Critical Element Designation System in Rail Transport in the Czech Republic

Abstract

In EU countries, the railway sector is referred to as a sub-sector of transport critical infrastructure. However, in addition to the critical infrastructure elements, the railway infrastructure also includes elements which do not meet given cross-cutting and sectoral criteria, but are nonetheless essential or even critical for a given area (region). These elements must therefore be identified in a timely and correct manner so that adequate security measures can be adopted. Yet one of the major issues with regard to protecting these elements at regional level remains the lack of a complex approach to and criteria for their evaluation and designation. In consideration of the above, the article aims to introduce a system for designating critical elements in railway transport in the Czech Republic, as developed by VSB – Technical University of Ostrava. The basis for the designation system constitutes a framework which defines the principal areas determining, limiting and influencing the process of critical element designation. This process is based on the identification and analysis of key elements, the determination of the level of criticality and, subsequently, the designation of critical elements with a view to ensuring their protection. The evaluation process hinges on evaluation criteria which are specific for line, point and areal elements of railway infrastructure. In conclusion, the article suggests some useful ways in which the critical element designation system in rail transport in the Czech Republic can be modified and utilized.