This course is designed to train individuals who have been nominated by their line manager/sponsor to enable them to attain the Controller of Site Safety (COSS) competence.

The COSS competence will be held by anyone who is required to set up a safe system of work on or near the line for a group (two or more people). A COSS can also carry out the duties of an IWA, provided there are no medical restrictions that would prevent this.

The COSS course will take delegates through the procedures set out in the Rule Book; Handbook 6 (General Duties of an IWA), Handbook 7 (General duties of a controller of site safety (COSS), Handbook 8 (IWA, COSS or PC blocking a line), Handbook 9 (IWA or COSS setting up safe systems of work within possessions), Handbook 10 (Duties of the COSS and person in charge of a hand trolley) and Handbook 13 (Duties of the person in charge of the siding).

The course includes the importance of using the correct communication protocols and adopting the appropriate behaviours to be able to carry out this role safely and effectively.

How long does this competency last?

The COSS competency lasts for two years; though within 4 months of completing your course with us, you must complete a minimum of 4 shifts during the mentoring period. Provided your mentor has signed your work experience logbook, you're eligible for a post mentoring on-site COSS assessment. To maintain your COSS competency an additional interim assessment must be carried out between 9-15 months from the date of your course.You will need to attend the COSS Recertification course leading up to expiry.

• Minimum age of 18
• Meets the entry requirements of PTS competence.
• Good level of literacy required.
• Must hold a valid Sentinel Card and meet the requirements of NR/L2/CTM/021 -Competence and Training in Track Safety.
• Meet the medical requirements of Network Rail Standard NR/L2/OHS/00124 Competence Specific Fitness Medical Requirements to medical and Network Rail Standard NR/L2/OHS/00120 (Drugs & Alcohol).
• Must provide their PTS Work Experience Book (Logbook) with a minimum of 4 completed and endorsed entries showing the mandated minimum number of countersigned entries, 4 in the last 2 years (RTAS Rules V2.0.). 
• Must have a valid PTS, or a PTS which expired within 56 days of the course date.
• Must have a mandatory 12 twelve (12) hour rest period before the course as per the rules on Working Time Regulations (1998) and Network Rail Standards NR/L2/OHS/003.
• To ensure individuals recieve the CRP competence, they must also have a valid endorsed PTS DCCR. 

Results for the COSS Initial competencies will be uploaded onto your Sentinel card/profile within 24 hours on successful completion of the event. Should there be any complication in uploading the competencies, we will endeavour to resolve the matter within 5 working days.