8231 — Train and tram drivers

What this occupation covers

Train and tram drivers drive diesel, diesel-electric, electric and steam locomotives that transport passengers and goods on surface and underground railways, and transport passengers in trams.

Typical duties

checks controls, gauges, brakes and lights before start of journey and studies route, timetable and track information

checks safety equipment, regulates the heating of passenger compartments and records engine defects or unusual incidents on the journey

starts train or tram when directed and operates controls to regulate speed

watches for track hazards, observes signals and temperature, pressure and other gauges

stops as directed to allow passengers to embark/ disembark

makes scheduled stops for the loading and unloading of freight and coupling/uncoupling of carriages and tubs

maintains radio contact with control centre

may make passenger announcements and controls automatic doors

may check travel passes, collect fares and deal with passenger queries

Entry routes and qualifications

There are no formal academic requirements. Entrants must pass a series of tests and a medical examination. Age restrictions apply in some areas of work. Good hearing, good eyesight and normal colour vision are required. Off and on-the-job training is provided. NVQs/SVQs are available at level 2.

Sponsorship information

Ineligible. Actual duties, sponsor, applicant, salary and any transitional or shortage-list conditions must be checked.

DBS assessment

No code-wide DBS assessment is assigned. Check actual duties, activities, workplace, frequency and jurisdiction. This code does not determine the level of check.

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