Journal Article

The "not for profit" Company, 3801 Limited, was established in 1985 to maintain and operate Australia's iconic heritage steam locomotive 3801 and associated rollingstock in a safe, efficient and economically sustainable manner for the ongoing benefit, cultural understanding and enjoyment of the general community and the volunteers and staff of the Company. The Duty of Care under Common Law and Statutes together with relevant legislation on corporate governance, rail safety, environment, heritage, occupational health and safety constitute the legal framework for heritage rail operations today. Legal agreements for accreditation to operate on the rail system and for access to the rail network set the safety culture for the Company and the consequent operational safety actions. The Risk and Safety Committee of the 3801 Limited Board reviews and assesses the risks and safety issues involved in the operations of the Company through wide consultation and feedback. Training of staff and volunteers and certification of competency are key safety requirements together with the development of management plans. OH&S, fatigue, drug and alcohol policies are central to safety operations. The maintenance and operation of heritage rollingstock that is outside current rail operating practice raise difficult safety issues requiring specialist skills and knowledge. Regular internal auditing by directors and senior management ensure that staff and volunteers understand and practice safety.