The UIC “Exceptional Consignments” working group held a hybrid meeting at UIC headquarters on 11 and 12 September 2023, with 35 participants attending in person and online. The meeting began with a warm welcome from Sandra Balting, Chair of the UIC Exceptional Consignments working group, followed by a series of important discussions on various topics.
Topic 1: IRS 50502-1 UIC profile system implementation and use
The group discussed the implementation and use of the UIC profile system (IRS 50502-1) and agreed on the need to create two working groups:
1. Technical Working Group – Focusing on knowledge management, documentation, tool evolution and sharing.
2. Administrative/Organisational Working Group – Responsible for managing the deployment of the profile to ensure international functionality.
The working groups will meet twice a year in a hybrid format, led by Sandra Balting and Paulo de Freitas, UIC Freight Senior Advisor. Several companies, including DB InfraGO, DB Cargo AG, Infrabel, SBB Cargo, OBB Infrastruktur and others, volunteered to participate in both groups.
Topic 2: UIC Loading Guidelines update
The participants reviewed the UIC Loading Guidelines (Vol. 1, Table 1) and discussed its scope, particularly regarding the overall loading dimensions. A key question was raised on whether future references should use railway undertakings (RUs), infrastructure managers (IMs) or country codes.
Topic 3: ISO new work item proposal
Paulo de Freitas presented the proposal for a new ISO working group to develop an ISO standard on the “Transportation of Exceptional Consignments – Terms and Definitions”. Three countries – China, Russia and Germany – are involved so far. Their progress will be communicated following further discussions with the UIC Standardisation Unit.
Topic 4: IRS 50502 – Editorial and substantive changes
Participants worked on identifying necessary editorial and substantive changes for the new edition of IRS 50502. They focused on risk assessments, environmental impacts and the need to define and mitigate risks within the system. Sandra Balting noted that the German version of the document is the original and that all modifications should be finalised by the next meeting.
Topic 5: Modular Freight System Project
Stefano Guidi from the UIC Rail System Department presented a project proposal on the Modular Freight System. The project aims to define safe operational conditions for “modular systems” composed of loading units and carrier wagons. It is expected to last two years with an annual budget of €100,000. The project has garnered support from Infrabel, OBB and some manufacturers.
Next meeting
The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for 14 and 15 May 2025, in Florence or Rome, hosted by RFI.
Paulo de Freitas will prepare the new edition of IRS 50502 for publication following this meeting. He concluded by noting that such discussions are invaluable for fostering agility, finding solutions, building consensus and improving future processes.
