On-train Data Recording Training

Designed to improve the use and understanding of On-Train Data Recorder

Course Overview

This training programme is designed to improve the use and understanding of On-Train Data Recorder (OTDR) systems used within a given company.

AssessTech will customise the training for the specific OTDR system in use and also to meet local company standards.

Booking Your Award
To book an On-Train Data Recording training course or to enquire for further information, please contact bookings@assesstech.com, where a member of the AssessTech team will be happy to assist.

The programme is suitable for competent Driver Managers, Instructors and Assessors that need to use OTDR systems as part of training and assessing Drivers or investigating incidents.

Each training course is directed at one specific OTDR system (e.g. Hassler, Arrowvale, etc.) and is comprised of the following:
  • A one-day trainer-led course covering all underpinning knowledge and practical application
  • An online course to be used as a refresher and containing an optional competence test
The programme will be customised for the specific OTDR system in use and also to meet local company standards. As such, AssessTech will need the following from the customer:
  • Example downloads from the OTDR system in use, in line with the elements and scenarios to be covered in training
  • Copies of Operational Standards relating to Assessment and Investigation, using OTDR systems

There is no formal qualification associated with this course, however, coursework will be marked and an AssessTech Certificate of Completion will be issued to those successfully completing all work.

Programme Delivery

The course is delivered as one day of classroom training as follows:
  • Located at a depot or station with trains that have suitable turnaround times, and the appropriate OTDR systems installed
  • Recommended limit of four candidates, with a hard maximum of six (because the course will be highly hands-on and require a lot of 1-1 attention from the trainer)
This day covers the following OTDR topics:
  • Introduction
  • Hardware and software overview, including how to install software (if required) and how to navigate around the system
  • Obtaining a download – classroom demonstration, followed by a practical session on the train
  • Uploading a download to the laptop
  • Interpreting and understanding the data
  • Elements to consider for an assessment, using real examples, and completing checklists during a practical session: o Train handling, speeds, braking, reactions to in cab indications, wheel slide, responding to others, degraded working o Creating an overview of the journey o Focusing on key events isolations o Opening and closing the cab o Use of the DRA
  • Elements to consider when conducting an investigation, using real examples, and completing checklists and timelines during a practical session o Detailed location of train, times, mileage, signal aspects, signal numbers o Creating your timeline. o Creating an overview of the journey
  • Storing of assessment and investigation evidence
The following will also be covered on the course:
  • How to find online learning resources, including how to use AssessBook
  • Completion of the online competence test (optional)
The Online Learning will look like this:
  • OTDR Overview Course o Slideshow covering the content from the trainer-led course o Competence tests (quizzes) so candidates can test their own knowledge
  • Specific content relating to the OTDR system relevant to the candidate
Candidates will be registered on to an AssessBook course in order to gain access to the above.

Why Train with AssessTech?

Industry expertise

Our trainers have real-world railway experience across multiple roles.

Data-driven approach

Using RBTNA to identify the right training for your teams.

Engaging, interactive methods

Making learning practical, immersive, and effective.