Acceleration, Breaking And Hand Over Flashcards
What does DRA stand for
Drivers reminder appliance
What is the DRA used for and how does it work
When “on” it prevents the train from taking power, used as a reminder of the next signal aspect, to mitigate the driver from having a SPAD
When stopping at a station platform or at a signal at danger, when must you set the DRA
If the starting signal is at danger or you don’t have the MA beyond this station
Stopped at any signal at danger.
When stopped at a station platform or a signal at danger with DRA on, when can you reset the DRA
The signal is cleared or MA is given
You’ve been given authority to pass the signal at danger
You’re allowed to pass the signal at danger on your own authority (complying with the rule book)
When entering a driving cab before starting a journey, or when taking over from another driver, check the DRA is
Set “on”
If you’re at a platform starting signal, you must only reset the DRA when
The starting signal has been cleared
You’ve been given authority to pass the signal at danger
You’re allowed to pass the signal at danger under your own authority (following the rule book)
What are the risks of DRA misuse or overuse
DRA is designed to prevent a SPAD, not a form of in cab signalling
DRA overuse can reduce its effectiveness and result in increased risk
What’s the risks in setting the DRA before the train stops
DRA prevents you from taking power so you may stop short, or not be able to take more power to stop in the correct position if required
When must you set the DRA
When leaving the cab
Changing ends
Being relieved by another driver
Relieving another driver
Being held at stop boards
When stopped at a station with no staring signal and the last signal was single yellow
What is considered as a starting signal
A stop signal, either semaphore or colour light at the end of a platform.
Where the longest passenger train to use the platform, if stopped at the signal would still have a portion of the passengers accommodated
Where the front of the train passes over AWS equipment associated with the signal
What can cause low railhead adhesion
Contaminated from oils or diesel
Leaf fall
Rainfall, particularly after dry periods
Snow or ice
What must you do when leaving a train for another driver
Brake in full service
DRA on
Direction selector to “OFF”
Remove drivers key
Close cab door securely behind you.
What must you advise the relieving driver of, when changing over
Any train defects & if they’ve been reported
Driving characteristics
Any poor railhead condition noted
Alterations to the service
Last signal if no starting signal
Instructions from signaller
Other operational information
What are the risks of wrongfully identifying the starting signal
Moving without authority
Conflicting movements
SPAD
Collisions with other train movements
Derailment at trap points
Where can details of route clearance be found
Sectional appendix
