
corrosion. Galvanised steel lids shall be secured.
s) GLT shall have the means to enable bottom entries or exits.
t) For side entry/exit, an access hole may be cut into the side wall. The cutting angle
shall not exceed 45 degrees, so that a minimum cable bending radius is maintained.
Sharp edges shall be removed and the access sealed and cables protected after
cables are in place using an enclosure or approved sealant.
u) GLT of any type construction shall not be installed under rail lines
v) Concrete troughing shall be accurately manufactured to enable each segment to
interlock securely with each other and lids to fit securely on the top of the troughing
without rocking.
w) Where GLT is being installed near a running line it shall be positioned such that it
will not obstruct or be likely to be damaged by, the removal and replacement of
railway sleepers.
x) GLT to be installed within 3 metres of the face of the nearest running rail shall be
installed such that the top of the GLT lid is not higher than 200 mm below the
underside of adjacent sleepers.
7.2 Troughing Route Capacity

a) One or more troughs shall be installed to provide the necessary capacity to
accommodate the cables and shall provide 25% spare capacity, in each
compartment of the trough, to provide for future requirements.
7.3 Drainage
a) In the installation of GLT special care is necessary to ensure that track and other
drainage on the Infrastructure Managers property is not affected. Ramps over
drains, ducts and conduits under the GLT route shall be provided as directed and
approved.
b) During installation of GLT, care shall be taken to ensure that track and other
drainage is not affected. In particular GLT shall not act as a drain. When GLT acts
as a barrier to water, then transverse drainage ducts of not less than 100 cm2 cross
section shall be installed under the troughing at not greater than ten (10) metre
intervals. These shall be located at vantage points to enable the quick dispersal of
storm water.
c) Drainage ducts may be constructed from inverted GLT, pre-cast concrete box drains
or PVC or High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE) conduits.
7.4 Lids or Cover
a) The GLT lids shall be installed after all the cables are laid, otherwise the lids shall be
fitted as the GLT laying progresses.
b) The GLT shall be thoroughly cleaned prior to installing lids.
c) If the GLT is in the vicinity of pedestrian walkways, etc, the Constructor may be
required to fit the lids as the work progresses and reopen the GLT when required for
cable laying.
d) After the cables are laid all cable entry points to GLT shall be sealed with an
approved compound to prevent the entry of rodents and vermin. If the laying of
cables is not part of the construction of the cable route contract, the cable laying
Constructor shall be responsible for sealing the cable entries and refitting the lids
after cable laying.
e) Where PVC air lines are installed in GLT these shall be laid on top of the signalling
cables.
f) GLT covers or lids that cross over, or might be expected to be used as pathways,
are to be built to a suitable standard as agreed by the Infrastructure Manager, for
inclusion as part of a pathway.
g) Where GLT is being installed adjacent to or across pathways, the top surface should
be of suitable strength and of a non-slip finish to allow its use for pedestrian traffic.
The installation works must not render a pathway unsafe for use, and if so then
alternate access to at least the standard of the existing pathway must be provided.
h) GLT shall have reinforced lids interlocked with the trough. Individual lids should not
weigh any more than 25kgs. The final fitting of lids shall not take place until a cable
inspection by the Infrastructure Manager or their Representative has been
completed.
i) Polyethylene GLT shall have the lids secured to the trough by galvanised metal
screws. There shall be a minimum of six screws per lid (3 per side).
j) Lids are not to be left off the installed polyethylene GLT for any extended period due
to the risk of ground pressure pushing in the sides of the GLT making it difficult to fit
the lids properly.
k) Concrete troughing shall be fitted with lids and “RAILWAY SIGNAL AND
COMMUNICATIONS CABLES” embossed on the top of all lids in letters not less
than 50 mm high and 5 mm deep.
SECTION 8.0 GALVANISED STEEL TROUGHING (CABLE ROUTE

TYPE 6)
8.1 General
a) Galvanised steel troughing is the least preferred method of cable route construction
and shall be used only where there is no viable alternative.
b) GST shall be constructed from steel, hot dip galvanised to Australian Standard 1650
with a coating mass equal to Z430 or better.
c) In restricted areas, and only where clearance limitations demand it, such as in
tunnels and along platform walls, slim-line cable ladders may be used in lieu of the
steel troughing.
d) Cable jointing bays shall be provided as required to ensure that there is no net
reduction in trough capacity where cable joints occur and the bays shall be
supported to prevent any deflection or twist of the jointing bay or cable route.
e) Steel troughing on walls or in tunnels shall not obstruct access to staff refuge
recesses.
f) Galvanised steel troughing shall only be used with the prior approval of the
Infrastructure Manager) and this shall be confined to areas where it is not practical
to bury cable or install surface troughing, such as for cable routes across bridges
and culverts.
g) Galvanised steel troughing shall be constructed from three metre lengths of
galvanised steel troughing sizes specified as:
i. 150 mm (w) x 150 mm (d)
ii. 300 mm (w) x 150 mm (d)
iii. 450 mm (w) x 150 mm (d)
h) The GST shall be of such a size that there shall be a minimum of 25% spare
capacity after all cables have been installed to allow for some future use. If the
addition of proposed new cabling will result in the spare capacity being less than
10%; then a new trunking run is to be installed or an alternative installation method
needs to be adopted.
i) Where existing GST is near 100% capacity, investigations should be carried out to
ascertain whether any of the cables are redundant and could be removed, as this
will free up space.
j) All cut edges of troughing and lids or conduits shall be de-burred prior to galvanising
or painting.
k) Custom made troughing of mild steel is allowed for headers for connecting to
underground conduits. When provided it shall be galvanised or with the
Infrastructure Manager’s approval be painted with rust proof undercoat and two
coats of aluminium/Alkyd resin base paint. The undercoat shall be applied
immediately after welding. All welds shall be cleaned prior to undercoat.
l) GST and its mounting brackets crossing or passing metal conduits containing
flammable agents shall maintain minimum rigid spacing of 25 mm.
m) To achieve separation of Communication cables, signalling and HV signal power
cables, separate GST troughs shall be provided on the same post. The troughs for
communication cables shall be mounted on the top of the post and the troughs for
signalling and HV cables shall be side mounted in accordance with PTC Drawing
No. MS96 / 0083. It must be ensured that the separation between the bottom of the
communications trough and the top of the HV trough is greater than 150 mm.
n) GST shall be supported on galvanised steel, concrete posts or bracketed to walls or
structures as provided for in this specification.
o) GST support brackets & fittings shall be of sufficient strength to fully support a full
capacity load. They shall be fully protected from corrosion by hot galvanised dip.
Brackets and fittings shall not be in contact with or be attached to overhead
structures.
p) All GST shall be made continuous by the use of joining sleeves, and these sleeves
shall be installed midpoint between the trunking support posts.
q) Free standing supports:
i. Supporting posts shall be set at 3 metre intervals standing vertical.
ii. Every tenth post shall be constructed of steel (for earthing purposes)
iii. The minimum depth of post holes shall be the greater of 400 mm or one third
of the total length of the post.
iv. In unstable ground, posts shall be concreted into the ground for their entire
buried length.
v. GST support posts can be reinforced concrete, galvanised steel channel
sections or reclaimed rail with a minimum length of 800 mm.
r) The minimum height from ground level to bottom of the lowest trough on a post line
shall be 400 mm.
s) The maximum height from ground level shall be determined on the site survey, and
generally be not higher than 1800 mm (above water courses, etc).
t) Where existing GST is to be utilised by the Constructor, the Constructor shall
restore the GST to a suitable standard by replacing any damaged, corrugated or
missing sections and realigning the support posts.
u) All altered or new GST shall be designed and constructed to prevent the entry of
vermin.
v) Where track access is required; the GST shall be lowered to ground level and all
cabling either installed in conduits and pits as per this Standard, or in GLT with
protection from vehicular traffic (suitably sized and thickness one piece constructed
steel plates fastened securely to the GLT and as acceptable to the Infrastructure
Manager.
w) The Constructor should consider proposed troughing so that it does not interfere
with access pathways. Should GST cross any access pathway, then suitable
arrangements should be included to enable continuous access across the troughing
as it is installed and after completion.
x) The installation works must not render a pathway unsafe for use, and if so then
alternate access to at least the standard of the existing pathway must be provided.
8.2 Troughing on Bridges, Viaducts or in Tunnels

a) Where necessary, and subject to the Infrastructure Manager approval, a GST cable
route may be attached to the structures of bridges and viaducts. However, the
bridge or viaduct structures shall not be drilled, cut, bent, welded or otherwise
deformed to effect such an attachment. Suitable clips shall be provided for securing
brackets to bridge metalwork and all bolts shall have self-locking nuts.
b) Concrete bridges or viaducts shall not be drilled to fix brackets to the structure
without approval.
c) Where approval is granted to fasten to concrete bridges or viaducts, troughing
and/or brackets shall be affixed using stainless steel chemical anchors of 12 mm
diameter and 75 mm minimum anchoring depth. Expanding masonry anchors shall
not be used.
d) All attachment bolts shall have self locking nuts.
e) Troughing brackets shall have resilient rubber mountings installed to prevent
vibration damage.
f) Concrete bridges and viaducts shall not be drilled unless prior written approval has
been given by the Infrastructure Manager.
g) GST shall be made continuous by the use of joining sleeves. Jointing may be
welded, sleeved and bolted or riveted. Bolts or rivet heads shall be installed from the
inside of the trough to prevent damage to cables.
h) GST lids shall have galvanised chains welded between the lids and the troughing,
and as a minimum three (3) chains per lid with chain being a minimum diameter of
six (6) mm and a length of 200 mm each chain.
i) Under no circumstance shall troughing obstruct access to staff refuge recesses on
bridges and viaducts or in tunnels.
8.3 Wall Mounted Troughing

a) In tunnels, on platform faces and retaining walls where clearance is limited, the
minimum distance above rail level shall be 300 mm, but when restrictions apply due
to clearances, the troughing may be at rail level, and subject to approval by the
Infrastructure Manager.
b) No steel surfaces shall be installed directly on soil and GLT shall be utilised if
troughing is to be installed at ground level.
c) All troughing shall be made continuous by use of joining sleeves, and these sleeves
installed midpoint between the trunking supports.
d) Maximum height for mounting troughing shall be 1800 mm above rail level.
e) Support bracket intervals shall not exceed 3 metres.
f) Support brackets shall be secured to walls and rock faces by using masonry
anchors or other suitable fixing devices, maintaining a straight line. Mounting to
structural elements shall be submitted for approval of the Infrastructure Manager.
g) There shall be a minimum clearance of 25 mm between trough and the mounting
surface.
h) If the required clearance cannot be obtained using standard size troughing in a
limited clearance area, then slimline cable troughs or alternative methods of
securing cables may be considered subject to approval by the Infrastructure
Manager.
8.4 GST Over Culverts and Small Water Courses

a) In situations when the typical route of crossing bridges, culverts or water courses
(cables direct buried or installed within buried steel conduits) is not practical, bridges
may be constructed by using steel rails or other approved means to support the
steel troughing. The support structure shall be wide enough to carry the required
number of troughs and be sufficiently rigid to avoid undue deflection by the weight of
troughing, cables and foreign bodies up to 100 kg.
b) All troughing shall be made continuous by use of metal joining sleeves.
c) The troughing installation shall not impede the flow of water. Supports should be
positioned on the edge of the waterway and not in the centre of the flow.
d) The troughing lids shall have three (3) chains welded between each lid and
troughing, with chains installed as defined within this Standard.
8.5 Joining Sleeves
a) All troughing shall be made continuous by use of joining sleeves; these sleeves are
installed midway between troughing supports. The sleeve and troughing shall be
bolted together using cadmium plated or galvanised or similarly protected round
head bolts with bolt heads inside the GLT.
b) Jointing sleeves used shall be submitted for approval by the Infrastructure Manager.
8.6 Fitting of Lids

a) Lids shall be fitted on steel troughing so that positioning of the lid will overlap
approximately two thirds of the troughing. This will stagger the trough joint and the
lid joint.
b) The lids shall be secured with galvanised steel or stainless steel strapping located
approximately 100 mm from each end and one in the centre. There shall be three
straps per each 3 metre lid.
c) Where trunking has to be temporarily secured, the use of a fit for purpose sized
heavy duty black nylon cable ties may be permitted to strap lids. Nylon cable ties
are to be replaced with steel strapping when works are completed. Covers on
troughing over bridges and waterways are to always have chains fitted for all work
stages.
d) On bridges, viaducts and over waterways, troughing covers shall be fitted with
galvanised chain (link size: 20 mm, thickness 4 mm – 5 mm, length 250 mm – 300
mm) attached at both ends of the lid and in the centre section of the lid by welding or
bolted connection. The free end of the chain shall be attached in the same manner
to the steel troughing.
e) Where trunking straps and buckles are missing prior to commencement of works,
these shall be supplied and replaced by the Constructor.
f) Where any cabling has been installed or removed from troughing it is the
responsibility of the Constructor to ensure that all lids are refitted in the approved
manner at the completion of the works. Where lids are missing or the troughing
damaged either before construction commenced or as a result, the Constructor shall
ensure that the troughing has all lids refitted correctly and is free from holes, missing
sections etc to resist the entry of rodents.
g) Where the lids cannot be correctly fitted due to overloading of the troughing, then
additional troughing shall be installed by the Constructor.
8.7 Above Ground Troughing to Ground Level Troughing/Trenches/Pits

a) The transition between the steel troughing to other service routes shall be made with
a purpose built adaptor (blister) manufactured to the same material standards
applying to the GST. The blister shall be of sufficient size to accommodate all
conduits including spares, from the buried cable route. The blister shall be installed
so that cables are fully supported and are fully protected from mechanical damage.
b) The transition between the steel troughing to other service routes shall be installed
so that cables are fully supported and are fully protected from mechanical damage.
c) Open ends of the blister and conduits shall be sealed with Silastic or other approved
compounds to prevent the entry of rodents.
d) Cables shall be protected from mechanical damage by using steel galvanised
conduit or heavy duty flexible orange PVC conduit .This protection shall extend to
totally cover the cable from its point of exit from the troughing to either its entry into
an equipment housing or enclosure, or to where the cable is exposed for attachment
to rail.
e) Where troughing is to enter a pit, the pit shall be installed flush with ground level.
Where the final ground level is not certain at the time of pit installation, the Constructor
shall ensure before the conclusion of the works, that no pits are left protruding above
the ground by either re installation or the use of “A” grade 20 mm crushed rock etc.
8.8 Above Ground Troughing Cable Entry/Exit to Trackside Equipment

a) The cable entry/exit shall be fitted with grommets or use conduit or conduit glands to
protect the cable insulation from being damaged by sharp edges.
b) Steel couplings shall be used when:
i. Cable enters/exits the side of the steel troughing.
ii. Cable enters/exits the bottom of the extended chamber.
iii. Cable enters/exits the bottom of the steel troughing.
c) Entry and exit points shall be permanently sealed to prevent the entry of water or
rodents
8.9 Cabling Through High Voltage Areas

a) At no time shall entry be made into "HIGH VOLTAGE" areas adjacent to or inside
substations, tie stations or switchyards unless previously arranged and
accompanied by the Infrastructure Manager or their Representative.
b) An earth mat is provided around high voltage locations as part of the earth
protection arrangements for the high voltage installations. All signalling and
communication cables that are installed through or near an earth mat shall be
protected in PVC conduits or ground level troughing.
c) Where copper communication cables are required to be run into high voltage
earthed locations such as substations, power sectioning huts and high voltage
transformer locations, the cable shall take the shortest route, through the earth mat.
d) Cable joints shall not be installed within the Earth Potential Rise (EPR) area.
8.10 Arrangements at or near Overhead Wiring Structures

a) Steel troughing shall not be installed within 2 metres of the overhead traction wiring.
b) Where the Infrastructure Manager has approved that metallic troughing or ladder is
acceptable to pass within 2 metres of any overhead traction wiring structure, it shall
be fitted with an insulated joint at least 2 metres distant from each side of the
overhead traction wiring structure.
c) GST and its mounting brackets shall not be fixed to or installed within 75 mm of any
part of an overhead traction wiring structure.
8.11 Troughing Route Capacity

a) One or more troughs shall be installed to provide the necessary capacity to
accommodate all the main and local signalling, and low voltage power cables in the
cable route plus an allowance of not less than 25% spare capacity shall be provided
for future requirements.
b) Additional and separate troughs shall be provided for :-
i. High voltage power cables
ii. Communications cable
c) Steel air lines shall not be installed in GST. However, flexible PVC air lines up to 25
mm bore may be installed on top of signalling cables in GST.
8.12 Bends
a) The minimum radius of all bends in the steel troughing route shall comply with the
requirements of this Standard.
b) All bends shall be smooth and rounded to prevent damage to or pressure on cables
due to sharp corners or edges.
c) Changes in direction in the vertical or horizontal plane of the troughing route shall be
at a maximum angle of 22.5 degrees in all cases. Where, for example, 90 degree
bends are required, they shall be made up of four 22.5 degree bends.
8.13 Mounting Brackets and Fittings
a) Troughing support brackets, fixings and other fittings shall be of sufficient strength to
support the troughing without permanent deflection when loaded to full capacity with
cable plus incidental loads up to 100kg applied at any point on the trough. A safety
factor of not less than three (3) shall be applied to the brackets.
b) All components shall be protected against corrosion or made of corrosion resistant
materials, which will provide a service life of at least 30 years.
c) Troughing brackets shall generally not extend past the side of the trough by more
than 25 mm.
8.14 Transition between GST/GLT/Buried Cable Route

a) An acceptable arrangement for transition between the GST and GLT is shown on
Drawing No. 112000/8/1 and for transition between GST and buried route on
Drawing 112000/8/2.
b) The transition between GST and ULX and URX's, shall be made with a purpose built
adaptor manufactured to the same material standards applying to galvanised steel
troughing. The adaptor shall be of sufficient size to accommodate all conduits,
including spares, from the buried cable route, ULX or URX, and shall extend from
the cable route to within 300 mm of ground level.
c) The void between the adaptor and the conduits shall be sealed.
d) Modifications to the GST route to accommodate the adaptor shall not result in
cables being unsupported over lengths exceeding 600 mm.
e) Acceptable arrangements for GST entering pits are as shown on Drawing No.
112000/8/3.
8.15 Steel Troughing Arrangements at Entries to Equipment Boxes

Drawing No. 112000/14/3 illustrates the preferred arrangement for steel troughing at the
entries to Equipment Boxes for typical site conditions. This arrangement shall be applied
as far as possible for steel troughing entries to all Equipment Boxes.
SECTION 9.0 CABLE LADDER (CABLE ROUTE TYPES 7, 8, 9)

9.1 General
a) Cable ladder shall be provided where clearance limitations prevent the installation of
GST or other types of cable route, such as in tunnels and along platform walls.
b) Cable ladder shall be manufactured from marine grade aluminium or stainless steel
or, in areas that are not subject to ground water leaching through the tunnel or
platform wall, galvanised steel.
c) Ladder widths should generally be restricted to 150 mm, 300 mm, 450 mm or 600
mm. However other widths may be used if space limitations dictate.
d) Cable ladder shall not be installed within 2 metres of the overhead wiring, except
where the tunnel profile precludes this clearance being achieved.
e) The ladder shall be of adequate strength to support the cable route when full to
capacity with cable plus an additional load of 10%, or 10 kg whichever is greater,
without permanent deflection.
f) Cable ladder cable route shall be generally constructed using the maximum
available lengths of cable ladder. Shorter lengths of cable ladder shall only be used
to accommodate changes in direction of the route, or to suit equipment positions.
g) Cable ladder cable route shall be constructed and the ladder supported in
accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications or recommendations.
9.2 Cable Ladder Environment
a) Cable ladder cable route is generally required in areas where clearance limitations
demand it. These areas include tunnels and along platform walls.
b) The environment in tunnels and platform walls suffers from:
i. Contaminated groundwater carrying highly corrosive products leaching
through the wall.
ii. Stray electrical currents.
iii. High levels of ground born vibration.
iv. High velocity winds with buffeting from train movements.
c) The design, construction of and the materials used in the cable route, shall be
suitable for this environment.
9.3 Cable Ladder Capacity

a) One or more cable ladders shall be installed to provide the necessary capacity to
accommodate all the main and local signalling cables, and low voltage power cables
in the cable route plus an allowance of not less than 25% spare capacity shall be
provided for future requirements.
b) Separation of cables shall be as required within this Standard.
9.4 Bends
a) The minimum radius of all bends in the ladder route shall comply with the
requirements of this Standard.
b) All bends shall be smooth and rounded to prevent damage to or pressure on cables
due to sharp corners or edges.
c) Changes in direction in the horizontal and vertical planes of the ladder route shall be
constructed using the appropriate preformed bends and tees from the ladder
manufacturer’s range.
9.5 Joints and Expansion Joints

a) Joints in the cable ladder shall use the appropriate splice plate from the ladder
manufacturer’s range and be fixed using the recommended size of fastener.
Fastener material shall not corrode or cause corrosion of the ladder in the
environment in which the ladder is installed.
b) Expansion joints shall be installed in the ladder route at intervals of not greater than
100 metres using appropriate splice plates and purpose designed fasteners.
Attachment to brackets between expansion joints shall be purpose designed to
permit movement of the ladder due to change in temperature
9.6 Mounting Brackets and Fittings

a) Cable ladder brackets, supports and fittings shall be of sufficient strength to support
the loading specified within this Standard without deflection or distortion of bracket
or support.
b) Ladder supports shall be secured to concrete (except for pre-stressed or post
tensioned structures) using stainless steel expanding masonry anchors. Chemical
anchors with stainless steel bolts shall be used in pre-stressed or post tensioned
concrete structures and in brickwork.
c) Attachment to steel structures shall be by clamp type fastenings.
d) Cable ladder brackets and supports shall be constructed of materials that are
compatible with the ladder material and will not result in electrolytic corrosion under
the installed environment.
e) All bolts shall include self locking nuts or other nut locking methods.
9.7 Cable Ladder in Tunnels or Through Under-bridges

a) Cable ladder and ladder supports and brackets in tunnels or under-bridges shall be
installed clear of water springs, seepage and weep holes. Support centres shall not
exceed 2 metres except where it can be proven that the ladder to be used and the
support system is capable of carrying longer spans with the loading specified in this
Standard.
b) A minimum clearance of 25 mm shall be maintained between the cable ladder and
the walls of the tunnel or under-bridge.
c) Unless otherwise approved, main cable ladder shall be mounted such that the
lowest part of the ladder is at least 3,800mm above rail level. The ladder shall not
obstruct access to personnel refuge recesses under any circumstances.
d) Cable ladder on an irregular or rough finished tunnel wall (such as a shotcrete
finished wall) shall be maintained in generally straight alignment by using stand-off
pillars as necessary.
e) The Constructor shall ensure that all cable ladders, fittings, brackets, supports and
lidding are securely fixed and fastened before trains are permitted to run on the
track adjacent to the installation.
9.8 Transition between Cable Ladder/Cable Ladder/GST/GLT/Buried

Route
a) The transition between different cable ladder sizes shall be made using purpose
built adaptors from the ladder manufacturer’s product range
b) The transition between cable ladder and GST, GLT, pits or buried route including
ULX and URX shall be made using purpose built adaptors fabricated from the same
material as the cable ladder.
c) The adaptor for ULX and URX shall be of sufficient size to accommodate all
conduits from the ULX or URX, including spare conduits and shall extend from the
cable route to within 300 mm of ground level.
d) The void between the adaptor and the conduits shall be sealed.
e) Modifications to the cable ladder to accommodate the adaptor shall not result in
cables in the cable ladder being unsupported over lengths exceeding 600 mm.
9.9 Cable Ladder Arrangements at Connection to Local Cable Route

and Equipment
a) The connection of the main cable ladder route to local cable route and equipment
shall be made using purpose built tee pieces from the ladder manufacturer’s product
range.
9.10 Cable Ladder Covers

a) Cable ladder covers are only required where the bottom of the cable ladder is less
than 2.4 m above the adjacent rail level unless otherwise specified.
b) Covers shall not be fitted until the cables have been inspected and approved.
c) Cable ladder covers shall overlap the adjacent covers by a minimum of 20 mm
(away from the direction of normal train movements) and shall be secured with
stainless steel straps, one 100 mm from each end of each lid plus additional straps
as required to ensure a maximum of 600 mm intervals between straps for 600 mm
wide ladder and a maximum of 800 mm intervals between straps for other ladder
widths.
SECTION 10.0 UNDER LINE AND UNDER ROAD CROSSINGS

(CABLE ROUTE TYPE 10)
10.1 General
a) Under Line Crossings (ULX ) and Under Road Crossings (URX )shall be constructed
by boring and installed as per Drawing No. 112000/5/7,except where access for
boring machinery is not available or the nature of the terrain or the size of ULX or
URX renders boring impractical. Boring shall, in principle, be in accordance with the
Australian Railways Association Code of Practice and only with the approval of the
b) For the installation of conduits under rail lines and under roads; the directional or
traditional bore method is preferred. Any areas within the length of the bore;
between the wall of the bore and the installed conduits shall be filled and compacted
to prevent subsidence of the surrounding area.
c) The Constructor shall comply with the requirements of the Infrastructure Manager,
and to the relevant local government or VicRoads authority and the roadway; paths,
kerbs and drainage shall be restored to their satisfaction.
d) Except as otherwise specified, all ULX and URX shall be lined with UPVC or HDPE
conduits of sufficient wall thickness to guarantee no loss of cross sectional area and
less than 10% loss of diameter in any direction under track or road impact loadings.
e) All ULX and URX shall include a minimum of 25% spare capacity with an absolute
minimum of 3 spare conduits in main route ULX and URX and one spare conduit in
local route ULX and URX. No spare conduits are required for individual track circuit
feeds or tail cables to individual items of equipment.
f) Where a single large diameter conduit is installed by boring, spare capacity in this
conduit, provided it is not less than 50% of the cross sectional area, may be
accepted in place of additional conduits. Following the cable installation the spare
capacity in large conduits shall be sealed at each end of the conduit.
g) Steel conduit shall not be used for a ULX; under or in the vicinity of any electrified
track.
h) Spare conduits shall be cleaned, fitted with a polypropylene draw wire suitably
anchored at each end of the conduit and then sealed with proprietary end caps to
prevent the ingress of dirt, etc.
10.2 Depth of ULX / URX

a) The top of ULX conduits shall be a minimum of 1200 mm below rail level or 800 mm
below natural ground level which ever is the deeper.
b) The top of URX conduits shall be not less than 1200 mm below road level or 800
mm below natural ground level whichever is the deeper.
c) Buried route on each end of the ULX or URX shall be graded as required to line up
with the ULX or URX pits or cable route.
d) Conduits shall be provided in the ULX and URX to segregate the various cables as
specified within this Standard.
e) The use of water to soften the under track or under road formation for boring
purposes is not permissible.
10.3 ULX or URX by Open Excavation
a) Where it is not practical to install an under line or under road crossing by the boring
process, the ULX or URX shall be installed by open excavation, trenching,
backfilling and compaction in accordance with this Standard.
b) In continuous rock areas, permission may be given for the depth of ULX and URX to
be reduced. In such cases the conduits shall be placed in a trench chased into the
rock and encased in concrete with a minimum concrete cover of 150 mm.
c) The following inspections shall be carried out by the Constructor:-
i. Three days after the construction of the ULX to determine if there is any
subsidence and remedy where necessary.
ii. Three days after any remedial work to determine if the subsidence has been
halted and remedy where necessary.
iii. Two weeks after construction of the ULX if there is subsidence or other defect
and remedy as necessary.
d) In each case, the Infrastructure Manager shall be immediately advised if any
defect is found.
10.4 Under Line Crossings (ULX)

a) Trenched ULX shall be at right angles to the tracks and, in general, be located at
least two sleeper spacings from any rail joints. They shall also be a minimum of 2
metres clear of the movable parts of point and of the V-crossing of any points leads.
b) ULX conduits shall extend not less than 4 metres beyond the outer rail on each side
of the track, except where the Infrastructure Manager’s rail corridor ends within 4
metres, or there is a physical obstruction that precludes this requirement or with the
Infrastructure Manager’s approval.
c) A cable pit (in accordance with the provisions of this Standard) shall be provided at
each end of main cable route ULX conduits.
d) Where an ULX has been made and the sleepers have not been removed, in addition
to the above the following shall apply:
i. The ballast shall be compacted with a wacker packer or similar in layers of
150mm.
ii. Where it is difficult to use the wacker packer or similar under the sleepers, as
minimum, make sure that the ballast is restored under the sleepers and tamp
the ballast under the sleeper with a vibrating tamping head (eg hand-held
tamper).
iii. Compact the area thoroughly between the sleepers.
iv. It may not be possible to compact the ballast shoulders that are outside of the
sleepers.
10.5 Under Road Crossings (URX)

a) When it is necessary to install a cable route under a roadway it shall be planned and
constructed so as to cause the minimum disruption possible to the users of the
roadway.
b) URX conduits shall extend under nature strips and pathways into the Infrastructure
Managers property on each side of the roadway sufficiently to provide a cable pit at
each end of the URX that is wholly within the Infrastructure Manager’s property.
c) Where the URX is wholly within the Infrastructure Manager’s property, the cable pits
shall be at least 2400 mm clear of the roadway edge.
d) Where the Infrastructure Manager’s property is unfenced or where the URX is wholly
within the Infrastructure Manager’s property, rail posts shall be installed on the road
side of the pits to protect them from vehicular traffic.
e) All URX works shall comply to VicRoads Standard Specification for Road works and
Bridge Works
SECTION 11.0 CABLE ROUTE WITH SHARED AND MIXED

SERVICES (CABLE ROUTE TYPE 11)
a) Cable route for shared and mixed services shall be installed as per Drawing No.
112000/5/8
b) Where communications cables are in the same trench as signalling and power
cables, then:
i. All communications cables shall be housed in conduits
ii. The minimum separation between communications cables and signalling and
power cables shall be as specified within this Standard.
iii. The communications cables shall be above the signalling and HV power
cables for the total length of the cable run
SECTION 12.0 CABLE ROUTE WITH SIGNALLING,

COMMUNICATIONS AND SUBSTATION/TRACTION
SYSTEMS (CABLE ROUTE TYPE 12)
a) Cable route for signalling, communications and high voltage sub station/traction
systems shall be installed in accordance to Drawings No. 112000/5/10,
112000/5/11, 112000/5/12, 112000/5/13
b) All installations shall comply with AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and all Standards as
listed within this Standard.
SECTION 13.0 STEEL PIPE CABLE ROUTE (CABLE ROUTE TYPE

13)
a) Steel pipe cable route shall be only be used where there is no other alternative and
only for local cable routes.
b) The pipe shall be a 50 mm minimum diameter nominal internal bore medium
galvanised steel pipe (AS 1074) attached to the platform coping wall and tunnel
walls using stainless steel full saddles at centres not exceeding 1500 mm. Saddle
connections shall also be installed adjacent to each side of any change in direction
of the pipe and adjacent to any connection to equipment.
c) Saddles, other than those at changes in direction, shall allow for pipe expansion and
contraction. Where necessary, an expansion sleeve shall be provided in the pipe.
d) The saddles shall be attached to the walls with stainless steel expanding masonry
anchors (concrete) or chemical anchors with no less than 8 mm diameter stainless
steel bolts (brickwork).
e) Removable sections of the cable route shall be made inclusive of the installation; to
allow for cable installation.
SECTION 14.0 CABLE PITS, CABLE JOINTING PITS AND CABLE

TURNING CHAMBERS
14.1 Cable Pits and Chambers
a) Pits and chambers shall be installed with the top at ground level, clear of roads and
pathways and shall remain within the property line of the VicTrack Rail Reserve.
Communications pits may be found outside the rail reserve, depending on the
network design.
b) The alignment of square pits and chambers shall be parallel to the property line.
c) The size and depth of pits and chambers shall be calculated to accommodate the
particular cable route requirements, access requirements for cable installation and
cable jointing activities. The internal size of all pits and cable turning chambers shall
provide for the minimum bending radius of the largest cable to be installed in them
d) Pit and chamber entries and exits shall be kept to a minimal size. All sharp edges
and burrs shall be removed to prevent cable damage. All cable entries into pits and
cable turning chambers shall have large radius rounded edges to prevent damage to
cables during installation and to eliminate the danger of cables bearing on sharp
corners or edges after installation.
e) Pits and chambers shall not be installed any closer than 3 metres from the outside
edge of the closest running rail; unless otherwise approved by the Infrastructure
Manager.
f) The end of conduits shall not protrude more than 50 mm into the pit space.
g) Conduits are to enter the ends of pits unless site conditions restrict the space to the
extent where that is not possible. Entries through the sides of pits are problematic
with optical fibre cable due to the higher minimum bending radius required. Approval
should be sought from the Infrastructure Manager (and the VicTrack Network
Maintenance Manager where relevant) before conduits and pits are installed. Long
radius bends should be used at pit entries.
h) Pits and chambers installed in open areas shall be protected on two diagonal
corners by white painted rail post (or an agreed alternative structure) to prevent
damage by vehicles. If there is a joint in a pit then the associated protection posts
are to be painted yellow.
i) Buried cables shall access a pit or chamber via 100 mm or suitable size conduits
that extend a minimum 2 metres from the outside entry point. Entry holes shall be
100 mm minimum from the base of the pit or chamber. All conduits are to enter from
the ends of pits and not from under the pit.
j) The exterior entry points for conduits into pits shall be sealed by a mortar compound
(ratio 4:1 sand/cement) or both externally and internally using an approved,
expanding silicone or similar based type sealant.
k) Ground Level Troughing shall rest on a bed of “A” grade 20 mm crushed rock or
clean fill 150 mm in depth for approximately 4 metres before opening into the pit or
chamber.
l) All pits associated with GST to equipment box interface shall have minimum
dimensions of 600 mm x 600 mm as shown on Drawing No. 112000/14/3.
m) All pits and chambers shall have a prepared foundation of “A” grade 20 mm crushed
rock not less than 150 mm thick. The base of open ended conduit chambers shall
have a compacted base compound (ratio 8:1 crushed rock/cement) prior to
installation. Because of the time required for the cement mix to cure and for the
packing to solidify around an open ended pit or chamber, a temporary support using
a length of treated pine or red gum timber shall be placed either side of centre,
embedded in the crushed rock/cement base.
n) Concrete turning chambers shall be constructed of reinforced concrete and be fitted

with a drainage sump and associated drainage.
o) Round chambers for;
i. Cable routes to a depth of 800 mm shall allow a person to comfortably work

within the chamber
ii. Main cable routes and under line and under road crossings where depths are
1200 mm require chambers 1 metre minimum in diameter and shall allow a
person to stand within the chamber and work comfortably (or a suitable
alternative as approved by the Infrastructure Manager)
iii. Depths greater than 1200 mm require an independently verified engineering

design to be submitted to the Infrastructure Manager for approval
p) Pits or chambers containing communications cable shall not be installed in locations

where the EPR (Earth Potential Rise) exceeds 430 V. In locations where the EPR
exceeds the maximum voltage specified above, then preparation and action shall
conform to Australian Standard AS/ACIF S009 Installation requirements for
customer cabling (Wiring Rules)
q) All pits and chambers shall be sealed against the entry of water and vermin proofed
by an approved method.
r) Concrete, concrete block and brick pits and cable turning chambers shall have a
concrete floor of not less than 75 mm thick.
s) Pits that have high voltage traction substation cables shall have dimensions no less
than;
i. For 1500 volts installation areas- 1500 mm by 1500 mm by 1500 mm deep

ii. For 22,000 volt installation areas- 2 metres by 2 metres by 1500 mm deep
iii. Refer also to drawings within this Standard and Infrastructure Managers
minimum requirements and type approved materials
14.2 Access into pits
a) Pits and cable turning chambers in excess of 1200 mm deep shall have rungs
(minimum width 300 mm constructed from 20 mm diameter galvanised steel rod or
other approved material) cast into the wall at 300 mm (maximum) centres, to permit
safe and easy entry and exit from the pit or chamber.
b) Alternatively, a galvanised steel ladder (of suitable length, with minimum width of
300 mm and 20 mm diameter rungs) fixed securely to the wall at the top and the
bottom of the ladder, may be provided.
14.3 Drainage of Pits
a) Drainage arrangements shall be provided at the base of each pit and cable turning
chamber. Pits and chambers in areas of clay, rocks and other areas where excess
water run-off and similar are encountered; shall each have a drainage system in
place to cater for the excess water condition, and where identified necessary shall
further have a sump and associated drainage system installed. These may include
installing drainage conduits to the nearest approved railway drain or to a public
stormwater drain or natural drainage course, where possible.
b) If no suitable drains exist, or where impracticable to achieve a sump and drainage

system, then a gravel drainage sump or conduit to the side of an embankment shall
be installed. Gravel drainage sumps shall consist of 20 mm aggregate with a
minimum depth of 300 mm.
14.4 Types of Pits and Turning Chambers
Construction of pits and chambers shall conform to one of the following types, and shall
be Infrastructure Manager approved;
a) Reinforced fibreglass AS3572

b) Reinforced concrete chamber AS3600
c) Polyethylene conduit AS4130, class 3 minimum for depths to 1200 mm
d) High density polyethylene pit Telecom approved AS3900;
e) Precast concrete conduit AS4058, class Y or class Z
f) Precast Concrete
g) Concrete block
14.5 Cast on Site type Pits
a) Cast in situ concrete pits and cable turning chambers less than or equal to 1500 mm
deep shall be constructed with a minimum wall thickness of 100 mm with a layer of
F82 galvanised mesh reinforcement. The reinforcement shall be located to provide a
minimum cover of 50 mm from the outside of the wall.
b) Cast in situ concrete pits and cable turning chambers deeper than 1,500mm shall be
constructed with a minimum wall thickness of 150 mm with two layers of F62
galvanised mesh reinforcement. The reinforcement shall have a cover of 50 mm.
c) Pits and cable turning chambers constructed from concrete block shall include
appropriate steel reinforcement.
14.6 Pit and Chamber Covers and Collars:

a) Covers shall be labelled “RAILWAYS SIGNALS & COMMUNICATIONS” on their
outer surface. This label must be durable and weatherproof. Where pits are installed
in trafficable areas; the pit should be identified by an approved cable marker post in
close proximity to the pit, and with a label identifying cable pit offsets and services
installed within the pit.
b) Pit covers for general use shall be either commercial standard concrete composition
pit covers or 6 mm mild steel checker plate fitted with a security chain and lifting
handles. All parts shall be galvanised.
c) Light duty Gatic type pre-filled type pit covers or similar Infrastructure Manager
approved pit cover shall be used for pedestrian footways and platforms. The precast
collar to be constructed around Gatic covers shall have a thickness of 120 mm.
Backfill shall be compacted and level with the collar and surrounds.
d) Heavy duty Gatic Highway loading pre-filled type covers shall be used for roadways
and heavy access paths and be rated for the vehicular or pedestrian load applicable
to the location. The precast collar to be constructed around Gatic covers shall have
a thickness of 200 mm. Backfill shall be compacted and level with the collar and
surrounds.
e) Collars for pits or chambers other than Gatic shall be reinforced concrete of A1
20MPa minimum strength rating. The collar shall have a minimal cross sectional
area of 200 mm x 200 mm encircling the top perimeter of the pit or chamber.
f) General purpose pits in open areas do not require concrete collars; however a
backfill of compacted rock in accordance to AS3798, and utilising 20 mm “A” grade
crushed rock shall be provided to a depth of 150 mm and extend 500 mm from the
outer perimeter of the pit.
g) All cable pit lids shall be in accordance to AS3996 Access Covers and Grates.
h) Covers on all other pits and cable turning chambers shall be capable of carrying
incidental live loads of 1.5 kpa and shall be sectioned as necessary to limit the
maximum weight of each section to 45 kg.
i) Gatic or similar covers shall be provided with recessed sockets or eyes for lifting
with appropriate tools. All other covers shall be provided with recessed or retractable
handles so that the cover can be removed without tools.
j) Except for covers in platforms, paved areas, sealed or unsealed roadways and
pathways, covers shall be secured to pits and cable turning chambers with
Infrastructure Manager type locks or similar approved lockable removable covers to
guard against theft, vandalism and unauthorised entry.
k) Communications pits installed outside the rail boundary shall be labelled with
“VicTrack Communications”
14.7 Location of Cable Pits

a) Cable pits shall be provided;
i. At each end of main cable route ULX and URX
ii. At points where the main cable route and cables exit the buried route.
iii. Where Type 3 or Type 4 cable route is specified placed at intervals of not
greater than 300 metres.
iv. At interfaces of Type 3 or Type 4 routes with other type cable routes
v. Where Type 3 or Type 4 routes change direction.
vi. Cable pits are also required at entries to equipment buildings and the
construction of these will form part of the work covered for the relevant
building specification.
vii. At signal mast and gantry locations
viii. At point machine locations
ix. At level crossing locations
x. At other identified signalling infrastructure locations
xi. At all ends and major entry points to under line, under road and through
platforms and crossings.
xii. Where cable routes pass through station platforms, these shall have pits
installed no further apart than sixty (60) metres.
b) Where the main buried cable route has conduits installed along its length for
signalling, communications, airlines or similar purposes; then pits and chambers
shall be installed at points where there is a major change of direction greater than
25 degrees, or where services leave the main cable route.
c) The maximum length between adjacent pits shall be 300 metres and nominally 150
metres.
d) Where pits and cable turning chambers are installed on embankments, protection
against erosion around and adjacent to the pit and special drainage arrangements
shall be provided to ensure that there will be no undermining or deterioration of the
embankment during periods of heavy rain.
e) Where it is identified that a defined length of spare or slack cable is required for
either;
i. Future use
ii. Additional Cable jointing purposes
iii. Temporary works
iv. Other identified purpose/s
14.8 Location of Cable Jointing Pits

a) Cable jointing pits shall be provided wherever:
i. Fibre optic cable and communications cable is to be jointed and a suitable
communications cable termination cabinet does not exist. All cables shall
enter from the longer ends of fibre optic and communications cable pits and
not from side entries.
ii. Jointing of cabling near signals or signalling infrastructure is required
b) Consideration shall be given to the need to have vehicular access for the jointing of
cables and splicing of optical fibre cables, and as such cable jointing pits shall where
possible be positioned where road access is available.
14.9 Location of Cable Turning Chambers

a) Cable turning chambers shall be installed in GLT, GST and cable ladder routes
wherever cables are required to change direction sharply and either:
i. The minimum bend radius for the cable cannot be achieved within the GLT,
GST or cable ladder or,
ii. The cable is likely to bear heavily against sharp edges at the bend.
14.10Preferred Type Cable Pits

a) Preferred type cable jointing pits and lids for rail signalling use are as within this
Standard and refer to drawings 112000 / 5 /14, drawings 112000 / 5 /15, drawings
112000 / 5 /16
b) The Infrastructure Manager’s type approved list should also be consulted for all
further types of approved pits and lids as acceptable for use.
SECTION 15.0 CABLE ROUTE TO TRACKSIDE EQUIPMENT

15.1 Location of Equipment
a) No equipment shall be located within the Standard Structure Gauge envelope as
defined within VRIOGS 0001 Structural Gauge Envelopes-Minimum clearances for
Infrastructure adjacent to the Railway.
b) All cable routes and equipment shall be installed in accordance with Plan STD
R0016 Signal Equipment Service Area typical clearances, and general
requirements.
c) If site constraints are such that the equipment cannot be installed without
infringement of this envelope, details of the required infringement shall be referred
for specific approval by the Infrastructure Manager.
15.2 Signals
a) In general, local cables from equipment housing to signalling equipment shall be run
in PVC conduits.
b) Where the equipment is more than 50 metres from the equipment housing the
cables may be run in the main cable route for a proportion of the cable run.
c) Local cables in a main cable trench need not be in conduit if the main cables are
direct buried.
15.3 Train Protection and Signal Enforcement

a) The signalling and civil works shall be carried out as per current standard plans and
agreed site layout plans for these items of infrastructure; such as various types of
trainstops, train protection warning system (TPWS) items and similar.
b) The Constructor shall supply all conduits and connections and install trainstops in
accordance with Plan No. STD G0075 and STD G0076
15.4 Points
a) The cable route and cabling to the points to provide for point controls and detection
circuits shall be provided in addition to cabling to a telephone post in the vicinity of
the points (where applicable and as identified by the Infrastructure Manager).
b) From buried cable routes the cables to the points equipment shall remain buried
then be brought up to the ground surface in 100 mm diameter conduit positioned
2500 mm from the rail face, adjacent to the points machine cable entry end.
c) From ground level troughing (GLT), which is within the track formation, the cable
from the GLT to the points machine shall be run in surface mounted flexible, heavy
duty, orange PVC conduits.
d) Where the GLT is not in the track formation or is on the other side of an access road
to the points machine, the cables shall be buried 800 mm deep between the GLT
and 2500 mm from the rail face and treated as for buried cable. 100 mm conduit
shall also be provided where the cable descends from the GLT into the ground.
e) Similar requirements shall apply to steel troughing routes.
15.5 Station Buildings, Platform Signals and Indicators

a) Cabling to platform signals and indicators shall be run in pipes buried in the
platforms or in conduits or cable ducts in or on station buildings or other structures
subject to specific approval. Exposed conduits or cable ducts shall be made as
unobtrusive as possible and painted to blend with the supporting structure. (Note:
On some stations, which are heritage listed, posts that more closely match the
period architecture of the station may be required.
15.6 Boom Barriers and Level Crossing

a) The signalling and civil works shall be carried out as per current VRIOGS standard
plans and agreed site layout plans.
15.7 Pedestrian Gates

plans and agreed site layout plans
15.8 Train Stabling Gates

plans and agreed site layout plans
15.9 Signal Post Mounted Telephones (SPT)

a) Signal Post Telephone’s are installed at identified signals and signal gantries; for
train driver’s use in case of emergency or during delays or interruptions to railway
traffic.
b) A suitably drained, graded and level surface shall be provided for persons using the
telephone. Where the telephone is immediately adjacent to the danger zone, a
galvanised steel conduit railing shall be provided between the telephone and the
danger zone.
c) The Constructor is to provide pedestrian access to the SPT, to enable train crew to
alight from the cab of a train stopped within 20 metres of the post phone and walk
safely to/from and use the SPT.
SECTION 16.0 SIGNAL MAST AND SIGNAL GANTRY

FOUNDATIONS
16.1 Location of Signal Masts and Signal Gantry Foundations
a) During the detailed site survey, the actual positions for the installation of signal
masts and signal gantries shall be established in accordance with the requirements
laid down in the relevant sections of VRIOGS Standards; with regards to designed
location and physical positioning of the relevant signal masts and gantries.
b) The foundations for signal masts and signal gantries shall be installed at the position
indicated on the corresponding "Signal Sighting Working Committee
Recommendation" form and in accordance with an agreed upon signal arrangement
plan/s or similar.
c) Each signal mast shall be positioned with relation to rail level, the structure gauge
and shall be given a kilometrage, GPS coordinate or a distance from a well defined
structure such as a bridge, platform, gantry or overhead wiring structure.
d) Signal mast foundations shall be located at the distance from rail and height above
rail shown on the signal sighting working committee recommendation form.
e) Signal gantry foundations shall be located at the location shown on signal sighting
working committee recommendation form and at the distance from nearest rail and
height relative to rail level shown on the engineering plans for the gantry. The
distance from centre of the Broad Gauge track to the closest edge of any part of a
signal or signal mast shall be no less than 2400 mm (Metropolitan Areas) and 2500
mm (Country Areas) and shall be in strict accordance with VRIOGS 0001 Structural
Gauge Envelopes-Minimum clearances for Infrastructure adjacent to the Railway.
f) Where signal masts and signal gantries cannot be located adjacent to the track in
the correct position due to the closeness of adjacent tracks or some other
obstruction, an alternative solution shall be engineered and submitted to the
Infrastructure Manager for approval.
16.2 Construction of Signal Mast Foundations

a) The foundations may be pre cast concrete or cast in situ and refer to plan STD
G0103 Signal Mast Assembly.
b) That portion of signal mast foundations visible above ground shall be neatly finished
with smooth surfaces free of voids and shall have chamfered edges.
c) Square foundations shall be parallel to the track.
d) For signal masts in rail cuttings the Constructor shall, where necessary, cut back
and shore the bank to provide space for the signal foundation.
e) Concrete or brick retaining walls shall be built wherever there is a danger of erosion
or subsidence of the bank or cutting due to the signal placement.
f) With the Infrastructure Manager’s approval and appropriate engineering certification;

in areas of solid rock it will be permissible for the signal mast holding-down bolts to
be grouted into the rock. The rock shall be excavated to a depth of at least 200 mm
and a concrete cap shall be keyed into this to form the signal mast foundation to the
required height relative to rail level. Holding down bolts shall be keyed a further 300
mm into the rock.
16.3 Construction of Signal Gantry Foundations

a) Signal gantry foundations shall be of such a size and depth to adequately support
the gantry, signal cages, signals, walkway and handrail, incidental loadings from
maintenance personnel, overhead wiring loads (where applicable) and resist wind
loadings, in the terrain category as applicable to the site location, for wind velocities
up to 160 kph.
b) The Constructor shall supply engineering drawings detailing the requirements for the
construction of all signal gantry foundations. The provisions of those drawings shall
be strictly adhered to in the construction of the foundations.
c) Refer to Plan STD G0205 Signal Gantry General Assembly for details of standard
signal gantry.
16.4 Backfilling and Levelling Site

a) When the signal mast and signal gantry foundations are installed and approved, the
Constructor shall backfill the foundations, level the site and remove any surplus
spoil.
16.5 Handrails
a) Handrails shall also be provided, where necessary, to protect train drivers and
others from drains or embankments, etc as defined within this Standard.
16.6 Walkways
a) Walkways (including handrails) from the rail track to signal post telephones shall be
provided where defined within this Standard.
16.7 Foundations Affecting Track Drainage
a) If a signal mast or signal gantry foundation is to be located such that it would

obstruct existing or proposed track drainage arrangements the Constructor shall
provide alternative drainage arrangements and these be acceptable to the
b) These could include drainage ducts through the foundations or ducts or channels
around the foundations.
16.8 Access to Signals and Gantries from Public Roads
a) Where railway lines run alongside public roads; access to signals and signal
gantries shall be provided.
b) This shall include the provision of walkways / steps / handrails as necessary for safe
and convenient access in addition to the provision of a lockable single width gate in
the boundary fence in accordance with this Standard.
SECTION 17.0 CONCRETE AND STABILISED SAND

17.1 General
This section of the Standard Specification details the requirements for the supply of:
a) Concrete for the construction of foundations, footpaths, cable pits and other
concrete structures of a minor nature as described within this Standard.
b) Stabilised sand.
Except when otherwise approved by the Infrastructure Manager, ready mixed concrete
shall be used in the construction of all concrete structures (i.e. no use of dry premix
concrete).
17.2 Ready Mixed Concrete and Stabilised Sand
a) Ready mixed concrete and stabilised sand shall be produced in accordance with the
requirements of AS 3600, AS1379.
b) The Constructor shall be responsible for ensuring that concrete and stabilised sand
is ordered with the correct properties for its intended application.
c) Concrete strength at 28 days shall be not less than 25 MPa.
17.3 Site Mixed Concrete and Stabilised Sand

a) The materials for site mixed concrete and stabilised sand shall be kept free of
foreign matter at all times.
b) Concrete mix portions by volume shall be as necessary to obtain the necessary

strength for the particular application with a minimum strength of 25 MPa for any
application.
c) Portland cement type A to AS3972 shall be used unless otherwise specified and
aggregate shall comply with AS2758.1.
d) Mixing water shall be clean and free from substances deleterious to concrete or
steel.
e) Chemical admixtures or fly ash shall not be used in the concrete mix.
f) Dry premix early strength concrete is not to be used in the rail environment.
17.4 Concreting Reinforcing

a) All concrete structures and pathways shall be appropriately reinforced with welded
steel mesh to AS 3600 and AS 1304 and/or steel bar to AS 1302 of sufficient cross-
sectional area for the calculated loadings.
b) Reinforcement shall be placed and tied (and/or welded) in accordance with the
design drawings.
17.5 Concreting Finishing

a) Internal concrete surfaces such as floors or similar shall be free of voids and steel
trowelled to a smooth finish.
b) External concrete surfaces shall be finished to a non-slip wood trowelled finish.
c) Concrete edges and corners shall be chamfered to minimise chipping and breaking.
d) Concrete surfaces shall be level except where a slope is required to form a ramp or
to disperse water away from a building or other structure.
SECTION 18.0 EQUIPMENT HOUSING CIVIL WORKS

18.1 General
a) Signalling equipment housings are categorised into three main types:
i. Equipment boxes
ii. Equipment huts
iii. Equipment rooms
b) The area around equipment housings shall be cleared and levelled with the use of
compacted 10mm “A” grade crushed rock for a distance of at least 2 metres around
the perimeter of the combined area of all equipment housings, and to a depth of
150mm.
c) Equipment housings shall not be located in flood prone areas, or where inadequate
drainage could lead to flooding. In low lying areas, the local flood history shall be
determined and the top of the equipment box base shall be at a height not lower
than the recorded or projected 100 year flood level.
d) Separation of all types of cables entering equipment housings shall comply to

Standards as identified within this document, and for all cables;
i. Within the equipment box, housing or relay room
ii. Entering the equipment box, housing or relay room
iii. Within the equipment box, housing or relay room foundation
iv. In pits associated with the equipment box, housing or relay room installation
18.2 Equipment Boxes

a) Equipment boxes shall be installed on foundations of the polyethylene constructed
type foundation, commonly referred to as “bathtub foundation” type, or of a type as
approved by the Infrastructure Manager. Refer to plans single width foundation STD
G0083 and double width foundation STD G0084. (Foundations for Single Width and
Double Width boxes shall be type approved by the Infrastructure Manager).
b) The foundations shall be installed on a level and compacted 100mm thick bedding
of 20 mm “A” grade crushed rock; that encompasses the foundation “footprint area”
plus 500mm in all directions past the perimeter of the foundation. Bathtub
foundation’s inspection cover plates shall be positioned at the rear of the relay box.
c) Additional provisions may be necessary at difficult sites such as on high banks or in

swampy areas.
d) All equipment boxes shall have secure foundations and safe and convenient access
provided to the equipment box for maintenance and construction staff.
e) Concrete or brick retaining walls shall be provided where necessary to form a
secure level area for equipment box foundations.
f) For sloping or unstable sites the specific proposals shall be prepared for approval,
but the layout and method of cable entry shall, as far as possible, be similar to those
indicated on the drawings referred to above. In areas of sloping or unstable sites,
retaining walls forming part of the equipment box foundations shall be provided as
necessary.
g) Care shall be taken to ensure that equipment box foundations and equipment box
platform foundations do not impede drainage and do not lead to scouring or erosion.
18.3 Equipment Boxes on Raised Metal Platforms
a) Where it is not practical to install concrete foundations for Equipment Boxes such as
on steeply sloping sites and over culverts, etc. approved raised metal platforms shall
be provided.
b) The platforms shall comply with the relevant parts of AS1657. In addition each
platform shall be capable of carrying a minimum of six (6) persons in addition to the
equipment box(s) and shall not bend, distort or sway or vibrate under this load and
any combination of this load and wind loading (from passing trains).
c) Metal supporting posts shall be securely anchored in concrete foundations and

where the ground is sandy or uncompacted; foundations shall be strip footings
rather than individual footings under each post.
d) The area under and extended up to 1 metre beyond the extremities of the raised
platforms shall be covered with 50mm of concrete. The area under the raised
platform shall be enclosed to prevent the build-up of rubbish and the growth of grass
or scrub underneath that could put equipment box contents and associated cables
at risk in the event of fires, etc.
18.4 Access to Equipment Boxes
a) Access shall be available to all Equipment Boxes from the track in the immediate
vicinity of the equipment box.
b) Where a public road runs alongside the railway line and Equipment Boxes are
positioned inside the boundary fences, personnel access shall be provided from the
public road for maintenance and fault finding purposes.
c) A personnel access gate in the boundary fence shall be provided in accordance with
this Standard.
d) Paths and safety handrails shall be provided between the access gates and
Equipment Boxes.
e) Where pre-existing gates are to be used for access to the Equipment Boxes, the
paths, steps and handrails shall be upgraded to comply with this Standard and / or
the relevant Australian Standards.
18.5 Equipment Huts

a) The equipment hut shall be installed to the construction plan as agreed upon by the
Infrastructure Manager, and taking into account any possible sighting obstruction to
nearby signals.
18.6 Equipment Rooms

a) The equipment room shall be installed to the construction plan as agreed upon by
the Infrastructure Manager, and taking into account any possible sighting obstruction
to nearby signals.
SECTION 19.0 COMMUNICATIONS CABLE CABINETS, ROOMS

AND HUTS
19.1 General
a) Access shall be provided to all communications equipment and cable areas; similar
to that as provided for Equipment Boxes as set out within this Standard.
SECTION 20.0 FOOTPATHS AND WALKWAYS

The Constructor shall supply and install;
a) Footpath for a distance of twelve (12) metres or as determined by a site inspection

by the Infrastructure Manager or Representative, where required for the train driver
to access;
i. Signal Post Telephone/s (SPT)

ii. point mechanism/s to either operate or inspect the lay of the points
mechanism
b) Walkway for a distance of twelve (12) metres or as determined by a site inspection

by the Infrastructure Manager or Representative, where required for the train driver
to access;
i. Signal Post Telephone/s (SPT)

ii. point mechanism/s to either operate or inspect the lay of the points
mechanism
c) The above shall equally relate to areas where access is required and the rail line is
located at a lower level, and access is required from the higher level to that of the
lower level.
d) All installations are to be in accordance with VRIOGS Standards and Specifications,

Infrastructure Manager’s Standards and Specifications, Australian Standard 1657
Fixed Platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders-Design, and the Construction and
Installation Australian Building Code.
SECTION 21.0 PLATFORMS, STEPS, FENCING, GATES,

LADDERS AND RETAINING WALLS
21.1 General
The Constructor shall supply and install;
a) Platforms, steps, ladders and handrails to access all equipment housings, relay
boxes, signal masts and gantries, trackside signalling and track related equipment,
track connections, and signalling trackside equipment which are located on
embankments or similar such inaccessible areas must be supplied and installed by
the Constructor, in accordance with Australian Standard 1657 Fixed Platforms,
walkways, stairways and ladders-Design, Construction and Installation and the
Australian Building Code. The above shall equally relate to areas where access is
required and the rail line is located at a lower level, and access is required from the
higher level to that of the lower level.
b) Where equipment boxes, huts and rooms are located within 3 metres from the
nearest rail and have doors opening towards the rail, or within 2 metres to fall areas
such as the top of embankments or cuttings, drains or culverts and that there is a
danger to persons falling greater than 1 metre from the working area, or where
slopes of greater than 1 in 1.15 (approximately 41 degrees) are encountered, then
the Constructor shall supply and install safety handrails in accordance with
Australian Standard 1657 Fixed Platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders-Design,
Construction and Installation.
21.2 Gates
a) Gates shall be supplied and installed by the Constructor in accordance with
VRIOGS Standards and Specifications.
21.3 Fencing
a) Fencing shall be supplied and installed by the Constructor in accordance with
VRIOG Standards and Specifications.
21.4 Steps, Ladders and Handrails

Steps, Ladders and Handrails shall be supplied and installed by the Constructor as below
and in accordance with the Infrastructure Manager’s Requirements.
a) Where Equipment Boxes are installed above ground level fixed steps or ladders
shall be provided where necessary to provide easy and safe access for
maintenance and construction staff.
b) Handrails to AS1657 shall be provided on all steps and around the foundations of all
Equipment Boxes that are located on embankments, etc or where the safety of
maintenance or construction staff could be at risk from accidentally stepping off an
above ground structure.
c) Handrails shall also be required at ground level Equipment Boxes where staff could
step back into a track drain, culverts, etc and on the track side of the equipment box
where the equipment box is within 3600 mm of the nearest rail of any track.
d) Stairs and Ladders to Equipment Boxes shall comply with the requirements of
AS1657 in respect to selection of step type ladders or rung type ladders, stile, tread
and rung sizes and the provision of safety cages and intermediate platforms.
e) Steps shall be not less than 600 mm wide and ladders shall be 450 mm wide.
21.5 Modifications to Existing Fencing

Modifications to fencing shall be supplied and installed by the Constructor as below and in
accordance with the Infrastructure Manager’s Requirements.
a) Where necessary to provide access ways, existing fences shall be cut and modified
in accordance to this Standard. The modification shall match the construction and
colour of the existing fence.
b) Access gates shall be provided in the modified fences in accordance with the
provisions of this specification.
21.6 Temporary Fences

Temporary fences shall be supplied and installed by the Constructor as below and in
accordance with the VRIOG Standards and Specifications.
In General;
a) Where an existing fence is being replaced or modified the Constructor shall provide
a temporary fence to prevent unauthorised access to the Infrastructure Manager’s
property.
b) The temporary fence(s) shall be reinstated prior to completion of each days work.
21.7 Retaining walls

a) The Constructor shall design and install retaining walls to support any embankment
which would be adversely affected by excavation for the Works. For example, signal
mast foundations or where necessary for the installation of trackside signalling
equipment or equipment housings.
b) Retaining walls shall be the concrete rail slab and steel rail post method in
accordance with PTC plan 2491/87 and also 3/81, or of a type approved by the
Infrastructure Manager. The minimum height above ground or ballast level
(whichever is the highest) shall be 300 mm. Retaining walls shall comply with
AS1302, AS3600 and AS4678.
c) All retaining walls shall be certified by a structural engineer.
d) Retaining walls shall not be constructed of timber.
e) The structural elements of all retaining walls and platforms shall be checked and
certified by an independent structural engineer.
f) Where the Constructor installs retaining walls; drainage must be considered and
adequate drainage installed.
g) As an alternative to retaining walls and earth fill, the Constructor may offer other
suitable alternatives for approval by the Infrastructure Manager or steel mesh
platforms. Steel mesh platforms shall comply with AS1657. The steel column for
support of the mesh platforms shall comply with AS4100 and the concrete footings
for the steel support column shall comply with AS3600.
h) Retaining walls shall be provided where:
i. The top of the equipment box concrete slab foundation is below the adjacent
ground level.
ii. The top of the signal post foundation is below the adjacent ground level.
i) The retaining wall shall be built to a height of 300 mm above the ground level on the
fill side of the wall. The fill material shall be compacted and levelled to allow water
run off to flow behind the wall.
j) Where the retaining wall will be 1 metre more in height at any point, free draining
backfill shall be placed adjacent to the wall and shall be drained into an agricultural
conduit of diameter not less than 100 mm located at the base of the wall.
k) Retaining walls shall be provided with weep holes at 600 mm centres maximum.
l) A dish drain with minimum gradient of 1:100 shall be provided between the retaining
wall and the pathway surrounding the equipment box or at the signal ladder base.
SECTION 22.0 TABLE OF FIGURES USED WITHIN THIS

STANDARD
Figure Number Drawing Number Drawing Title

Figure 1 112000 / 5 / 4 Buried Cable Route Types 1, 2 & 3
Figure 2 112000 / 5 / 5 Buried Cable Route Type 4
Figure 3 112000 / 5 / 6 Buried Cable Route in Rock
Figure 6 112000 / 5 / 10 Typical Pipe Configuration at Pit
Figure 7 112000 / 5 / 11 Typical Trench Plan Configuration One
Figure 8 112000 / 5 / 12 Typical Trench Plan Configuration Two
Figure 9 112000 / 5 / 13 Typical Trench Plan Configuration Four
Figure 10 112000 / 8 / 1 GST / GLT Interface
Figure 11 112000 / 8 / 2 GST / Buried Route Interface
Figure 12 112000 / 8 / 3 GST to Pit Interface
Figure 13 112000 / 14 / 1 Buried Route to Equipment box
Figure 14 112000 / 14 / 2 GLT to Equipment box Typical Arrangement
Figure 15 112000 / 14 / 3 GST to Equipment box Typical Arrangement
Figure 16 112000 / 5 / 14 Preferred cable pits and covers for local signalling
conduit type works
Figure 17 112000 / 5 / 15 Preferred cable pits and covers for ULX, URX and
Main signalling conduit type works
Figure 18 112000 / 5 / 16 Preferred cable pits and covers for fibre optic
cable and communications conduit type works
Figure 19 112000 / 5 / 17 Preferred cable pits and covers for
communications cabling conduit works
Figure 20 112000 / 5 / 18 Signalling equipment rail protection post, cable
route marker post and cable joint marker post
Figure 21 112000 / 5 / 19 Preferred Type 5 Ground Level Troughing (GLT)
Table 2 – Figures used
BURIED CABLE ROUTE TYPES 1, 2 AND 3
300
Marker Tape
800 minimum
650
White pipe for communications cable
(if required)
50
Separation as required by
ACMA and Victrack
Clean fill
Cover strip or
other suitable
separator
Cover strip
HV power Cable(s) Signalling Cables
TYPE 1 CABLE ROUTE
300
Marker Tape
650
White pipe/s for communications cable
(if required)
800 minimum
Separation as required by ACMA 50
and VicTrack
Spare Pipe(s)
Clean fill
Cover strip or
other suitable
separator
Cover strip
HV power Cable(s) Signalling Cables
TYPE 2 CABLE ROUTE --- WITH OUT PITS

TYPE 3 CABLE ROUTE --- WITH PITS AT 300m INTERVALS
BURIED CABLE ROUTE TYPES 1, 2 AND 3

Date
Drg No 112000 / 5 / 4
Jan 2010
Figure 1 Buried Cable Route Types 1, 2 & 3
BURIED CABLE ROUTE TYPE 4
Marker Tape
White pipe(s) for

communications cable
300mm separation from HV

as required by ACMA and
Victrack.
Clean fill
Orange pipes for signalling, cables LV and HV cables power cables and air lines.
HV power to be in a separate conduit to signalling cables
Air line to be in a separate conduit
NOTE: Where Services are required to be installed

horizontally in a wide excavation rather than
vertically as depicted, all separations shall be
maintained

Date
Drg No 112000 / 5 / 5 Jan 2010
Figure 2 Buried Cable Route Type 4
300
650 minimum
50
100 min
300 minimum
50
Figure 3 Buried Cable in Rock
UNDERLINE CROSSING and equally applies to Under road

crossing
NOTE; For Under Line crossing (ULX) installation works this shall be top of the head of the rail level
and for Under Road crossings (URX) installation works this shall be top of the road way level
Marker Tape- (where possible

under track if open excavation)
Clean fill-if open excavation
HV power Cable(s) within

conduits
Crushed rock-for open excavated
type
White conduits/s for communications cable

Signalling Cables (if required)
within conduits
Separation as required by ACMA
and VicTrack
NOTE: Spare Conduits/s -as required per standard

UNDERLINE OR ROAD CROSSING
Date
Drg No 112000 / 5 / 7
Jan 2010
Figure 6 Typical Pipe Configuration at Pit
Figure 7 Typical Trench Plan Configuration One
TYPICAL TRENCH PLAN CONFIGURATION TW0
Jan 2010
Date
112000 / 5 / 12
Drg No
Figure 8 Typical Trench Plan Configuration Two
Figure 9 Typical Trench Plan Configuration Four
Concrete
Steel trough tar epoxy coated
Troughing lid cut and bent parallel

to 150mm above ground
GST / GLT INTERFACE
to GLT lid
Metal end cover secured
to GLT lid
Figure 10 GST / GLT Interface
ax
22.5 m
GST / BURIED ROUTE INTERFACE

Date
Drg No 112000 / 8 / 2 Jan 2010
Figure 11 GST / Buried Route Interface
Figure 12
VRIOGS 012.2.1 REVISION A

GST TO PIT INTERFACE
Pit protected by 800 high rail protection posts

approx 500mm either side of pit

GST / Pit Interface
wherever vehicular traffic is possible

Steel trough tar epoxy coated
x a
(Except where GST continues on the to 150mm above ground
22.5 m
opposite side of the pit)
Metal end cover secured
to GLT lid
Concrete
Drg No
Troughing lid cut and bent parallel

to GLT lid
GST TO PIT INTERFACE
PIT
112000 / 8 / 3
Jan 2010
Date
67
Figure 13 Buried Route to Equipment box
Figure 14 GLT to Equipment box
Height not to exceed

location case base
|
GST
22.5 max
Crushed Rock or Concrete pad 1000 wide
800 High rail protection posts where

GST TO LOCATION CASE
TYPICAL ARRANGEMENT
around location case

Location Case
x 100 thick
required
600 x
PIT
min
600
GST
GST TO LOCATION CASE

TYPICAL ARRANGEMENT
Date
Drg No 112000 / 14 / 3 Jan 2010
Figure 15 GST to Equipment box
Figure 16 Preferred cable pits and covers for local signalling conduit type
works
Figure 17 Preferred cable pits and covers for ULX, URX and Main Signalling
Conduit type works
Preferred Pit for Fibre Optic Cable being type P6 & P8
NOTE: REFER TO INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGERS TYPE

APPROVAL LIST FOR CURRENT AND FURTHER
INFORMATION
PREFERRED CABLE PITS AND COVERS FOR FIBRE OPTIC

AND COMMUNICATIONS CABLING FOR CONDUIT WORKS
Date
Drg No 112000/5/16
Jan 2010
Figure 18 Preferred cable pits and covers for fibre optic and communications
cabling for conduit works
Figure 19 Preferred cable pits and covers for communications cabling

conduit works
Figure 20 Signalling Equipment Rail Protection Post, Cable Route Marker

Post and Cable Joint Marker Post
Figure 21 Preferred Type 5 Ground Level Troughing (GLT)
SECTION 23.0 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS

The following documents have been used as references in the preparation and usage of
this Standard:
a) VRIOGS 0001 Structural Gauge Envelopes-Minimum clearances for Infrastructure

adjacent to the Railway
b) VRIOGS 007 Infrastructure Drawing Standards
c) Code of Practice for the Defined Interstate Rail Network
d) AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules
e) Australian Standard 1657 Fixed Platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders-Design,
Construction and Installation
f) Australian Standard AS/NZS 2053.1 Conduits and fittings for electrical installations
g) Australian Standard AS/NZS 3008.1.1 Electrical installations- Selection of cables
h) Australian Standard AS 4799 Installation of underground utility services and pipe
lines within railway boundaries
i) Australian Standards AS4058 Precast concrete conduits (pressure and non –
pressure)
j) Australian Standards AS/NZS 4130 Polyethylene (PE) conduits for pressure
applications
k) Australian Standard AS/ACIF S009 Installation requirements for customer cabling
(Wiring Rules)
l) Occupational Health and Safety Act
m) AS 4687 Temporary Fencing and Hoardings
n) VicTrack Communications Cable Installation Specification TS-SP-013
o) AS 2758 Aggregates and rock for engineering purposes
p) AS4678 Earth Retaining Walls
q) AS3996 Access Covers and Grates
r) VicRoads Standard Specification for Road works and Bridge Works
It is entirely the Constructor’s responsibility to ensure that the documents as specified

above; refer to the latest version of the documents listed, or to any documents replacing
these for use.

L1-CHE-STD-043 v1 - Construction of Cable Routes

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Engineering Standard – Signalling

STANDARD FOR CONSTRUCTION OF CABLE

Name Position Signature

Approval Date Version Description

Referencing this document

THIS PAGE IS INTENDED TO BE BLANK

Standard for Construction of Cable Route

Issue Date 07/09/2010

APPROVER STATUS DATE QUALIFICATIONS

VRIOG Steering Approved 07/09/2010

Accredited Rail Operator

For any queries please contact vriogs@transport.vic.gov.au.

PURPOSE OF THE STANDARD

© Director of Public Transport 2005.

SECTION 1.0 CONVENTIONS

2. The word “Shall” is to be understood as mandatory.

3. The word “Should” is to be understood as non-mandatory, i.e. advisory or

4. The word “May” is to be understood as non-mandatory, i.e. advisory or

5. The Infrastructure Manager is the person responsible for Signalling works

6. Uncontrolled Standards may not be referenced within the VRIOG Standards.

7. Controlled Standards, including Australian Standards and other VRIOG Standards,

a) The referenced item cannot be adequately explained with an amount of text

c) The referenced document is a Figure or table and could not reasonably be

8. The format employed in the VRIOG Standards is compatible with Australian

10. The VRIOG Standards contain engineering information necessary to operate a

SECTION 2.0 DEFINITIONS

ULX Under Line Crossing

SECTION 3.0 SCOPE AND GENERAL

a) VRIOGS 012.2 Specification for Signalling Supply, Construction and Installation,

SECTION 4.0 CABLE ROUTE REQUIREMENTS

4.2 Underground Services of Other Authorities

4.4 Cable Route Survey

4.5 Location of Cable Route

4.6 Cable Route Intersection with Access Roads

4.7 Types of Cable Route

4.8 Radius of Bends

4.9 Stability of Excavations

4.10 Programming of Works

4.11 Public Safety

4.12 Placement of Spoil

SECTION 5.0 CABLE ROUTE MARKER POSTS, CABLE JOINT

iii. At locations where signalling and associated infrastructure is in danger of

5.2 Cable Route Markers and Cable Joint Markers

i. At points of entering and leaving the VicTrack property line or where

ii. At angles or spurs from the straight route.

iii. At all drains or other points of hazard.

SECTION 6.0 BURIED CABLE ROUTE (CABLE ROUTE TYPES 1,

6.2 Depth of Cable Route

6.3 Protective Cover over Signalling and Communications Cables

a) To provide mechanical protection to signalling, communications and power cables

6.4 PVC Cable Marker Tape in Trenches

6.5 Rock Areas

6.7 Buried Conduits

a) Conduits shall be rigid UPVC or other Infrastructure Manager approved product

r) All existing pathways should be reinstated to original conditions and be compliant to

i. Major under track 4 orange and 2 white.

ii. Minor under track 3 orange and 1 white.

v. Main Trenches 4 orange and 2 white.

i. Major under track 4 orange and 2 white.

ii. Minor under track 2 orange and 1 white

v. Main Trenches 4 orange and 2 white

i. Major under track 3 orange and 1 white.

ii. Minor under track 2 orange and 1 white

v. Main Trenches 3 orange and 1 white