Changes in the regulations governing rail traffic in Poland require not only the updating of procedures, but also the implementation of modern IT tools. One of the key areas is written orders, i.e., formal instructions given to train drivers in situations that deviate from the normal rules of traffic management.
The RailSoft system, in its mobile (mRails), desktop and web versions (RailSoft 3.0 WEB), responds to these needs by offering a consistent digital environment for the creation, distribution, archiving, and analysis of written orders and European instructions – in full compliance with the new version of the Ir-1 instructions effective from December 14, 2025.
Legal and regulatory basis
Obsługa rozkazów pisemnych w RailSoft została zaprojektowana w oparciu o aktualne i nadchodzące regulacje prawne, w szczególności:
- Section 10(2) of the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of January 11, 2021 (Journal of Laws 2021, item 199),
- Instructions for operating Ir-1 trains as a set of rules of PKP Polskie Linie Kolejowe S.A.
- Resolution No. 752/2025 of the Management Board of PKP PLK S.A. of September 9, 2025, introducing amendments to Ir-1, announced in Bulletin No. 24 of September 18, 2025,
- Network Regulations 2025/2026, subsection 2.4 “Traffic restrictions.”
These changes will come into force on December 14, 2025, and carriers will be required to equip train drivers or rail vehicles with electronic devices enabling digital reception of orders and warnings by June 14, 2026.
What are written orders and European instructions?
Written orders (Class B system – SHP)
According to Chapter 8 of Instruction Ir-1 (§ 58), written orders are formal instructions issued to train drivers by traffic controllers. They are used for trains operating in the Class B – SHP railway traffic control system.
They are used to transmit:
- permits,
- commands,
- information about restrictions and emergency situations,
- data concerning track works or damage to SRK equipment.
Orders may be in paper or electronic form and may be transmitted physically, electronically, or by radio communication.
European instructions (Class A system – ERTMS/ETCS)
European instructions serve a similar function, but are intended for trains operating in the Class A system – ERTMS (ETCS with GSM-R). They are also formal in nature, are drawn up on standardized forms, and can be distributed in paper or digital form.
RailSoft as a response to new requirements
One business logic, multiple environments
The RailSoft extension enables the handling of written orders and European instructions in three complementary environments:
- mRails (mobile) – quick access in the field,
- Desktop – an extensive interface for dispatchers,
- RailSoft 3.0 WEB – access via a browser with full desktop functionality.
A key feature of the solution is consistent business logic and data synchronization across all devices and platforms.
Functionalities of the “Written Orders” module
RailSoft is designed to enable full process support, from document creation to archiving and reporting.
Creating and editing
- a new order structure model, compliant with current PKP PLK guidelines,
- data validation and completeness checks,
- linking the order to operational data (train number, driver).
Document circulation
- generating, approving, and delivering orders,
- handling of paper and electronic forms,
- the ability to take a photo of an order (quick mode in mRails).
Archiving and exporting
- secure digital archive,
- export to PDF,
- preparation of documentation for supervisory authorities, such as UTK.
Integrations and reporting
- integration with other RailSoft modules,
- register of written orders,
- operational analyses and statistics concerning the issuance of orders.
mRails – mobile access for train drivers and traffic control services
The mobile version of mRails has been designed for field work. It offers:
- recording and editing orders,
- quick printing of written orders and European instructions,
- the ability to take a photo of a document,
- immediate access to current data.
This solution significantly reduces response times and minimizes the risk of errors in critical situations.
Desktop and RailSoft 3.0 WEB – critical management center.
The desktop and web versions provide:
- richer user interface,
- extended filters and registers,
- integration with master systems and WebAPI,
- full functionality regardless of your workplace – all you need is a web browser.
Integration with PKP PLK REST API
Until June 14, 2026, orders will be distributed by PKP PLK using REST API, which returns data in JSON format. The API response will include, among other things:
- PDF file encoded in BASE64,
- additional information fields.
RailSoft is prepared for this integration, which paves the way for:
- real-time command transmission,
- no need to stop the train,
- automatic document archiving,
- elimination of errors resulting from dictating content over the radio.
Benefits for RailSoft users
The implementation of the “Written Orders” module in RailSoft brings real improvements:
- compliance with Ir-1 effective December 14, 2025,
- readiness for integration with REST API by June 14, 2026, at the latest,
- centralization and digitization of document circulation,
- reduction of operational errors thanks to automatic validations,
- full transparency and data security,
- Quick access to archives during inspections and analyses.
Summary
The Written Orders module in RailSoft is a next-generation tool that provides real support to carriers and dispatch services in adapting to the new PKP PLK regulations. Thanks to full legal compliance, process digitization, and integration with REST API, RailSoft ensures safety, continuity of operation, and future-proof railway traffic management.
