Hardening of control centers-the case `for´ and issues to be considered

The availability of high-speed code systems and computer-aided systems equipped with appropriate indications and control interfaces with operating personnel has made it possible to concentrate large areas of railroad territory at single sites, thus gaining efficiencies in the movement of trains as well as utilization of the right of way. Being able to recognize the risks involved and provide for layout and design to mitigate against adverse impacts of possible disruptive influences and to provide and distribute plans and standing instructions that will define the mode of operation with arrangements to be implemented in a situation involving a major incident are two problems faced. Various factors to be considered are identified, especially as visits to various control centers indicated many layouts had failed to provide for various hazards involved, and there is a lack of formal, documented alternative scenarios for the continued operation of the enterprise in the event of major incidents of various types