Starting Trains

Question 1

What does the acronym PTI mean?

Answer 1

Passenger train interface

Question 2

What hand signals or indications can be given to tell train crew that station work is complete?

Answer 2

Showing of batton (white only)
White light
Whistle
CD indication

Question 3

What is the bell/buzzer code for close power operated doors ?

Answer 3

1 - 2
*Don’t forget to repeat back.

Question 4

What is the bell/buzzer code for Ready to Start?

Answer 4

2
Repeat back

Question 5

How can a ready to start signal be given to a DOO or ECS train?

Answer 5

R A indication
Platform staff displaying a green light/flag

Question 6

If the bell/buzzer is defective, how would you arrange a safe system of work with the guard and what signals would you use in day light and darkness?

Answer 6

Discuss with guard -
Come to clear understanding
(Agree verbal contract)

Green flag day
Green light night

Question 7

Can a standard dispatch baton be used to give the ready to start signal to a driver?

Answer 7

No.
Only green flag or light

Question 8

What do the following terms mean
SOY-SPAD
SAS-SPAD

Answer 8

SOY-SPAD
Starting on yellow - drive at caution, next signal Red.

SAS-SPAD
Start against signal - moved your train against a red signal - passing the signal

Question 9

How does the DRA prevent SPADs?

Answer 9

A device in a driving cab that allows the driver to set a reminder that the signal ahead is at danger. When the DRA is set, the driver cannot take power.

Question 10

The rule book specifies when the DRA must’ve set/reset. What risks arises if drivers set/reset the DRA outside of these parameters?

Answer 10

The driver will become complacent and setting the DRA will become irrelevant. Driver will forget reasons due to overuse and risk causing a SPAD etc.

Question 11

What must you do, when you stop at a station where there is no starting signal, having passed the previous signal displaying a single yellow?

Answer 11

Set the DRA
When you receive the ready to start (2 on bell)
Question why DRA is set
Proceed at caution towards next signal (expect it to be red)

Question 12

When departing a platform where the starting signal is displaying a single yellow aspect l, how would you control the train to reduce the risk of a SOY-SPAD?

Answer 12

Reset DRA
MAX notch 5 on power handle
Be prepared to stop short of any obstruction, train, vehicle or next signal.