Trackwalker Onboarding Checklist

Trackwalker Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Trackwalker starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Maintenance onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Trackwalker, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Trackwalker onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Trackwalker Onboarding Checklist

1. Safety Training: The trackwalker’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safety and maintenance of railway tracks. Therefore, one of the crucial onboarding tasks is safety training. This task involves educating the trackwalker about the safety protocols, procedures, and equipment necessary to perform their job safely. The company’s safety officer or a designated trainer typically conducts this training, covering topics such as personal protective equipment, emergency response, and hazard identification.

2. Familiarization with Track Layout: To effectively perform their duties, a trackwalker must have a thorough understanding of the railway track layout. This task involves providing the trackwalker with detailed information about the track network, including the location of switches, crossings, sidings, and any other relevant features. Typically, a senior trackwalker or a supervisor familiarizes the new trackwalker with the track layout, ensuring they can navigate the network confidently.

3. Equipment Training: Trackwalkers utilize various tools and equipment to inspect and maintain railway tracks. This task involves providing comprehensive training on the proper usage, maintenance, and safety precautions associated with these tools. The company’s maintenance department or experienced trackwalkers often conduct this training, covering equipment such as rail tongs, spike mauls, wrenches, and measuring devices.

4. Track Inspection Procedures: A critical aspect of a trackwalker’s role is conducting regular inspections to identify any defects or potential hazards on the tracks. This task involves training the trackwalker on the specific inspection procedures, including the frequency, techniques, and documentation requirements. Typically, a senior trackwalker or a supervisor guides the new trackwalker through the inspection process, demonstrating how to identify and report track abnormalities accurately.

5. Communication Protocols: Effective communication is essential for trackwalkers to coordinate with other team members, train operators, and supervisors. This task involves familiarizing the trackwalker with the company’s communication protocols, including the use of radios, phone systems, and any specific reporting procedures. The trackwalker’s supervisor or a designated communication officer typically provides this training, ensuring the trackwalker understands how to communicate efficiently and effectively.

6. Emergency Response Training: In the event of an emergency, trackwalkers must be prepared to respond promptly and appropriately. This task involves providing comprehensive training on emergency response procedures, including evacuation protocols, first aid, and incident reporting. The company’s safety officer or a designated trainer typically conducts this training, ensuring the trackwalker is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle emergencies.

7. Understanding Maintenance Schedules: Trackwalkers need to be aware of the maintenance schedules and routines to ensure timely inspections and repairs. This task involves educating the trackwalker about the company’s maintenance schedules, including the frequency of inspections, track maintenance plans, and any specific procedures for addressing identified issues. The trackwalker’s supervisor or the maintenance department typically provides this information, ensuring the trackwalker can effectively plan and prioritize their tasks.

8. Documentation and Reporting: Accurate documentation and reporting are crucial for trackwalkers to maintain track records and communicate any issues to the relevant stakeholders. This task involves training the trackwalker on the company’s documentation and reporting procedures, including the use of digital or paper-based systems, report templates, and any specific information required. The trackwalker’s supervisor or a designated reporting officer typically provides this training, ensuring the trackwalker understands how to document and report their findings accurately.

9. Team Collaboration and Coordination: Trackwalkers often work as part of a team, collaborating with other maintenance personnel, supervisors, and train operators. This task involves fostering a sense of teamwork and providing guidance on effective collaboration and coordination. The trackwalker’s supervisor or a designated team leader typically facilitates this task, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, sharing information, and supporting one another to achieve common goals.

10. Ongoing Professional Development: To excel in their role, trackwalkers should continuously enhance their knowledge and skills. This task involves encouraging and facilitating ongoing professional development opportunities for the trackwalker, such as attending relevant training programs, workshops, or industry conferences. The company’s human resources department or the trackwalker’s supervisor typically supports and guides the trackwalker in identifying suitable professional development opportunities

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Trackwalker checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Trackwalker up to speed and working well in your Maintenance team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.