Sector Updates
Transport, Postal and Warehousing
The following information covers activity in this sector for last month, if any, and includes activities involving international participation, recent publications, and withdrawals or reconfirmations of publications.
For a listing of all drafts open for public comment across all sectors, visit comment.standards.org.au
Recent Publications
Powered industrial trucks, Part 2: Operations
Product Designation: AS 2359.2:2026
Abstract: AS 2359.2:2026 specifies requirements for the operation, maintenance, repair and modification of self-propelled industrial trucks, their attachments (defined in AS ISO 5053.1) and guidance for the design of workplaces they are used.
History: Originated as AS 1280-1972. Revised and redesignated as AS 2359.2-1980. Previous edition AS 2359.2-2013. This document AS 2359.2:2026.
Manual of uniform traffic control devices, Part 14: Traffic signals
Product Designation: AS 1742.14:2026
Abstract: AS 1742.14:2026 specifies the type and layout of signals, aspects and displays to be used at locations controlled by traffic signals including overhead lane control devices
History: Originated as AS 1742.14-1996. Revised and designated as AS 1742.14:2014. Third edition 2026.
Rolling Stock Onboard Electrical Energy Storage
Product Designation: AS 7486:2026
Abstract: The objective of this document is to provide guidance to rail transport operators (RTOs) for the specification and utilization of onboard batteries and electric double-layer capacitors (EDLC) used for traction purposes (propulsion and braking). This document provides guidance to ensure that they are used safely, effectively and reliably in the Australian context and networks, throughout the life of the energy storage system (ESS). This document provides a basis for RTOs, vehicle manufacturers and ESS manufacturers to understand and communicate the requirements on ESS.The document provides guidance and an understanding of:• ESS design principles to support safety and reliability;• the ESS’s through life assessment factors;• the ESS testing and certification requirements; and• the hazards and risks associated with the ESS integration into vehicles.This document builds on existing national and international standards by providing additional guidance and requirements for ESS. See Appendix B for a summary of system and subsystem levels applicable to these standards.Performance based requirements, recommendations and guidance do not replicate existing published requirements and recommendations.The review updates AS 7527 to match current technology and better security needs. It adds stronger rules for cybersecurity and protecting data. It also includes more types of data, such as for remote vehicles, GPS, and passenger safety. The Standard sets clearer rules for data accuracy, timing, and how long data must be kept. It also requires regular checks and good maintenance of the system.
History: First published as AS 7486:2022. This document AS 7486:2026.
Track Forces and Stresses
Product Designation: AS 7508:2026
Abstract: The objective of this Standard is to describe the requirements to limit the forces and contact stresses exerted on the track by rolling stock and to align with AS 7630 Track Classification. The main purpose of the requirements is to reduce the likelihood of accelerated degradation of the infrastructure and reduce the risk of derailment.
History: First published as AS 7508:2017. This document AS 7508:2026.
Rolling Stock Event Recorders
Product Designation: AS 7527:2026
Abstract: The objective of this Standard is to describe the performance and technical requirements for event recorders installed in locomotives, self-propelled passenger, and infrastructure maintenance rolling stock.The primary purpose of the requirements is to ensure that event recorders fitted to rolling stock capture a minimum set of appropriate data for the use of Rolling Stock Operators (RSO), Rail Infrastructure Managers (RIM), maintainers and investigators in the forensic investigations of rail incidents.The review updates AS 7527 to match current technology and better security needs. It adds stronger rules for cybersecurity and protecting data. It also includes more types of data, such as for remote vehicles, GPS, and passenger safety. This document sets clearer rules for data accuracy, timing, and how long data must be kept. It also requires regular checks and good maintenance of the system.
History: First published as AS 7527:2015. This document AS 7527:2026.
Brake Components, Part 1: Brake Blocks
Product Designation: AS 7504.1:2026
Abstract: The objective of this standard is to describe the requirements for the manufacture and testing of cast iron and composite brake blocks to be installed on:a) locomotives and hauled rolling stock;b) self-propelled passenger rolling stock; and c) infrastructure maintenance rolling stock.
History: First published as AS 7504:2018. This document AS 7504.1:2026.
Management of Network Route Competence
Product Designation: AS 7454:2026
Abstract: The objective of this document is to specify the principles for the development, training, and assessment of route competence for rail traffic crew (RTC), and to provide guidance to rolling stock operators (RSO) on the development and management of route competence programs. This document supports rail transport operators (RTO) in meeting their Rail Safety National Law obligations for the competence of rail safety workers and for managing risks associated with route knowledge and route competence.
History: First published as AS 7454:2017. This document AS 7454:2026.
Rolling Stock Outlines
Product Designation: AS 7507:2026
Abstract: The objective of this Standard is to define the requirements for assessing whether the physical size and predicted kinematic behaviour of candidate rolling stock comply with the rolling stock outlines specified by the Rail Infrastructure Manager (RIM).
History: First published as AS 7507:2017. This document AS 7507:2026.
Brake Systems, Part 1: Locomotive Rolling Stock
Product Designation: AS 7510.1:2026
Abstract: The objective of this document is to provide safety benefits in that proper braking performance contributes to the prevention of collisions or derailments of railway rolling stock by providing controls for known hazards.This document describes minimum standards for brake performance, features and compatibility for the braking systems of locomotives.This document is intended to compliment the rolling stock compliance certification process outlined in AS 7501, including new and modified locomotives.
History: First published as AS 7510.1:2014. This document AS 7510.1:2026.
