At Medicals Australia, we recognise the critical importance of safety within the rail industry. 

Our nationwide network of authorised medical clinics conduct all assessments efficiently and in full compliance with the National Standard for Rail Safety Worker Medicals.

Medicals Australia is committed to supporting the rail industry with reliable, compliant, and high-quality medical assessments that help maintain the highest standards of occupational health and safety across Australia.

Railway Medical Assessments: Category 1, 2 and 3

At Medicals Australia United, we specialise in providing Occupational Medical Assessments and Pre-Employment Medical Assessments across Australia. A key part of this service includes facilitating Railway Medical Assessments every day for recruiters, employers, and contractors nationwide.

These assessments are mandated under the National Standard for Health Assessment of Rail Safety Workers to ensure that every rail worker is medically fit for the safety requirements of their role.

A risk management approach is used by Australian Rail Authorities to determine which level of health assessment applies to different types of rail safety work.

The Three Categories Explained

Category 1 – Safety Critical, High Risk

Applies to rail safety workers in safety-critical roles where sudden illness or incapacity (such as blackout, collapse, or cardiac event) could directly cause a serious incident affecting public safety or the rail network.
Examples: Train drivers, hand signallers, shunters.
Validity:

• Up to 5 years for workers aged 50 years and under
• Every 2 years for workers aged 50–60
• More frequent if clinically required

Category 2 – Safety Critical, Moderate Risk

Applies to rail workers whose roles are safety critical, but where sudden incapacity is unlikely to place the public or rail network at immediate risk. Disruption to operations is possible, but large-scale safety risks are lower.
Examples: Train guards, terminal operators.
Validity:

• Up to 5 years for workers aged 50 years and under
• Every 2 years for workers aged 50–60
• More frequent if clinically required

Category 3 – Non-Safety Critical (Around the Track Safety)

Applies to workers who perform non-safety critical tasks but work on, near, or around railway tracks. Their health must allow them to move safely, remain alert, and protect themselves and others.
Examples: Trackside workers, contractors, ticketed on-track vehicle operators.
Validity:

• Every 5 years

What Type of Assessment Do I Need?

The correct assessment depends on the type of railway work being performed. If you are unsure, the relevant Australian Rail Authority or your contracting employer can confirm the category required.

Common Questions

How long will the assessment take?

The duration depends on the category of medical and the worker’s individual health requirements. A general guide is 1 – 1/12 hours.

Who sees my results?

Your medical details remain confidential. Employers do not receive personal health information. Instead, you will receive a Certificate of Fitness, which simply states your ability to carry out rail safety work. This certificate may be provided by you or directly by the AHP to your employer, who must keep it available for the relevant Rail Authority if required.

Where do I go for the assessment?

Railway health assessments must be performed by an Authorised Health Professional. Through our nationwide clinic network, Medicals Australia United can organise appointments at the most convenient clinic—whether in capital cities, regional centres, or remote outback locations.

Who pays for the assessment?

For contractors, the cost of the medical is the responsibility of the individual or employer. Australian Rail Authorities do not cover contractor health assessments.

New Edition of the National Standard for Health Assessment of Rail Safety Workers 

The new edition of the National Standard for Health Assessment of Rail Safety Workers came into effect on 11 November 2024. From this date forward, Medicals Australia facilitates all rail worker health assessments across Australia in strict accordance with the updated standard. This ensures we continue to meet all compliance requirements and maintain the highest standards of occupational health and safety within the rail industry.

Why Choose Medicals Australia United?

• Nationwide Coverage – From metro to regional and remote areas, we’ll find the closest suitable clinic. We partner with 350+ clinics across Australia.
• Experience You Can Trust – We deliver Occupational Medical Assessments and Railway Assessments every day across Australia.
• Fast & Reliable Service – We streamline bookings, paperwork, and results so your workforce is ready without delay.

At Medicals Australia United, our focus is on making pre-employment medical assessments, occupational medical assessments, and railway medicals straightforward and compliant. With our reach and expertise, recruiters and employers know their workforce is safe, fit, and ready for work.

📞 Contact Medicals Australia United today on 07 2145 8599 to arrange a Category 1, 2, or 3 Railway Medical Assessment for your workforce.