NSW Transport PDF

Technical Note - TN 059: 2015
For queries regarding this document

standards@transport.nsw.gov.au
www.asa.transport.nsw.gov.au

Issued date:
06 October 2015
Effective date:
06 October 2015
Subject:
Withdrawal of ESC 410 Earthworks and
Formation
This technical note is issued by the Asset Standards Authority as a notification to remove from
use the RailCorp standard ESC 410 Earthworks and Formation, Version 2.0.
ESC 410 is a legacy document and shall be used for reference purposes only. ASA standard
T HR CI 12110 ST Earthworks and Formation, Version 1.0 supersedes this document.
Authorisation:
Technical content
prepared by
Checked and
approved by
Interdisciplinary
coordination
checked by
Authorised for
release
Name
Sarath Fernando
Richard Hitch
John Paff
Graham Bradshaw
Position
Principal Engineer
Geotech
Lead Civil Engineer
A/Chief Engineer Rail
Director Network
Standards and
Services
Signature
Date
State of NSW through Transport for NSW
Page 1 of 1
Superseded by T HR CI 12110 ST
For queries regarding this document

standards@.transport.nsw.gov.au
www.asa.transport.nsw.gov.au

Issued date:
11 June 2015
Effective date:
11 June 2015
Subject:
Update to RailCorp engineering standards

ESC 410, ESC 540 and TMC 411
This technical note supersedes TN 009: 2013 and is issued by the Asset Standards Authority as
a temporary update to the standards listed in Table 1.
Table 1 RailCorp engineering standards
Reference No
Title
Version
Issue date
ESC 410
Earthworks and Formation
2.0
01/07/2010
ESC 540
Service Installations within the Rail Corridor
2.2
01/07/2010
TMC 411
Earthworks
2.0
01/07/2010
The SMS document reference on CTN 13/04 has changed to SMS-06-GD-3066 Guide to
managing construction hazards.
Documents listed in Table 1 are presented as legacy RailCorp documents and shall be read in
conjunction with this technical note and interpreted according to the interpretation guides listed in
Table 2.
Table 2 Interpretation guides
Reference no
Title
Version
Issue date
TS 10762
Legacy RailCorp Standards Interpretation - Management

Overview
1.0
28/06/2013
TS 10760
Guide to interpretation of organisational role and process

references in RailCorp standards
1.0
17/06/2013
TS 10760 - SMS
Interpretation guide RailCorp SMS References within

RailCorp engineering standards
1.0
17/06/2013
Page 1 of 4
1.
Embankment/cut slope instability due to toe

disturbances and trenching
This instruction includes mandatory requirements.
There have been several embankment destabilisations reported as a result of excavations into
the toe of embankments. As shown in the photographs (Figure 1 to Figure 5), it appears that the
toe was cut to create access at the expense of embankment stability.
Removing the toe restraint, which is an integral part of the earth structure, leads to slip failure
progressing towards the track. This is one of the worst forms of destabilisation for dynamic
loading. It was noted that vertical cuts were left unsupported until track patrol discovered the slip
failure.
Each incident led to emergency repairs being undertaken to reinstate the embankment with
temporary speed restrictions to manage the risk until repairs had been completed.
Embankment toes and slopes shall not be disturbed by any means including cuts, cable and pipe
trenches or otherwise as this directly affects the stability of the earth structure.
If excavation is unavoidable, advice shall be sought from the geotechnical engineer.
Any trenching at the toe of cuttings for cable routes, cess drainage and so on, shall not be carried
out without a stability assessment or advice from the geotechnical engineer. Trenches especially
at top of soil/soft rock cuttings and embankments shall not be left open overnight. Water ponding
in trenches can result in slope failures (see Figure 4 and Figure 5).
Excavation work shall not commence without a risk assessment and implementation of
appropriate controls.
Refer to TMC 411 Earthworks and SMS-06-GD-3066 Guide to managing construction hazards for
requirements for excavation work including planning of works, risk assessment, excavation work
plans and excavation procedures. Also, refer to ESC 540 Service Installations within the Rail
Corridor for detailed requirements for the location and installation of cables and pipes by
trenching.
Page 2 of 4
Figure 1 - Vertical toe cut leading to slip failure
Figure 2 - Vertical toe cut leading to slip failure
Figure 3 - Vertical toe cut with high risk for slip failure
Page 3 of 4
Figure 4 - Cable trench left open at top of soil/soft rock cutting allowed ponding water to enter slope
leading to failure (see Figure 5)
Figure 5 - Failure due to cable trench left open at top of soil/soft rock cutting
Authorisation:
Technical content
prepared by
Checked and
approved by
Interdisciplinary
coordination
checked by
Authorised for
release
Name
Sarath Fernando
Richard Hitch
John Paff
Graham Bradshaw
Position
Principal Engineer
Geotech
Lead Civil Engineer
A/Chief Engineer Rail
Principal Manager
Network Standards
and Services
Signature
Page 4 of 4
ESC 410
EARTHWORKS AND FORMATION
Version 2.0
Issued July 2010
Owner:
Principal Engineer Geotechnical
Approved by:
John Stapleton
A/Principal Engineer
Technology & Standards
Authorised by:
Jee Choudhury
Principal Engineer
Disclaimer
This document was prepared for use on the RailCorp Network only.
RailCorp makes no warranties, express or implied, that compliance with the contents of this document shall be
sufficient to ensure safe systems or work or operation. It is the document users sole responsibility to ensure that the
copy of the document it is viewing is the current version of the document as in use by RailCorp.
RailCorp accepts no liability whatsoever in relation to the use of this document by any party, and RailCorp excludes
any liability which arises in any manner by the use of this document.
Copyright
The information in this document is protected by Copyright and no part of this document may be reproduced, altered,
stored or transmitted by any person without the prior consent of RailCorp
UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED
Page 1 of 16
Engineering Standard
Engineering Standard
Geotechnical
RailCorp Engineering Standard Geotechnical

ESC 410
Document control
Revision
Date of Approval
2.0
July, 2010
1.2
December, 2009
1.1
October, 2007
1.0
September, 2006
Summary of change
Changes detailed in Summary table below
Change of format for front page, change history and table of
contents; Minor editing and formatting throughout
New section 11 on ground anchors to be consistent with ESC 350.
First issue as a RailCorp document. Replaces C 1100, TS 3421, TS
3422
Summary of changes from previous version

Section
Document
Control
Summary of change
Version control updated
Additional definitions included
Old section 4 Width of property deleted; new Section 4 with additional requirements for
design, assessment and documentation including design flood level and requirements for
multiple tracks
New Section on design flood level
Clarification of requirements for double vs multiple tracks
Minor changes to design requirements for cuttings
8
9
More detailed requirements for embankments including for sampling & testing; drainage
blanket; embankment profile and rock facing of embankments
Additional design requirements for earthworks near structures
10
New Section on tolerances for earthworks
11
Minor changes to design requirements for capping; update reference to TMC 304 to SPC 301
16
New Section on repair and overhaul of track formation
Appendix 1
Appendix 2
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
Title changed for clarity; note added re minimum dimension from edge of cutting face to top
drain
Title changed for clarity; note added re minimum dimension from edge of cutting face to top
drain
Page 2 of 16
Version 2.0

ESC 410
Contents
1
Purpose, Scope and Application ............................................................................................................ 4
References ................................................................................................................................................ 4
2.1
2.2
2.3
Australian and International Standards ......................................................................................... 4

RailCorp Documents ..................................................................................................................... 4
Other References .......................................................................................................................... 4
Definitions ................................................................................................................................................. 4
Design Requirements .............................................................................................................................. 6

4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
Cuttings ..................................................................................................................................................... 7
5.1
5.2
General .......................................................................................................................................... 6
Design investigation ...................................................................................................................... 6
Design flood level .......................................................................................................................... 6
Formation....................................................................................................................................... 7
Documentation .............................................................................................................................. 7
Excavation ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Batter Slopes ................................................................................................................................. 8
Embankments ........................................................................................................................................... 8
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
Embankment Material.................................................................................................................... 8
Compaction Standards .................................................................................................................. 9
Sampling and Testing.................................................................................................................... 9
Drainage Blanket ........................................................................................................................... 9
Embankment Profile ...................................................................................................................... 9
Rock Facing of Embankments....................................................................................................... 9
Capping Layer........................................................................................................................................... 9
Earthworks near Structures .................................................................................................................. 10

8.1
8.2
8.3
General ........................................................................................................................................ 10
Construction................................................................................................................................. 10
Excavation ................................................................................................................................... 11
Tolerances for Earthworks .................................................................................................................... 11

9.1
9.2
Vertical Tolerances...................................................................................................................... 11
Horizontal Tolerances.................................................................................................................. 12
10
Drainage .................................................................................................................................................. 12
11
Ground Anchors ..................................................................................................................................... 12
12
Train Examination Areas ....................................................................................................................... 12
13
Walkways ................................................................................................................................................ 13
14
Rehabilitation of Formation................................................................................................................... 13
Appendix 1 Single Track Cross Section ...................................................................................................... 14

Appendix 2 Double Track Cross Section..................................................................................................... 15
Appendix 3 Shoulder Distance ..................................................................................................................... 16
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
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ESC 410
Purpose, Scope and Application

This Standard establishes design requirements and acceptance standards for embankments,
cuttings and earthworks capping layer.
It is applicable to all RailCorp mainline and siding tracks.
References
2.1
Australian and International Standards
2.2
2.3
AS 1289
Methods of testing soils for engineering purposes
AS 4678
Earth retaining structures
RailCorp Documents
ESC 215
Transit Space
ESC 350
Retaining Walls and Platforms
ESC 420
Track Drainage
SPC 301
Structures Construction
SPC 411
Earthworks Materials
Other References
Nil
Definitions
Borrow Pit:
Excavation made for the procurement of material
Capping Layer:
Layer of compacted material that provides a sealing layer to the

earthworks.
CBR:
Soaked California Bearing Ratio, determined on a compacted sample.
Cohesionless Soil:
Material consisting mostly of sand and gravel mixture, generally with

less than 5% fines (i.e., particles finer than 75 m diameter).
Cohesive Soil:
Material consisting mostly of silt and clay and has a well-defined

moisture-density relationship when tested in accordance with AS
1289.5.1.1 or AS 1289.5.2.1.
Collapsible Soil:
Soil that may suffer a significant decrease in volume under load or

when it becomes nearly saturated, which may have existed in this
metastable state for a long time
Compaction:
The process whereby the density of soil is increased by mechanical

means. This typically involves, rolling, impact or vibration, or a
combination of these processes.
Contaminated Material:
Material that may contain toxic substances or soluble compounds

harmful to environment, water supply or agriculture.
Cutting:
An earth or rock excavation within the works site that is made below an
existing surface to create the railway formation.
Dispersive soil:
Soil that has the ability to pass rapidly into suspension in the presence
of water
Earthworks:
The activities covered by this specification
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
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ESC 410
Earthworks Level:
Level at the centre of the earthworks prior to placing of the capping

layer.
Embankment:
An earth or rock fill structure above an existing and/or excavated

surface to create the rail track formation.
Expansive Soil:
Soil that will suffer a high volume change when in contact with
water. Any increase or decrease in the moisture content of such soil,
would cause swelling or shrinkage, respectively. This type of soil is also
called Reactive Soil and Swelling Soil.
Formation:
The earthworks structure including all Foundation, Structural Treatment

and Capping Layer, on which ballast is laid
Formation Level:
Finished level at the centre of the formation preparatory to laying

ballast. It includes the required capping layer.
Formation Width:
Width at formation level
Foundation Treatment:
A special layer or treated zone at the base of a formation for the

purpose of reinforcing, strengthening or drainage.
General Fill:
The zone below the structural zone of the embankment.
Geosynthetics:
Prefabricated sheet made of polymeric materials which may be

permeable or non-permeable. This material may be used as filterdrainage (if permeable) or foundation reinforcement. It includes
geotextile, geonet, geogrid and geocell.
Geotechnical Engineer:
RailCorps Principal Geotechnical Engineer or a competent person with

delegated engineering authority for geotechnical design activities
relating to earthworks.
Rail Level:
Theoretical level of the running surface of the rails. In the case of

superelevated track, it is the low rail.
Relative Compaction:
For cohesive soils, the dry density ratio determined in accordance with
AS 1289.5.4.1, or the Hilf density ratio determined in accordance with
AS 1289.5.7.1.
For cohesionless soils, the density index determined in accordance
with AS 1289.5.6.1.
Relative Density:
The field dry density expressed in terms of maximum/minimum

densities established by laboratory test (used for cohesionless soils).
The specific minimum value should be determined with the Earthworks
Specifications.
Right of Way:
The strip of land over which railroads are built.
Rockfill:
Fill compacted almost exclusively of fragments of broken rock. It

generally consists of a large portion of gravel, cobble, and larger sized
fragments, and may contain large open voids.
Shoulder Distance:
Distance from the track centreline to the edge of the formation.
Soluble Soil:
Soil containing perishable particles such as gypsum or rock salt.
Stockpile:
Placement of material that has been selected, loaded, transported and

unloaded in a heap outside the confines of a borrow pit or of an
excavation that forms part of the works.
Structural Zone:
The upper zone of the embankment. Its thickness varies from 500 mm
to 1000 mm, depending on the CBR of the general fill.
Tolerance:
Range between the limits within which a dimension or position lies.
Top Soil:
A natural surface soil that may contain organic matter.
Unsuitable Material:
The material that occurs in the borrow site or below the foundation level
of embankment and is not considered as suitable due to its adverse
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
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ESC 410
characteristics as specified in Clause 8.
Design Requirements
4.1
General
Earthworks and formation design includes:
cuttings
embankments
capping layer.
New lines shall be constructed on a corridor wide enough to accommodate earthworks and
formation designed and constructed in accordance with the requirements in this document. The
corridor shall also accommodate associated drainage and access roads as detailed in relevant
RailCorp engineering standards.
4.2
Design investigation
Before any earthwork activity is undertaken, necessary assessment and investigation shall be
carried out to determine the nature, elements and extent of the work.
In the preliminary assessment, planning and design of earthworks, the following items shall be
considered:
4.3
Site investigation
Adjoining property
Preservation items
Rehabilitation
Drainage
Erosion and siltation
Sloping ground
Slope stability
Cuttings and trenches
Retaining walls
Problematic soils requiring special consideration including reactive (expansive) soils,

dispersive soils, collapsible soils, soluble soils, soft-compressible soils, and potential acid or
sulfate soils.
Compaction moisture content
Surcharging of slopes
Calculation of quantities
Geosynthetics (Geotextile, Geogrid, etc.)
Construction vibrations
Non-potable water to be used for soil compaction
Contamination
Design flood level

Where track is on a flood plain, the formation level shall be designed so that it is not overtopped in
a 1 in 100 year flood, subject to environmental impact assessment in accord with legislation and
assessment of the impact of potential flooding on earthworks and other structures.
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
Page 6 of 16
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4.4
ESC 410
Formation
Formation is the earthworks structure including all foundation, structural treatment and capping
layer on which ballast is laid.
The formation for single track mainlines and single track sidings shall comply with the appropriate
dimensions shown in Appendix 1.
The formation for double track mainlines and double track sidings shall comply with the appropriate
dimensions shown in Appendix 2.
The formation for multiple track mainlines and multiple track sidings shall comply with the
appropriate dimensions shown in Appendix 2, subject to the requirement that the water from one
track shall not cross another track to get away. For example, if there are three tracks, there shall be
at least one subsurface centre drain.
Shoulder distances shall comply with Appendix 3.
Track centres shall be in accordance with ESC 215 Transit Space.
Where reduced shoulder distances exist due to physical constraints, an assessment is to be made
of the need for safety refuges, handhold devices and limited clearance signs. The requirements are
specified in ESC 350 Retaining Walls and Platforms.
4.5
Documentation
All activities of earthworks shall be documented. Appropriate documents should be prepared in the
following stages:
Investigation and planning;
Design and specification;
Construction.
Cuttings
Design of cuttings shall provide for excavation of material within the limits of the batters including
benching and terracing of cut batters; cleaning of batter surfaces; treatment of cutting floors; and
foundation treatment below the embankment. Cuttings in both soil and rock should provide a
stable, safe foundation for the structure.
Benching in cuttings will be provided in both soil and rock as necessary.
5.1
Excavation
Excavation shall be carried out to the lines, levels, dimensions and slopes shown on the Drawings.
The excavated faces shall be neatly trimmed and the top edges of the cuttings neatly rounded.
Under cutting of the slopes shall not be permitted under any circumstances.
Excavation shall be carried out in such a manner as to prevent erosion or slip; working faces shall
be limited to safe height and slopes, and surfaces shall be drained to avoid ponding and erosion.
Batters will generally require fattening at the ends of cuttings owing to the presence of less stable
material. In all cuttings, undulations in the general plane of the batter shall not be permitted.
Overhanging and loose or unstable materials likely to slip shall be cut back, removed or stabilised.
Rock cuttings and exposed surfaces shall be excavated so as to obtain smooth, uniformly trimmed
surface.
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
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ESC 410
Excavation at the base of cutting shall be finished at a level to suit the capping thickness, with
cross falls and cess drains provided.
Prior to placing formation materials and carrying any designed foundation treatment, the cutting
floor shall be tested and inspected by the Geotechnical Engineer.
5.2
Batter Slopes
Batter slopes in soil and rock cuttings in excess of 3 m high and closer than 6 m from the track
centreline, shall be determined on the advice of the Geotechnical Engineer.
Unless shown otherwise on the Drawings or as advised above, cutting slopes should be in
accordance with the following guidelines:
Material
Slope
Horizontal
Vertical
Sand
2 2.5
1.0
Clay, loose gravel
2.0
1.0
Sandy clay, boulder clay, compacted

gravely soil, talus
1.75
1.0
Highly jointed, weathered rock
1.5
1.0
5*
Sound shale dipping sharply towards

railway formation, tight cemented gravel
1.0
1.0
6*
Ordinary rock
1.0
1.0
7*
Solid well bedded rock
0.25
1.0
* Maximum height without bench 7 m.

* Batter slopes in rocks shall be confirmed by the Geotechnical Engineer.
Slopes shown on the Drawings represent the estimated requirements for the expected types of
material and will be subject to re-determination on the basis of site inspection and investigation
during excavation. Where necessary, advice shall be obtained from the Geotechnical Engineer.
Embankments
6.1
Embankment Material
Embankment materials shall comply with Engineering Specification SPC 411 Earthworks Materials.
Embankments are earthfill or rockfill structures above an existing and/or excavated surface to
create the rail track formation.
The embankment shall consist of two zones of embankment material:
General Fill
Structural Zone.
General fill is the embankment below the structural zone.

The structural zone is the fill at the top of the embankment.
The thickness of the structural zone (H) is determined by the following relationship with the general
fill in the embankment:
for general fill with CBR* of 3 to 8%, H = 500 mm
for general fill with CBR* of 1 to 3%, H = 1000 mm.
* (Soaked California Bearing Ratio, Standard Compaction).

Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
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ESC 410
Material for use in the structural zone shall comply with SPC 411.
6.2
Compaction Standards
To achieve a stable and durable embankment, the material shall be prepared and compacted as
specified below.
The Compaction standards shall be as follows:
Compaction A:
Cohesive soils - Not less than 100% maximum dry density as

determined by AS.1289 Tests 5.1.1 and 5.3.1 (Standard Compaction)
Rock fill or cohesionless soils - No visible deflection of surface under 10

tonne vibratory rollers after 6 to 8 passes.
Compaction B:
Not less than 95% maximum dry density as determined by AS.1289

Tests 5.1.1 and 5.3.1 (Standard Compaction).
Embankments shall be compacted to:
6.3
General Fill:
Compaction B
Structural Zone:
Compaction A
Sampling and Testing

After compaction of each layer, sampling locations will be selected for moisture content and relative
density tests.
Field (in-situ) density and laboratory tests shall be carried out in accordance with Australian
Standards. The test results must be representative of the tested layer at its full depth, width and
length.
Proof rolling shall be carried out on all layers to detect any possible soft or unstable pocket.
6.4
Drainage Blanket
Where specified or directed by the Geotechnical Engineer, a free draining filter layer consisting of
hard durable crushed rock, river gravel or slag which is called drainage blanket, shall be provided
under the embankment.
6.5
Embankment Profile
Embankment batter slopes up to a height of 3 meters, shall be 2:1 (horizontal: vertical). For higher
embankments, the batter slopes shall be determined by stability analysis taking into account of
materials properties, height, foundation conditions, static and dynamic loading, and potential
seepage forces. Advice shall be sought from the Geotechnical Engineer if there is any doubt
concerning the embankment stability.
The completed batter must be free of rills running down the face of batter. Any loose material on
the batter shall be promptly removed as the work progresses.
6.6
Rock Facing of Embankments

Where shown on the Drawings, embankment batters (including embankments at bridge structures)
shall be provided with a facing of clean, hard, durable rocks (Rip-rap) separated from the earth fill
embankment with a graded filter or geotextile sheet in accordance with specifications given by SPC
411. Rock facing shall be placed outside of the general embankment dimensions.
Capping Layer
Capping is a compacted layer from selected materials that provides seal to the earthwork
underneath. The capping layer shall be constructed in a single layer having a compacted thickness
of minimum 150 millimetres.
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
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ESC 410
The material shall be spread in uniform horizontal layer so as to achieve the specified compacted
thickness for the full width of the capping layer. Capping is to be laid on subgrade with a minimum
CBR of 8%.
Capping material shall comply with Engineering Specification SPC 411 Earthworks Materials.
Compaction shall achieve a minimum dry density of 95 per cent Maximum Dry Density as
determined by AS 1289, Test 5.2.1.
The capping material shall be well mixed throughout the layer so that all voids are filled. The top of
the final layer shall be graded and trimmed, and material shall be added as necessary to produce
an even sealing layer.
Earthworks near Structures
8.1
General
For the purpose of this Clause, structures include bridge piers and abutments, wing walls, box
culverts, pipe culverts, headwalls, tunnels, retaining walls, platform walls, overhead wiring
structures, signal gantries and towers.
8.2
Construction
Care shall be exercised in constructing earthworks within 5m of structures to avoid damage to the
structures.
Non-vibratory compaction equipment shall be used within this distance and adjacent to the
structure as defined in the following table:
Structure
Compaction Method
Bridge abutment and wing

walls
Hand held compaction equipment for full structure height for a

distance of 2/3 H from wall (H = overall height of structure)
Pipe Culverts
Hand held compaction equipment for distance D from pipe to top

of pipe (D= diameter of pipe)
Box culverts & culvert wing

walls & retaining wall
Hand held compaction equipment for full structure height for a

distance 2/3 H from wall (H = overall height)
Compaction of earthworks near structures

Selected backfill shall be placed adjacent to structures in accordance to the following table. The
selected backfill shall consist of a granular material having a maximum dimension not exceeding 50
mm and a plasticity index, determined in accordance with AS 1289.3.3.1, neither less than 2 nor
more than 12. In the table, H = overall height of the structure.
Selected Backfill
Structure Type
Width
Height
Bridge Abutments
2m
Box Culverts, Precast Culverts
H/3
H + 300 mm
Corrugated Steel Pipes and Arches
0.5 m
H + 500 mm
Retaining Walls
H/3
Select fill adjacent to structures

The fill shall be placed in horizontal layers with a compacted thickness between 100 mm and 150
mm.
Layers shall be placed simultaneously on both sides of box culverts to avoid differential loading.
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ESC 410
Compaction shall start at the wall and proceed away from it.
The existing slope behind the structures shall be cut in the form of successive horizontal terraces,
each terrace being at least 1 meter in width and 600 mm in height.
In case of spill-through abutments, rocks shall not be dumped against the columns or retaining
walls but shall be built up evenly by hand placing around or against such structures.
In the case of framed structures, embankments at both ends of the structure shall be brought up
simultaneously and the difference between the levels of the embankments at the respective
abutments shall not exceed 500 mm unless otherwise specified in the Drawings or within the
specifications.
Adjacent to weep holes, free draining filter material encapsulated in a suitable geotextile fabric
should be placed, horizontally for at least 300 mm from, and vertically for 450 mm above the weep
- hole. Free draining material must be provided by broken stone or river gravel consisting of clean,
hard, durable particles graded from 50 mm to 10 mm such that:
8.3
the maximum particle dimension does not exceed 50 mm; and
no more than 5% by mass passes the 9.5 mm AS sieve.
Excavation
Care should also be exercised when excavating within 5m of structures (for example near
overhead wiring structures when benching into slopes for embankment widening or when
excavating for track reconditioning).
When excavating adjacent to structures, there is a risk that the footings may be undermined or the
structure destabilized, resulting in structural failure and potential collapse.
Excavations in the vicinity of structure footings are therefore not permitted unless documented
engineering advice and approval are obtained.
No excavation should be made within this 5m distance without prior analysis of structure stability
with respect to the effects of the excavation.
No excavation shall be made below the base of the footings of any structure (for example bridges,
retaining walls and station platform walls) without prior analysis of structure stability with respect to
the effects of the excavation.
The approval will be in the form of a certification by a competent geotechnical/structural engineer
with relevant engineering authority, based on the results of an appropriate geotechnical and/or
structural investigation.
Tolerances for Earthworks

Tolerances for different sections of earthworks shall comply with the following provisions:
9.1
Vertical Tolerances
9.1.1
In embankments
9.1.2
Top of the structural zone + 0 mm to 50 mm
Top of the general fill zone + 40 mm to 40 mm
In cuttings
Floor of cut (top of common earthworks): other than rock + 40 mm to 40 mm
Floor of cut (top of common earthworks): rock + 0 mm to 80 mm
Top of Structural Zone: other than rock + 0 mm to 50 mm
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9.1.3
At transitions between cut and fill
9.1.4
Top of benches and berms +50 to 50mm
Capping layer
9.2
Floor of cut to fill transition +0 to 50mm
Top of benches and berms
9.1.5
ESC 410
The finished surface of the capping shall be within 25mm of the level shown on the drawings
and:
The algebraic difference of the deviations from the correct level for any two points
20 metres apart on the centreline shall not exceed 15mm.
The deviation from a three (3) metre straight edge laid on the surface parallel to the
centreline shall not exceed 10mm.
Horizontal Tolerances
Base at top of cuts and fills, widths of benches and berms shall not to be less than specified
dimensions. Maximum positive tolerance is 300 mm, unless approved by the Geotechnical
Engineer.
The width of the capping layer from the design centreline to the finished top of embankment slopes
or toe of batters in cuttings shall be not less than the dimensions required by Appendix 3.
When the capping layer is tested with a three (3) metre straight edge laid perpendicular to the
centre line the deviation from design profile shall not exceed 10mm concavity.
10
Drainage
Cess drains; sub-surface drains, top drains and interceptor drains shall be provided for cuttings and
are to comply with the requirements in ESC 420 Track Drainage.
11
Ground Anchors
Ground anchors shall have a design life of 100 years.
Ground anchors shall comply with the requirements of AS 4678 Earth-retaining structures and
Technical Specification S38 Permanent Rock Anchors in RailCorp Engineering Specification SPC
301 Structures Construction.
The design of ground anchors shall include mitigation against the effects of stray currents.
The designer shall specify requirements for testing. Test procedures shall comply with Technical
Specification S38.
The designer shall specify requirements for long term monitoring, if any.
Anchor heads shall be protected so as not to be an obstruction. They shall be recessed or
protected by a continuous smooth surface of shotcrete, concrete etc.
Ground anchors shall not extend under private property without the approval of the Chief Engineer
Civil.
12
Train Examination Areas

Where nominated, train examination areas are to be provided. The minimum requirement is to
cover these areas with a 50mm layer of 10mm single sized aggregate as shown in Appendices 1
and 2.
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
Page 12 of 16
Version 2.0

ESC 410
The train examination area is not to be assumed as available for road access purposes.
13
Walkways
Where nominated, walkways are to be provided for staff to walk along the track cess. The
minimum requirement is to cover walkways with a 50mm layer of 10mm single sized aggregate as
in Appendices 1 and 2.
14
Rehabilitation of Formation
In rehabilitating the formation, the following shall be taken into account when preparing the work
plan and design:
Investigation and assessment of ground condition;
Rectification of drainage deficiencies;
Removal and disposal of failed ballast to the formation level;
Removal and disposal of failed formation material;
Provision of Capping Material on the original formation;
Provision of trench (ballast filled) drains;
Repair/rectification of degraded, ineffective, blocked or sagging culverts.
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
Page 13 of 16
Version 2.0
ESC 410
Single Track Cross Section

CL
Appendix 1
Shoulder Distance
Shoulder Distance
Rail Level
1.5 :1
1000 min.
1.5 :1
Ballast
1 in 30
Formation Level
1 in 30
1 in 10
Earthworks Level
Capping Layer
Batter Slope
Natural
Surface
EMBANKMENT
Where space permits,

increase this distance to
allow
for
mechanized
maintenance equipment.
1000 min
CL
Batter Slope
Shoulder Distance
Shoulder Distance
Batter Slope
Top drain
1.5 :1
1.5 :1
Ballast
1 in 30
1 in 30
Capping Layer
Cess drain
ROCK
Additional area to be used

for drainage where grade in
cutting is less than 1 in 200
or where additional drainage
is required.
EARTH
CUTTING
CL

Shoulder Distance
Shoulder Distance
1250
50 min.
Rail Level
1.5 :1
1 in 30
1 in 30
1 in 30
1.5 :1
Formation Level
Earthwork Level
1 in 30
Capping Layer
Typical section where shunters and

guards walkways are required.
Typical section where examinations

areas are specified.
SPECIAL WIDTH REQUIREMENTS
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
Page 14 of 16
Version 2.0
Appendix 2
ESC 410
Double Track Cross Section

Shoulder Distance
1000 min.
1 in 10
Shoulder Distance
Track Centres
Rail Level
1.5 :1
1
1.5 :1
Ballast
in
Formation
Earthworks Level
Natural
Capping
Surface
Batter Slope
EMBANKMENT
Where space permits,

increase this distance to
allow
for
mechanized
maintenance equipment.
1000 min.
Batter Slope

Shoulder Distance
Track Centres
Shoulder Distance
Batter Slope
1.5
:1
1.5 :1
Ballast
1 in 30
EARTH
ROCK
Top Drain
Capping Layer
Cess Drain
Additional area to be used

for drainage where grade in
cutting is less than 1 in 200
or where additional drainage
is required.
CUTTING
Shoulder Distance
3 :1
1.5 :1
3 :1
1.5 :1
1 in 30
1 in 30
in
Subsurface Drain
Capping
1 in 30
Surface Drain
CENTRE DRAIN
Shoulder
50 min.
1.5 :1
1 in 30
1 in 30
Capping
Typical section where shunters and
guards walkways are required.
SPECIAL WIDTH REQUIREMENTS
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
Page 15 of 16
Version 2.0

Appendix 3
ESC 410
Shoulder Distance
Shoulder distance
Plain track
mm
Main line (Electrified or non-electrified)
4250
Siding (Electrified)
4250
Siding (non-electrified)
3000
Main line or siding with parallel access road (Electrified)
6200
Main line or siding with parallel access road (Non-electrified)
5500
Special Requirements
Rail Corporation
Issued July 2010
Shunters and guards parallel walkways
4250
Train Examination areas
5500
Train Examination areas with parallel access road
7750
Clear width of road from back of any structure
3000
Page 16 of 16
Version 2.0

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Technical Note - TN 059: 2015

For queries regarding this document

Technical Note - TN 059: 2015

Withdrawal of ESC 410 Earthworks and

Lead Civil Engineer

A/Chief Engineer Rail

State of NSW through Transport for NSW

Technical Note - TN 033: 2015

For queries regarding this document

Technical Note - TN 033: 2015

Update to RailCorp engineering standards

Earthworks and Formation

Service Installations within the Rail Corridor

Legacy RailCorp Standards Interpretation - Management

Guide to interpretation of organisational role and process

Interpretation guide RailCorp SMS References within

State of NSW through Transport for NSW

Technical Note - TN 033: 2015

Embankment/cut slope instability due to toe

State of NSW through Transport for NSW

Technical Note - TN 033: 2015

Figure 1 - Vertical toe cut leading to slip failure

Figure 2 - Vertical toe cut leading to slip failure

State of NSW through Transport for NSW

Technical Note - TN 033: 2015

Lead Civil Engineer

A/Chief Engineer Rail

State of NSW through Transport for NSW

Principal Engineer Geotechnical

UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED

RailCorp Engineering Standard Geotechnical

Summary of changes from previous version

Additional definitions included

Clarification of requirements for double vs multiple tracks

Minor changes to design requirements for cuttings

New Section on tolerances for earthworks

New Section on repair and overhaul of track formation

UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED

RailCorp Engineering Standard Geotechnical

Purpose, Scope and Application ............................................................................................................ 4

Australian and International Standards ......................................................................................... 4

Design Requirements .............................................................................................................................. 6

Earthworks near Structures .................................................................................................................. 10

Tolerances for Earthworks .................................................................................................................... 11

Ground Anchors ..................................................................................................................................... 12

Train Examination Areas ....................................................................................................................... 12

Appendix 1 Single Track Cross Section ...................................................................................................... 14

UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED

RailCorp Engineering Standard Geotechnical

Purpose, Scope and Application

Australian and International Standards

Methods of testing soils for engineering purposes

Earth retaining structures

Retaining Walls and Platforms

Excavation made for the procurement of material

Layer of compacted material that provides a sealing layer to the

Soaked California Bearing Ratio, determined on a compacted sample.

Material consisting mostly of sand and gravel mixture, generally with

Material consisting mostly of silt and clay and has a well-defined

Soil that may suffer a significant decrease in volume under load or

The process whereby the density of soil is increased by mechanical

Material that may contain toxic substances or soluble compounds

The activities covered by this specification