ALO – When Is Any Line Open Required?
Summary
This article explains when Any Line Open (ALO) working is typically required in railway operations. It provides general guidance only and does not replace controlled railway documentation, standards, or operational procedures.
What Any Line Open Means
Any Line Open (ALO) refers to situations where work is carried out on or near the railway while one or more lines remain open to traffic. ALO arrangements are used to manage the additional operational considerations that arise when work activities interface with live railway movements.
When ALO Is Typically Required
ALO is typically required where planned works cannot be fully separated from live railway operations. Whether ALO applies is determined by the relevant railway standards, risk assessments, and planning processes.
Common Situations Where ALO Applies
While the specific triggers for ALO are defined in controlled documentation, ALO commonly applies in situations such as:
- Work carried out adjacent to open running lines
- Activities where plant or materials interface with live infrastructure
- Planned works that cannot be accommodated within full possessions oaicite:11
How DocuRail Supports ALO Documentation
DocuRail supports ALO workflows by providing a digital platform to:
- Record ALO-related planning information
- Submit and manage ALO documentation
- Retain an auditable record of submissions and approvals
- Support revisions where planning conditions change oaicite:12