For regulated industries, offering the best and most competitive service while complying with regulatory bodies is quite a hurdle. The passenger rail industry is no exception, operating as it does through privately owned regional franchises, regulations are set and directed by the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA). The franchise agreements are held between the SRA and the train operating company (TOC) and each train operator is required to comply with rail regulations in order to maintain their franchise. Failure to do so seriously jeopardises the franchise, and can result in loss of licence.

Background to the training need

The Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) is the official voice for the passenger rail industry – representing train companies to the SRA, the government and other opinion formers on transport policy issues. ATOC manages many joint activities for train operators including revenue allocation and settlement, National Rail enquiries, railcard marketing, staff travel arrangements, international products, and travel agent licensing.