Description

The Railways Act 2005 was enacted to ensure the safe operation of rail transport services across New Zealand.

The Act provides a comprehensive legal framework for regulating rail safety in New Zealand. It:

• Sets out general safety duties for rail participants and other persons involved in rail operations.
• Requires licensing for rail operators and access providers.
• Mandates the development and maintenance of safety cases and safety systems.
• Grants powers to the Director of Land Transport to enforce compliance, including suspending or revoking licences, imposing conditions, and prohibiting unsafe operations.

Scope

How the Act relates to the Building Code clause C - Protection from Fire.

Railways Act 2005 focuses on rail safety, including the safe operation of rail vehicles and infrastructure, and the management of risks such as fire hazards within the rail environment.

Building Code Clause C (C1–C6) aims to protect people and property from fire in buildings, ensuring safe evacuation, limiting fire spread, and supporting firefighting efforts.

Both frameworks aim to protect life and property, especially in public-use infrastructure like railway stations and depots.

Railway Stations and Buildings:

These must comply with Building Code Clause C for fire safety design, including:
Fire detection and suppression systems.
Safe means of escape.
Fire-resistant materials and compartmentalisation.

Rail Operations:

The Railways Act requires operators to manage fire risks as part of their safety cases and systems, especially in rolling stock and infrastructure.