Emergency Protection Flashcards
What is a track circuit?
A form of an electrical circuit that is broken when a train’s wheels are on it, turning the signal to danger.
What happens to the signal when a train leaves a track circuit?
The signal changes from red to yellow.
What is the purpose of an axle counter?
Counts axles as they pass over it to ensure the train remains complete.
What equipment is included in the emergency protection procedure for drivers?
- 10 detonators
- 2 Red flags
- 2 Track circuit operating clips
What are detonators and how are they used?
Small explosives placed on the rail that create a loud sound when a driver passes over them.
How far apart should detonators be placed?
20 metres apart.
What is the minimum distance to be clear before detonators explode?
30 metres.
What is the lifespan of detonators?
5 years.
Where should detonators be placed near the 3rd rail?
On the far side. Furthest rail away from the live rail
What do track circuit operating clips do?
Operate the track circuit and maintain signals at danger for that section.
True or False: Track circuit operating clips must be used even on lines without a track circuit during emergency protection.
True.
What must be done after using track circuit operating clips?
They must be replaced.
List the hand danger signals.
- A red flag
- A red light
- Both hands in the air
- Any other light waved vigorously
What is the procedure if a train approaches before you can reach 1 ¼ miles?
Place the detonators as soon as possible and display a hand danger signal.
What must you do if you reach a telephone linked to a signal box within the protection distance?
Place three detonators on the line at the telephone or signal box before speaking.
Fill in the blank: Detonators should be placed _______ apart.
20 metres
What is the distance you must walk to lay 3 detonators for any oncoming train?
1 ¼ miles.
What should you do if the signaller confirms that signal protection is being provided?
You do not need to continue to the full protection distance.
What must you do if you reach a tunnel entrance before the full protection distance?
You must place three detonators at the tunnel entrance, then proceed through the tunnel (with a lamp) and lay 3 more detonators after exiting the tunnel if 1 and 1/4 mile distance has been reached or exceeded by that point.
What if the full protection distance is inside the tunnel?
You must continue through the tunnel to the far end and place three detonators there.
How far away should detonators be placed from the tunnel?
Detonators should be 20m away from the tunnel.
What must you do if you reach a diverging junction before the full protection distance?
You must place three detonators before you reach the junction and then decide the order of protection for each line.
What should you check for when observing a moving train for safety?
You should check for anything unsafe such as a door not properly closed, an insecure load, a vehicle on fire, a hot axle box, unlit tail lamps, a headlight not illuminated, the driver sounding the TRAIN IN DISTRESS signal, a red hand signal, or the HAZARD WARNING indication.
What should you do if you see any safety issues with a moving train?
Contact the signaller immediately.
Who is nominated to take charge when work is required on or near the line?
A COSS or SWL will be nominated to take charge of a group.
What systems may be employed to create a safe working environment?
They may employ safeguarded, fenced, separated, ATWS (Auto track warning system), LOWS (lookout operated warning system), and lookouts.
What must everyone do after the brief given by the COSS/SWL?
Everyone must sign to say they have understood the brief.
What does safeguarding a track mean?
It means stopping trains from running on it.
Stop signs may be used for this.
What is the minimum distance for rigid barriers or permanent fences to be worked behind?
They can be worked behind as long as they are 1.25m from the nearest line.
What is blue fencing made of?
It is made of plastic netting or barricade tape.
What is the speed restriction for trains when blue tape is placed at 1.25m from the track?
Trains must not be travelling at more than 40mph.
What is the distance requirement for no speed restrictions with blue fencing?
There are no speed restrictions if the fence is 2 metres away.
What is the distance requirement for work to take place if there is no fencing?
Work can only take place 2m from the nearest line or more.
What is the role of a lookout?
A lookout may be appointed to warn the group of approaching trains.
What identification does a lookout have?
They have an arm band displaying ‘lookout’ and a blue and white chequered flag.
