The Rio Tinto Rail Access Roads between Dampier / Tom Price and Cape Lambert / Pannawonica were built to provide maintenance access to their railway, and include more than 1400km of gravel road running throughout the Pilbara. Everybody travelling on these roads must obtain a 30 day permit, which is available from the Karratha Visitor Centre, Roebourne Visitor Centre, Tom Price Visitor Centre and the Pannawonica Library.
The Rio Tinto Rail Permit can also be obtained online via the Rio Tinto Website. Scroll to the bottom of the page and select the option that says ‘Complete rail access road permit training’ (in red text).
Safety Information
The user/s acknowledge that they utilise the Rio Tinto Access Road(s) at their own risk and as consideration for being permitted to use the road, agree to indemnify Rio Tinto and its employees against loss or damage which may be suffered as a result. This authority is conditional upon observance of the Road Traffic Act of WA, Statutory Speed Limits and all warning signs that may be displayed. This road is part of a work site and heavy equipment and vehicles operate on it and must be given right of way at all times. Vigilance must be maintained for obstructions and prevailing road conditions.
Persons travelling on the access roads need to be aware of the following:
1. The road is part of a mining lease, consequently no alcohol may be taken onto the road at any time.
2. Driver/s must be prepared to meet heavy railway maintenance vehicles at all times.
3. Rio Tinto may request you to stop and submit to a random breath test at any times whilst travelling along the Access Road.
4. Sections of the road have steep grades and sharp curves. SLOW speed is strongly advised.
5. In heavy rain, many sections of this maintenance road are dangerous or impassable due to flash flooding or washouts. Check that the road is open prior to commencing journey, particularly after rains.
6. User/s of the road are required to slow down when passing men or equipment anywhere along the road or railway line.
7. Where the road crosses the railway line, vehicles are required to stop to check that the line is clear and give way to all rail traffic.
8. Vehicles with an overall length greater than 8 metres are not permitted on this road between 259 km and 279 km. Rock barriers to prevent passage of such vehicles are in place at 273 km and 278 km.
9. For heavy and over gauge loads, piloting is required.
10. Headlights must be switched on whilst travelling on the Access Road.
The road is patrolled by company security officers and their instructions must be obeyed. Rio Tinto monitors vehicle speed by random radar check. Drivers infringing will have their authority withdrawn.
Tips for Road Users
1. Always ensure that your vehicle is reliable, including tyres and spares.
2. Always carry sufficient food and water for at least 48 hours in case of a breakdown or stranding.
3. Avoid travelling during the wet season as it is possible to be stranded between flooded waterways for several days.
4. Always travel at a safe speed because assistance may be a long time reaching any injured person.