Track Warning Systems

Track Warning Systems

RSP designs, manufactures, integrates, and supports a comprehensive range of Track Warning Systems to protect track workers and improve safety across the rail network. These systems include;

• Semi-Automatic Track Warning System (SATWS)
• Automatic Track Warning System (ATWS)
• Train Approaching Warning System (TAWS)
• Signal Controlled Warning System (SCWS)
• Look Out Operated Warning System (LOOWS)

Our solutions are trusted across the UK rail industry and are engineered to meet the highest standards for reliability, compliance, and operational performance.

Whether you require a fully automatic system, a signal-controlled solution, or a lookout-operated warning system, RSP provides end-to-end capability, from initial design, build through to factory testing and delivery.

Our Range of Track Warning System Solutions

RSP supports all major types of trackside and train-activated warning systems, including control system housings, cubicles, disconnection boxes, mounting posts, and trackside warning infrastructure (sires / yodalarms) for  Semi-Automatic Track Warning System (SATWS), Automatic Track Warning System (ATWS), Train Approaching Warning System (TAWS), Signal Controlled Warning System (SCWS), and Look Out Operated Warning System (LOOWS)

Design, Manufacture and Factory Testing

RSP offers a fully integrated service covering the complete lifecycle of your Warning System. Our in-house expertise allows us to support projects of any size or complexity.

We can assist with:

• System design and configuration
• Build and factory acceptance testing (FAT)
• Control system housings and equipment cubicles
• Disconnection boxes and mounting posts
• Trackside warning infrastructure, including sirens and yodalarms
• Supply of all required materials for system implementation

By manufacturing and integrating systems in-house, we ensure quality control, consistency, and compliance with relevant rail standards.

Automated Track Warning System (ATWS)

When using the Axle Counting ATWS solution, it removes the human interaction of cancelling warnings. ATWS adds an additional layer of protection by automating detection and warning, while still allowing flexibility for dynamic, open-line working. The solution counts axles into the worksite and does not cancel any worksite warning until all axles are counted out of the system, in a multitude of directional routes.

This combination of automation and axle counting makes ATWS particularly suitable for permanent worksites.

How does an Automatic Track Warning System Work?

• Train detection via axle counter – A Frauscher FADC unit is retrofitted and used for reliable train detection, powered by a mains supply.
• Detectors positioned for real-world warning time – Axle counter train detectors are installed at calculated distances to ensure sufficient warning time for workers on site.
• Centralised control – The detectors are hardwired back to a central cabinet, which houses the electronic control unit, radio transmitters, and power supply, keeping everything robust, monitored, and site-ready.
• Instant warnings where they matter – Once a train is detected, radio signals trigger audio and visual alerts on personal or site-wide devices.
• Designed for transient worksites – Once installed, quick to deploy, adaptable in range, and approved for dynamic open-line working, improving both safety and productivity.

Key Benefits of an RSP Automatic Track Warning System 

• Improved Safety for Track Workers – ATWS provides reliable, automated warnings, reducing the risk of human error and improving overall site safety.
• Consistent and Predictable Performance – Automated detection ensures that warnings are delivered in the same way, every time, regardless of environmental conditions or workload.
• Reduced Reliance on Lookouts – By minimising dependence on manual lookout arrangements, ATWS supports safer and more efficient working practices.
• Flexible Deployment -ATWS can be installed as a temporary or semi-permanent solution, making it suitable for a wide range of projects.
• Compliance with Rail Safety Standards – Systems can be designed to align with relevant railway standards and client specifications.

Semi-Automatic Track Warning System (SATWS)

 A SATWS is a proven rail safety solution designed to provide early and dependable warnings of approaching trains to personnel working on or near the track. By combining automated train detection (treadles) with controlled manual release of warning, SATWS delivers a balanced approach to safety, enhancing protection while allowing site teams to maintain operational control.

 The SATWS detects approaching trains and activates audible and visual warnings using treadles, once the worksite is clear, authorised personnel release the warning. They are widely used in the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, France, Belgium, Poland and New Zealand, for track worksite safety.

How an Axle Counter-Based Semi-Automatic Track Warning System Works

•  Train detection via axle counter – A Frauscher FADC unit is being retrofitted and used for reliable train detection, powered by a mains supply.
• Detectors positioned for real-world warning time – Axle counter train detectors are installed at calculated distances to ensure sufficient warning time for workers on site.
• Centralised control – The detectors are hardwired back to a central cabinet, which houses the electronic control unit, radio transmitters, and power supply — keeping everything robust, monitored, and site-ready.
• Instant warnings where they matter – Once a train is detected, radio signals trigger audio and visual alerts on personal or site-wide devices.
• Designed for transient worksites – Once installed – Quick to deploy, adaptable in range, and approved for dynamic open-line working — improving both safety and productivity.

Speak to our experienced team today

To discuss your warning system project requirements, from design, build and factory test, including control system housings, cubicles, disconnection boxes, mounting posts, and trackside warning infrastructure (sirens / yodalarms).