Railway Interoperability Regulations (RIR): Introductory course for Great Britain rail
Overview
The Railway Interoperability Regulations (RIR) form a critical part of the legal and technical framework governing infrastructure projects on the Great Britain railway network.
This one-day introductory course provides a clear, structured explanation of the purpose, scope and legal framework of RIR, with focused coverage of the Infrastructure (INF) and Accessibility (PRM/ACC) National Technical Specification Notices (NTSNs).
Designed for rail professionals involved in planning, design, delivery or authorisation of infrastructure projects, the course explains when RIR apply, what is required when they do, and how to successfully achieve ORR authorisation.
Through practical guidance and case studies, delegates will gain the confidence to assess applicability, demonstrate compliance and manage regulatory obligations effectively.
Who should attend
This course will be of interest to people working on station and track infrastructure projects, whether that be new builds, enhancements or renewals.
- Infrastructure engineers and designers
- Project managers and sponsors
- Asset managers and technical authorities
- Compliance, safety and assurance professionals
- Client representatives and consultants
- Professionals seeking a structured introduction to interoperability compliance in GB
Outcomes
By the end of the course, delegates will be able to:
- Explain the purpose, scope and legal framework of RIR on the GB railway and when they apply
- Understand how to apply RIR to infrastructure projects in GB and demonstrate compliance
- Understand how to manage derogations and exemptions appropriately
- Understand how to plan and deliver Infrastructure projects in line with the ORR’s authorisation requirements
- Identify key stakeholder roles and responsibilities
- Apply learning to case studies to assess RIR applicability and demonstrate compliance
Course content and format
This module establishes a strong regulatory foundation and clarifies key definitions and obligations.
- What are the Railway Interoperability Regulations for?
- When RIR apply — and when they do not
- What is required when RIR do apply
This section provides a practical roadmap for planning and delivering infrastructure projects aligned with ORR expectations.
- Key roles, responsibilities and regulatory definitions
- Overview of interoperability project lifecycle phases
- Planning and scoping / concept design phase
- Detailed design phase
- Construction
- Submission and APIS
Delegates will understand how regulatory requirements translate into project-level technical and assurance activities.
- Interoperable railway subsystems and applicable NTSNs
- The role of National Technical Rules (NTRs)
- Demonstrating Safe Integration
Duration: 1 day
Delivery: Classroom
Interactive case studies and practical examples
Opportunities for discussion and Q&A
Both public and private courses are offered. The public course is scheduled to suit demand, and individual places can be booked by delegates. The private course is offered for a specific client and is typically delivered at their premises.
Booking and general enquiries
To secure your place(s), use the open and complete the booking form.
For any questions or general enquiries, please contact Matt Howells, the Course Administrator at matthew.howells@ricardo.com or phone +44 1273 794366.
Book your place on the RIR course
Use the form to register your participation