What is a RIW card and how do I get one?
WHAT IS A RAIL INDUSTRY WORKER (RIW) CARD?
A RIW Card is an identification card which includes a link to an electronic record of a worker’s details as relevant to their work on a rail network. It includes personal identification, medical levels and the competencies and accreditations held by the rail worker. The RIW Card provides recognition that a person is qualified to work on and around a rail corridor.
The information on the card comes from the worker’s electronic record kept within the Australian Railway Association (ARA) database. Having a worker’s relevant information in an easily accessible system allows rail network operators, authorities and employers to quickly identify qualified individuals efficiently in the work environment.
This system also benefits workers who move between jobs, employers and projects. A RIW card isn’t a requirement for all rail networks, however if an employer or project includes any of the rail corridors within the participating rail networks, the RIW Card is mandatory.
HOW DO I OBTAIN A RIW CARD?
The RIW Program only issues cards to companies and contractors who hold an ABN. Your primary employer will have to order your RIW card on your behalf. Businesses can register their company with a RIW provider then set up profiles for individual employees.
WHAT CREDENTIALS ARE NECESSARY TO ACCESS THE RAIL CORRIDOR?
No matter someone’s credentials and certifications, before they can gain a RIW Card to access a rail corridor in a track maintenance or construction related role, they need to complete three basic steps:
- Obtain a White Card for Construction under the Unit of Competency CPCCWHS1001 – Prepare to work safely in the construction industry
- Pass a medical relevant to their job role – which can be completed at CERT training centres
- Complete the Unit of Competency TLIF2080 – Safety access the rail corridor
TLIF2080 is the basis of various Rail Network mandatory rail safety induction programs:
- SX52 (formerly RSW or RISI) in New South Wales, for Transport for New South Wales and Sydney Trains
- TTSA in Victoria, for Metro Trains Melbourne and V/Line
- QR3.2 in Queensland for Queensland Rail
- NTSA in South Australia for the ARTC network.
These courses prescribe the competency requirements relevant to the Network. Depending on your role, you may need additional competencies for specific rail networks and operators.
If you’re unsure about specific rail network requirements, you can contact your local CERT office or visit the Australian Rail Association website and view the National Matrices to figure out which roles require additional competencies.
To complete TLIF2080 – Safely access the rail corridor training with CERT, click on the link relevant to your state below to quickly and easily book online.
