Module S1, S2, S3

Question 1

Briefly describe the principle of absolute block signalling?

Answer 1

One train in one block section at one time, This is achieved by signals, bells, block instruments between two signal boxes.

Question 2

Describe the principle of track circuit block Signalling?

Answer 2

One train in one signal section at any one time, this is achieved by signals and track circuits.

Question 3

Describe the principle of permissive block signalling?

Answer 3

More than one train in the one section at any one time.

Question 4

How would you define a colour light distant signal?

Answer 4

A signal not capable of displaying a red aspect and may be identified by the suffix R or RR or a black plate with a white arrow pointing upward.

Question 5

How would you identify a controlled signal and how are they operated?

Answer 5

Controlled signals are identified by a black signal post plate with white text. Operated by the signal box.

Question 6

How would you identify an automatic signal and how are they operated?

Answer 6

Identified by a black signal post plate with a white plate above with a horizontal black line. These signals are operated by the passage of trains.

Question 7

How would you identify a semi automatic signal, and how are they operated?

Answer 7

A white signal post plate with a horizontal black line and the word SEMI above the back line. Either operated by the passage of trains or via the signal box.

Question 8

What is the meaning of a signal displaying two flashing yellow lights?

Answer 8

The facing points ahead are set for a diverging route where the set route has a lower speed of that of the straight route.

Question 9

What is the meaning of a position light not associated with a main aspect when it is displaying two white lights at 45 degrees?

Answer 9

Proceed at caution preparing to stop short of any other signal, train, obstruction or buffer stop.

Question 10

How are junction indicators numbered?

Answer 10

1-2-3 top to bottom left side, 4-5-6 right side.

Question 11

What number route indication would be required if you were taking the second route to the right of the main line?

Answer 11

junction indicator No.5.

Question 12

How would you identify a colour light signal no longer in use?

Answer 12

The signal would be bagged with a X on it.

Question 13

What is the meaning of a position light displaying one white light and one yellow light horizontally?

Answer 13

Movements travelling in the direction to which the signal can be cleared must STOP, other movements are permitted to pass the signal without it being cleared.

Question 14

What must a driver understand when they pass a fixed distant board, or a semaphore distant signal in the horizontal position?

Answer 14

Be prepared to stop at the next home signal or other specified place to which the signal applies to.

Question 15

What is the normal indication of a position light signal associated with a main aspect?

Answer 15

No aspect shown, unlit.

Question 16

What is the meaning and what different types of limit of shunt boards are there?

Answer 16

The meaning is STOP, make sure that no part of the train passes the board unless authorised by the signaller. An illuminated sign displaying “limited of shunt” or “Shunt limit” or two red lights displaying horizontally.

Question 17

What actions would you undertake if wrong routed?

Answer 17

Stop the train if possible, contact the signaller.

Question 18

On what occasions is the drivers reminder appliance to be used?

Answer 18

The DRA must be used under the five occasions,

Stopped at a red signal

when handing over or leaving the driving cab

Passing a single yellow aspect and stopping at a station with no platform signal

After departing on a position light and stopping at a station with no platform signal

Passed a signal at danger and stopped at a station with no platform signal.

Question 19

What must you do if you accidentally pass a signal at danger?

Answer 19

Bring the train to a stand and tell the signaller immediately. answer questions the signaller has to ask, do not move until the signaller gives you the authority to move.

Question 20

If you become aware of a failure or irregularity in the working of signals, what must you do?

Answer 20

You must inform the signaller, stopping your train specially to do so if necessary.

Question 21

Once you have reported a signal irregularity or failure, what must be done before booking off for duty?

Answer 21

Complete and submit RT 3185 report form.

Question 22

What action would you take if in your opinion a signal was becoming difficult to see because of foliage?

Answer 22

Report to the signaller at the first opportunity and complete a RT3185 report form.

Question 23

What is the purpose of a banner repeater?

Answer 23

Provides advance information to which the signal it relates to either due to the curvature of the line or buildings blocking the direct line of sight to that signal.

Question 24

Describe a SPAD indicator and the action you would take if you observed one activated?

Answer 24

Signal head is blue, with three red lights that flash, 50 meters beyond the signal to which it applies to. if observed flashing stop immediately even if you see it on another line that does not concern you.

Question 25

What is the principle of TPWS and where is it fitted?

Answer 25

The principle of TPWS is to mitigate the consequences of a SPAD by stopping trains which have passed a signal at danger, approach signals at danger to fast. The sectional appendix list details on where it is fitted, but mainly found at junctions, buffer ends, high risk areas with train movements.

Question 26

What action must you take if an automatic brake application is initiated by the operation of the TPWS?

Answer 26

Acknowledge the TPWS brake demand once at a stand insure the brake controller is in a braking position. Report to the signaller immediately and act in accordance with the instructions given, make no further movements until instructed to do so.

Question 27

When can the TPWS be temporary isolated?

Answer 27

Where authorised in the rules and regulations, for example:

TBW
ESW
Propelling
T3 possession

Question 28

When can the Train Stop Override be used?

Answer 28

When authorised by a signaller to pass one of their signals at danger.