Assessment 2 (Revision) Flashcards
What are the meanings of each signal identification plate in the picture?
- Controlled signal
- Automatic signal
- Semi-automatic signal
- Intermediate block signal
- Distant signal
- Outer distant signal
- Banner repeating signal
- Three state (or Tri state) banner repeating signal
- Co-acting signal
What is a banner repeating signal?
Banner repeating signals are provided on approach to signals which have restricted sighting time, to give drivers advance information of the signal aspect.
What is a co-acting signal?
Co-acting signals are used when a signal is difficult for the driver to see due to an obstruction. It will show the same aspect as the main aspect signal, but is placed in a location (normally opposite the main aspect signal) that’s easier for drivers to see.
What is the position of each junction indicator, and what route does each junction indicator signal? (Use the image below).
A. 1 & first route to the left
B. 4 & first route to the right
C. 2 & second route to the left
D. 5 & second route to the right
E. 3 & third route to the left
F. 6 & third route to the right
What does a flashing yellow aspect mean?
The route, at a junction ahead, is set, and that diverging route is at a lower speed than that of the straight route.
What is a route indicator?
An indicator, at the signal, which will display either a letter or number to show the route onto which the movement is being signalled.
What indications will a semaphore stop signal display for:
- Danger
- Clear
- Danger
Indication by day: arm horizontal
Indication by night: red light - Clear
Indication by day: arm raised or lowered 45°
Indication by night: green light
When a semaphore subsidiary signal is cleared, what does it authorise the driver to do?
Pass the main signal at danger, but proceed at caution towards the next train, signal or buffer stop, and be prepared to stop short of any obstruction.
At some locations, a semaphore subsidiary signal will show an indicator displaying either the letter ‘C’ or ‘S’. What do these indications mean?
C. Calling-on
Authorises the driver to proceed at caution towards the next train, signal or buffer stop, and be prepared to stop short of any obstruction.
S. Shunt-ahead
Authorises the driver to proceed for shunting purposes only.
Under what circumstances can a passenger train proceed on a position light signal, and what aspect must the signal display?
When the position light is on a running line, the main aspect signal in rear is cleared to proceed, and the position light is showing two white lights at 45°, it becomes a running position light (and a route proven signal) allowing the driver to proceed beyond the signal.
When can a driver proceed past a stop board?
- The instructions on the stop board have been carried out.
- Permission to do so has been given by the authorised person (I.e., depot driver, yard controller or shunter).
How far beyond certain signals are SPAD indicators normally positioned?
50 metres
What are each of these signs called and what do they mean?
A. Limited clearance sign
There is no position of safety on this side of the railway for the length of the structure. It is not safe to enter or stand at that location when a train is approaching.
B. No refuges warning sign
There is no position of safety on this side of the railway for the length of the structure. However, there are positions of safety, or refuges, on the opposite side of the railway line.
C. Prohibition Sign
Staff must not pass beyond this sign while trains are running unless carrying out emergency protection. This is because it would not be possible to reach a position of safety or refuge safely. Extreme care is necessary if carrying out emergency protection.
What does it mean when a signal post telephone has a yellow or white diamond with the letter X, or a yellow roundel, and when can it be used?
The signal post telephone is not in a position of safety.
It may only be used to contact the signaller:
- In an emergency
- If told that the adjacent line has been blocked.
What does it mean when a signal post telephone has a limited clearance warning sign, and when can it be used?
A train driver may use the signal post telephone because it is in a position of safety in relation to the adjacent line and protection is provided by the presence of the train.
The telephone may only be used by other staff to contact the signaller:
- In an emergency
- If told that the line to which it applies has been blocked.
What are these signs called, and what do they inform the driver of?
Countdown markers.
They inform the driver of the distance between the sign and the signal concerned.
- Three marks - distance to signal normally 300m.
- Two marks - distance to signal normally 200m.
- One mark - distance to signal normally 100m.
What are these signs called, and what do they inform the driver of?
Sandite markers
Inform the driver of sites where Sandite should be applied.
- Three marks - advance warning of Sandite application site.
- Two marks - start applying Sandite.
- One mark - stop applying Sandite.
What is the definition of ‘On or near the line’?
You are on or near the line if you are:
- within 3 metres (10 feet) of a line and there is not a permanent structure between you and the line.
- on the line itself
What is the minimum distance required to be in a position of safety if:
- The maximum speed of the line is 100 mph or less?
- The maximum speed of the line is over 100 mph?
- 1.25 metres (4 feet) from the nearest line.
- 2 metres (6 feet 6 inches) from the nearest line.
What must you know before going on or near the line?
- Maximum speed of each line
- Direction of travel of each line
- Locations with limited clearance
- Location of any area you must not enter while trains are running.
What methods should be used to show a hand danger signal to stop a train in an emergency?
During daylight:
* You must show a red flag.
* If you do not have a red flag, raise both arms above your head.
* If you are riding on a vehicle, raise one arm held out horizontally.
During darkness or in poor visibility:
* You must show a red light to the driver, or
* Wave any light violently
What must you do after a train accident (i.e., a derailment, collision with an obstruction, etc.)?
- You must immediately switch on the hazard warning indication where provided. If you cannot do this, you must display a red light forward.
- You must inform the signaller about the accident, and advise whether the power to the traction unit needs to be switched off. You must then check:
- if any other lines are obstructed, and decide the quickest way to stop any approaching trains
- the exact location of your train.
- When the signaller tells you that signal protection has been provided, you must place a track-circuit operating clip on:
- every other line that is obstructed, and
- the line on which your train is standing if the whole train has been derailed.
- If the signaller cannot provide signal protection, or you have not been able to contact the signaller, you must carry out emergency protection.
What are the steps you must take when making an emergency call to the signaller?
- Say “This is an emergency call”
- Confirm you are speaking to the correct signaller.
- State who you are (drive of ‘train headcode’)
- State where you are speaking from.
- Provide exact location and details of the accident including which lines:
- are definitely blocked, and
- the lines you think could be blocked
- If you think power to the traction unit needs to be switched off.
- Advise which emergency services are needed.
- If necessary, let the signaller know how you can be contacted.
- Repeat back all instructions given so that the signaller knows you correctly understand.
What are you responsible for when reporting for duty?
- Report at the right time
- Report at the right location (allocated booking point or other agreed location)
- Being fit for duty (well rested, free from drugs and alcohol and in uniform)
- In possession of the right equipment (all equipment present and in working order)
What must you do in the following situations?
- If you are unable to attend work for any reason
- If you are late for your rostered turn
- If you are taking medication which may affect your ability to carry out your duties
- If you are not in possession of any equipment or publications
Inform the Duty Traincrew Manager (DTM) or Driver Manager immediately.
What information does the Traincrew Information Monitor display?
- Emergency speed restrictions (located between Ilford and Bow Junction)
- Weather forecast
- Safety of the line notices
* Emergency single line working
* Temporary block emergency special working
* Blanket speed restrictions
What sections are include within the Weekly Operating Notice (WON)?
Section A: Temporary speed restrictions
Section B: Engineering works
Section C: Signalling and permanent way alterations
Section D: General instructions
- Safety notices
What does the Periodical Operating Notice (PON) contain?
Alterations to permanent publications.
What must you do at the end of your duty, prior to going home?
- Check the roster to confirm your next turn
- Complete and hand in any reports
If a signal reverts to danger in front of you, what must you do?
- Stop your train immediately and report the incident to the signaller
- You may be required to complete paperwork (RT3185 form)
- If you feel you are not in a fit state to continue to drive, report circumstances to signaller and control.
If you are involved in a near miss incident whilst driving, what must you do, and what steps are involved?
- Report the incident immediately to the signaller, stopping the train specially if necessary.
- Confirm to the signaller whether you are okay to continue driving. If not, relief will be arranged.
- A Driver Manager (DM) will see you at the earliest opportunity to check that you are okay and obtain more details regarding the incident.
- As soon as possible, submit all details as a report to assist in the investigation.
What steps will be taken if you are involved in a fatality while driving a train?
- You will be relieved of your duty and arrangements made to get you home.
- Your Driver Manager (DM) will contact you within 3 days to ascertain your welfare.
- Reports and witness statements will need to be completed as soon as you feel ready. (You may have to give a statement at the scene, if required by the BTP).
- Counselling service will be made available to you. (This can be used by contacting your driver management team).
- Your Driver Manager (DM) will support your return to workplace (I.e., cab ride over the area on return to work, etc.)
- Contact will continue when you return to driving to ensure your welfare
- You may have to attend coroners court to give your witness testimony.
What does CIRAS stand for and what is it?
- Confidential Incident Reporting and Analysis System
- A system which allows frontline railway staff to report safety concerns that they feel unable to report through normal company channels.
What are drivers responsible for?
- Safe working of the train
- Carrying out train preparation (where it is their responsibility)
- If a train accident or failure occurs, carrying out the duties laid down in the rule book.
- The safety of passengers on the train.
During a journey:
- Ensuring the train runs on time, as far as reasonable.
- Providing customers with service and safety information.
- Completing any reports that may be required.
- Investigating and rectifying any train faults that may occur.
- Safe passage of train and passengers.
- Observing and complying with all signals and speed restrictions.
This is not an exhaustive list.
What must be checked when preparing a train?
- Train safety systems are working correctly.
- No train components are isolated.
- All emergency equipment is present.
- General check of the overall condition of the train.
- Train is safe to enter service.
- Report any faults as per company procedure.
- No offensive graffiti.
- All vehicles are properly coupled.
- All doors are properly closed.
- The load / formation meet the relevant rules and instructions.
If a train has a ‘Not To Be Moved Board’ attached to it, what is it not permitted to do?
- Start a journey
- Be moved
- Have another vehicle make contact with it
- Have the controls interfered with.
Name a classification of train for each of the following classes.
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Class 5
- Class 9
- Class 1: Express passenger train, traction unit going to assist a failed train
- Class 2: Ordinary passenger train
- Class 3: Empty coaching stock, if specially authorised
- Class 5: Empty coaching stock
- Class 9: Other passenger train, if specially authorised
What is the headcode for a traction unit that is going to assist a failed train?
1Z99
When must a trains headlights, marker lights and tail lights be switched on or off?
Headlights must be switched on when the train is:
* moving on a running line, and the correct day/night beam must be used
Headlights must be switched off when the train is:
* in a depot, yard or siding
* stabled on a running line
Marker lights must be switched on when the train is:
* on a running line
* moving on any line or in a depot, yard or siding
* being propelled in the right direction
Tail lights must be switched on when the train is:
* on a running line
* on a through reception siding
* being propelled in the right direction
What must drivers take into consideration when stopping their train?
- Weather conditions
- Unit formation
- Unit type / braking types
- Gradients
- Railhead conditions
- Weight
- Train defects
How do you conduct a running brake test?
- Apply 25% brake force, then 50% brake force, pausing momentarily in each position.
- Check the indicated brake cylinder pressure
- Reduce train speed by at least 10mph
During snow or freezing conditions:
- Incorporate 100% / full service brake application
When should running brake applications be carried out?
- First journey in that cab
- When changing formation
- After the train has been stabled for 15 minutes or longer
- If the train has any isolated brakes
- When there is low rail adhesion
During snow or freezing conditions:
- Frequently to ensure the brakes are operating safely
Under what circumstances can a passenger train enter a siding?
- Arrangements have been published
- In an emergency and authority has been given by the local manager or signal box supervisor
- Authorised by signaller manager due to infrastructure failure
What is a fouling point?
The position on a converging, diverging or crossing line beyond which the encroachment of any part of a train would infringe the required passing clearance for a train on the other line.
Before moving a train from a depot, yard or siding, you must ensure it is safe to do so and obtain permission. Who is authorised to permit this movement?
- Signaller
- Yard controller
- Depot driver
- Shunter
What reasons could a train be held at signal at danger?
- Due to a build up of traffic
- When required to be routed from one line to another
- When shunting movements are being carried out
- During times of disruption
When a train is detained on a running line at a signal set to danger, the driver must contact the signaller as soon as possible. However, if the driver knows the reason for the delay, they may wait for up to how long before contacting the signaller?
Two minutes
What information must be shared when a driver is being relieved?
- Length of train (number of coaches)
- Any defects with the train
- Signalling equipment failures
- Degraded working
- Signaller’s instructions
- Delay information
- Any other relevant information
Under what circumstances can you leave the train, which you a responsible for, at the end of your journey, you must only?
- There is competent person to take charge of it
- It is stabled in a depot, siding or other authorised place
- It is necessary to carry out instructions (contained in the rule book) which requires you to leave the train
What warning horn tone must be sounded for each of the below circumstances?
- Anyone on or near the line
- Urgent warning to anyone dangerously close
- When passing a whistle board
- To give a warning in a depot or siding
- When making a wrong direction move
- To sound a local or special code
- High and low
- High (short and constant)
- Low (3 seconds)
- Low
- High (short blasts at frequent intervals throughout the entire movement)
- High
What is the meaning of each of the below Bell Buzzer Codes?
1.
2.
3.
4.
6.
9.
3-2-1.
3-3.
- Stop
- Ready-to-start
- Set back
- Slow down
- Draw forward
- Police assistance required
3-2-1. Testing doors
3-3. Guard required by driver
What is a platform starting signal?
A stop signal located so that one of the following applies:
- If the train (that uses the platform) is stopped at the signal, with part of the train still alongside the platform.
- If the leading end of the train has passed over the AWS magnet for that signal before being dispatched.
Before you begin the train dispatch procedure, what must you do?
- Check that the platform starting signal (if there is one) is showing a proceed aspect,
- Make sure you have the signaller’s authority to move, or
- Check that an associated OFF indicator is illuminated
What is the ‘station work complete’ or ‘train safety check complete’ signal?
- one arm or dispatch bat raised above the head during daylight
- holding a white light steadily at night or during poor visibility
- close doors (CD) indicator
Once a driver has received the ‘station work complete’ signal or ‘close doors (CD)’ indication, what can the driver do?
Close the doors (and where necessary, acknowledge the ‘close doors’ signal given by the guard)
What is the train safety check?
Checking that:
- the train doors are properly closed
- nobody is trapped in the doors (i.e., by their clothing)
- nobody is in contact with the train
- it is safe to start the train
What is the ‘ready-to-start’ signal?
- 2 on the bell/buzzer communication
- green flag waved above the head during daylight
- green light held steadily above the ahead at night or during poor visibility
- right away (RA) indicator
Once a driver has received the ‘ready-to-start’ signal or ‘right away (RA)’ indication, what must the driver do?
- Check the interlock light is illuminated before starting the train
- Start the train only if safe to do so
What is the ordinary dispatch process when dispatching a DO train from an unstaffed platform?
- Check the platform starting signal is showing a proceed aspect, make sure you have signaller’s authority to move or an associated OFF indicator is illuminated.
- Check the whole length of the train (using in-cab monitors) to make sure it is safe to close the doors.
- Close the doors.
- Make sure doors are properly closed (checking interlock light is illuminated)
- Carry out train safety check (using in-cab monitors).
- Start the train only if it is safe to do so.
On a DOO train, when dispatching at an unstaffed platform, in case of defective in-train monitors, or poor visibility, what must the driver do?
Report the defective equipment to the signaller, fleet and control and then carry out a manual dispatch, which includes;
Step 1: Visually check the entire length of the train (walking the entire length, if the train is longer than 8 cars / 160 metres) to make sure it is safe to close the doors.
Step 2: Close the doors and check interlock light is illuminated.
Step 3: Carry out final check (repeating step 1) to ensure doors are properly close and nobody is; trapped in the doors (i.e., by their clothing), in contact with the train, or stuck in the gap between train and platform.
Step 4: If the platform starting signal is cleared to proceed or the the driver has signaller’s authorisation to move, start the train only if it is safe to do so.
What is the train dispatch corridor?
- The full length of the train / platform accomodated by the train
- The gap between the train and platform
- At least the height of the train doors
- Corridor up to 1.5 metre width from the train across the platform
What details can be found within Drivers Permanent Diagrams?
- Details of the driver’s duties on that rostered turn of duty.
- An index explaining the abbreviations and symbols used
They do not include the train stopping pattern.
What tells a driver where their train is booked to call?
Driver’s Schedule Card (SHEILA)
On a Driver’s Schedule Card (SHEILA), What to do the following abbreviations mean?
- PU
- DP
- AP
- Rel.
- Reld.
- PASS.
- YOU prepare unit
- YOU detach portion
- YOU attach portion
- YOU relieve another driver
- Driver relieves YOU
- NOT booked to drive
In what ways can a driver be given a Special Stop / Not To Call order?
In written form by:
* Conductor
* Station staff
In verbal form by:
* Signaller
* Control
What are the reasons a driver might need to complete a Driver’s Report?
- Loss of door interlock
- Stop short (whether doors released or not)
- Station overrun
- Emergency brake activation not initiated by the driver (I.e., AWS late to cancel, DSD/DVD activation)
- Station incident
- Passenger alarm activation
- Any other operational incident or event that has caused delay to the train
Why should a driver submit a report after experiencing a delay?
- Helps understand the cause and details of the incident
- Makes performance data more accurate
- Enable the company to target performance improvement plans to the areas of concern
- Helps the company to make future targets realistic
- Implement procedures and systems of work to mitigate the incident from occurring again
- Allows Greater Anglia (GA) to reallocate the incident to Network Rail (NR)
- Each minute that can be reallocated to NR can save GA approximately £50
What is Track Circuit?
A railway communications system that uses electrical circuits in the running rails to detect the presence or absence of vehicles.
What is the definition of the following terms in track circuit block?
- Signal section
- Overlap
- The line between two stop signals, whether or not these are within the control of the same signal box.
- The distance beyond a stop signal up to which the line must be clear before the previous signal can show a proceed aspect.
What is permissive working?
A type of working that allows more than one train at a time to be on the same line in a block section, a signal section or a dead-end platform line.
What incidents or issues must be reported using an RT3185 form?
Signal / AWS / TPWS / ERTMS / ATP / TVM failure or irregularity.
What are the 7 sections of the RT3185 form?
- General information
- Types of failure and location
- ERTMS failure or irregularity
- Irregular signal aspect
- AWS / TPWS / TVM irregularity or failure
- Report of a TPWS activation
- Other details to be completed by the driver
What are two examples of wrong-side failures?
- Fault code 5
Required indication: Warning
Actual indication: Bell instead of horn - Fault code 7
Required indication: Warning
Actual indication: None