Interim 2

Question 1

If you observed a large animal inside the boundary fence of the railway, what should your immediate actions be as the driver of the train?

Answer 1

1. Stop the train immediately if appropriate
   2, hazard lights
   3, emergency call
   4, lay emergency protection if unable to contact the signaller

Question 2

When pressing the red railway emergency group call button on the GSM-R, What does this do? And in a logical sequence state your message.

Answer 2

Pressing the red emergency button sends a broadcast to signaller and all trains within that cell and adjoining cells with an instruction to stop immediately.

To make the call, lift the handset and use the press to talk button, releasing it when you finish each message using the term over.

1, this is an emergency call
2, confirm speaking to the controlling signaller
3, who you are and head code of train
4, your location
5, location of incident
6, nature of incident
7, lines blocked, lines potentially blocked, lines required to be blocked
8, emergency switch off
9, emergency services required
10, repeat back message - over follow signallers instructions

Say your headcode everytime you press the PTT

Question 3

When would you lay emergency protection on a line in which your train is standing?

Answer 3

1, if your train is completely derailed
2, when your train fails in an temporary block or Emergency Special Working section and you can’t contact the signaller

Question 4

Demonstrate (Draw) emergency protection including the following scenarios:

1, plain line
2, reaching a diverging junction
3, reaching a tunnel
4, a scenario where more than one line requires emergency protection. Including who could assist you in such a scenario.

Answer 4

Complete drawings and refer to module M1

Question 5

A train passes you sounding long blasts of the horn flashing its headlights, what does this mean and what would you do?

Answer 5

1, this means the train is in distress.
2, Stop and secure the train and contact the signaller with an emergency call

Question 6

Detail what actions you would take in the event of a fire on your train?

Answer 6

1, stop in a suitable location (not a viaduct, tunnel, station with a canopy)
2, switch on hazards lights
3, assess the situation
4, make an emergency call
5, emergency switch off if required.
6, Tackle fire if safe to do so
7, manage a lateral emergency evacuation of passengers as necessary.

Question 7

If you experienced rough riding when driving a train, what would you do?

Answer 7

1, stop the train immediately.
2, report location to the signaller

Question 8

Explain the parts of a dangerous goods label and how you would manage a dangerous goods emergency

Answer 8

• UN code, advice number and specialist advice code, which denotes how the dangerous good can be dealt with, e.g., contained, smothered, diluted etc,
• Make an emergency call to the signaller specifying “ This is a railway dangerous goods emergency call”.
• If necessary to evacuate your train, stay low and upwind of the dangerous goods train.

Question 9

Describe your immediate actions in the event of a train division.

Answer 9

• Stop the train immediately.
• Make an emergency call to the signaller.
• Check nobody has fallen from the train

Question 10

If a member of the media approaches you for an opinion on anything connected with the rail industry, especially after an incident, what should you tell them?

Answer 10

• Politely refuse to comment & if appropriate direct them to the GWR media officer.

Question 11

During a major incident who is in overall charge of the scene?

Answer 11

• The Rail Incident Officer (RIO). Until they arrive the driver is effectively the RIO

Question 12

Gives examples of evidence that needs to be protected until incident investigators arrive on the scene of a train incident

Answer 12

Perishable evidence such as:

• Hot axle box temps.
• Brake gauges.
• Positions of handles.
• Emergency brake plungers.
• Isolation cocks.

Question 13

In relation to train failures, describe the principles, timescales and driver actions detailed in the ‘cut and run policy’

Answer 13

• Immediately contact the controlling signaller and make a note of the time.
• No more than 2 minutes after stopping – contact maintenance control and the guard.
• Turn on your mobile phone.
• No more than 10 minutes after stopping- contact the controlling signaller and maintenance control to update them and get a decision on how to proceed. (5 mins if between Didcot and Paddington).
• Ensure the signaller is informed before any movement commences.

Question 14

When requesting for assistance from the controlling signaller for a failed train, what information must be agreed?

Answer 14

• Exact location of the failed train.
• That the failed train will not be moved
• Type of assisting train required.
• The direction from which it is required.
• Assistance protection and location you will be at.
• How long it will take you to get there

Question 15

Describe assistance protection and how/where you would wait for the assisting train for the following scenarios:

a) Plain line with assistance coming from the rear

b) For a permissive working area

c) Plain line, with assistance coming from the front on a bi-directional line, where a signal routing towards your failed train is 200m away.

d) Where the assistance protection point is in a tunnel.

Answer 15

A, 300 meters in direction of the assisting train, laying dets as appropriate.

B, no assistance protection required

C, Lay assistance protection at the signal

D, Lay assistance protection in the tunnel but then wait at the tunnel entrance.

Question 16

If you rectify a train fault after requesting assistance, what must you do before moving your train?

Answer 16

• Get permission from the controlling signaller to move train.
• Assistance protection must be picked up.

Question 17

You are the driver of an assisting train. Before moving your train to the failed train, what information must you be told by the controlling signaller? What will they need to tell you if there is a tunnel between your train and the assistance protection point?

Answer 17

• The exact location of failed train.
• How the failed train is protected.
• The point from which the assisting train will be met.
• Where the failed train will be taken to.
• Regarding the tunnel, they must ensure the driver of the assisting train is clear of the tunnel.

Question 18

Once you have successfully coupled to the failed train, what checks must be made before getting permission to move?

Answer 18

• A brake continuity test. (Referred to in the rule book as a check of the automatic brake).

Question 19

When the snow is falling, or snow is disturbed by the passage of trains what must you do when driving?

Answer 19

• Make a full service brake application every 5 minutes for a minimum of 5 seconds.

Question 20

How much above the railhead can snow build up before you must report it to the signaller (as it is likely they will have to suspend train running

Answer 20

• 200mm / 8 inches

Question 21

The GWR appendix to the rule book instructions for driving through flood water is more restrictive than the rulebook. What are those restrictions for the tractions you drive?

Answer 21

IET - no speed restrictions
HST - 50mph
150 - 20mph

Question 22

When snow is falling, what are (GWR) restrictions on train speed?

Answer 22

• Max speed 100mph.
• 10 mph below line speed.
• No reduction 50 mph or below.

Question 23

Q23. If you are told by the signaller that a track defect has occurred inside a tunnel, but it is not possible to identify the exact location, what must your maximum speed be through the tunnel and what other conditions apply?

Answer 23

• Max speed 10 mph.
• Use a competent person to assist (PTS qualified) if available.
• Headlights must be working to examine line in tunnel.

Question 24

Use a combination of the sim kit and role play (including using a single line working ticket RT3193) to describe single line working and answer the following questions:

a) Why would single line working be introduced?

b) How is a driver authorised to enter a single line working section? When wouldn’t you need a ticket

c) How would you identify the Pilotman, and will they always accompany you through the single line working section?

d) What are the exceptions to the normal method of authorisation?

e) How would you control the movement of your train through the single line working section?

f) What would you expect to see if there was a level crossing in the single line working section? Specify the rules for different types of crossing.

Answer 24

 When one line of a double line becomes blocked, and the one remaining line is not bi-directional/reversible.

b) How is a driver authorised to enter a single line working section?

 The personal authorisation of the pilotman (in person, not remotely) and a correctly completed single line working ticket – RT3193.

c) How would you identify the Pilotman, and will they always accompany you through the single line working section?

 Red armlet worn on the left arm with the word PILOTMAN in white.
 They will accompany you unless they are authorising the next train from the same direction.

d) What are the exceptions to the normal method of authorisation?

 A SLW ticket is not necessary if you are entering the single line to:
 Remove portion of a divided train.
 Evacuate passengers from a train.
 Assist a failed train.
 Remove a train that has proceeded without authority.

e) How would you control the movement of your train through the single line working section?

 Proceed at line speed if travelling in the right direction (including any advertised restrictions) unless instructed otherwise on the ticket. In the wrong direction , 50 mph maximum speed, 15 mph over points and crossings, as specified on the ticket.

f) What would you expect to see if there was a level crossing in the single line working section? Specify the rules for different types of crossing.

 A level crossing attendant displaying a RED or GREEN hand signal (Green is authority for crossing only and is not to be taken as authority for the entire section to be clear of obstruction) Any controlled level crossing which is protected by signals will have a hand signaller positioned opposite showing a RED or YELLOW flag. For a RED/GREEN crossing, approach at CAUTION, STOP to ensure the crossing is clear, sound the warning horn and proceed when safe to do so at CAUTION. For a barrow crossing, approach at CAUTION, STOP, ensure the crossing is clear, then sound horn and proceed when safe to do so at CAUTION.

Question 25

Using the sim kit, describe: a) An absolute block signalling area, with semaphore signals, including two signal boxes, Distant, Home and Section signals, the block section, and an intermediate block home signal. Explain the purpose and indications of each signal and who controls it b) What is meant by Service Braking Distance? c) What two colours can be displayed from an intermediate signal box? d) Where Station Limits are on the sim kit layout e) How shunt moves can be controlled (ask candidate to describe or draw them)

Answer 25

B,  Service Braking Distance defines how far a distant signal is placed from a home signal. It is based on the calculated distance of the traction type with the heaviest load, the least effective braking and travelling in the worst conditions. C,  Red and Yellow D,  The area between the home signal and the section signal. E,  Shunting discs as per the rule book (Explain or draw them) Shunt discs.  White discs with red stripe. (G/R light night)  White discs with yellow stripe. (Shunt neck movements)  Black discs with yellow stripe. (Shunt neck movements)

Question 26

Q26. Describe the principles of permissive working, what signals (colour light and semaphore are used and how you would proceed into a station permissively.

Answer 26

• More than one train in a signal section at one time, usually found in stations for coupling purpose or high traffic areas. • Position light signals and calling on signal descriptions. • Proceed at caution using reduced power, as appropriate to the gradient, driving at a speed where you can stop within the distance you can see the line to be clear ahead and no more than 10 mph at the platform ramp. (Maximum speed, not a target).

Question 27

Q27. Name the three methods that drivers can determine what route has been offered in semaphore signalled areas?

Answer 27

 Stepped.  Stacked.  Route Indicator (Theatre Box).

Question 28

Q28. Describe the purpose of track circuit. What effect does an ‘occupied’ track circuit have on the signal in the rear of the section?

Answer 28

A track circuit is a small electrical current passed through running rails. When a train enters the section it ‘shorts’ the circuit showing it as ‘occupied’ on the signaller’s panel. When showing as ‘occupied’ the signal in the rear will be held at danger.

Question 29

Q29. Using the sim kit, display the layout and operations of a four-aspect signal sequence, including:  Route indications (approach, control, and flashing sequences)  Braking distances.

Answer 29

REMEMBER to draw AWS magnets 183m from each signal. Service Braking Distance is from the first cautionary signal (double flashing yellow) to the stop signal

Question 30

Q31. Explain the purpose of a co-acting signal?

Answer 30

 A co- acting signal is used when a signal is poorly sighted. The co-acting signal mirrors the main aspect signal, usually located next OLE, bridges, viaducts and embankments.

Question 31

Q32. Describe and explain the purpose of a limit of shunt signal?

Answer 31

 Limit of shunt signals are used for the purpose of shunting trains on or next to the main line to prevent conflicting movements.

Question 32

Q33. How do you gain permission to pass a stop board?

Answer 32

 Comply with the instructions on the stop board. (Ask candidate to provide examples of such instructions)  From signaller, person in charge, shunter or train movement controller.

Question 33

Q34. What authority does a ground position light give you as a driver, and how far can the associated move go?

Answer 33

It gives the authority to proceed as far as the next signal/line can be seen to be clear. (This signal could be another Ground position light, main aspect, stop board or limit of shunt)

Question 34

Q35. If you bring your train to a stand at a signal showing a proceed aspect (for a station stop, for example) what must you do before restarting the movement?

Answer 34

Check that the signal is still displaying a proceed aspect.

Question 35

Q36. When would you report a signal that is becoming difficult to see?

Answer 35

At your earliest convenient location, using an RT3185 via the business portal or a paper copy.

Question 36

Q37. How would you treat a signal capable of showing a red aspect if it was imperfectly shown?

Answer 36

Treat is as being at Danger (most restrictive)

Question 37

Q38. A distant signal is imperfectly shown, how should you treat it?

Answer 37

 At caution (most restrictive)

Question 38

Q39. You have shunted beyond a signal and upon changing ends you discover that the now leading end is beyond the starting signal. How can you proceed?

Answer 38

Get permission from the signaller to either:  Change ends and shunt further so that you are clear of the signal.  Contact the signaller and ask if you can start ahead of the signal, walk back to confirm that the signal is clear.  Contact the signaller and get permission to start ahead of the signal, effectively passing the signal at danger.

Question 39

Q40. You receive an AWS horn instead of a bell approaching a green signal, what are your actions? How might have you known about this in advance?

Answer 39

 Report the irregularity to the signaller at first convenient opportunity,  Give location and signal number associated.  Fill out RT3185 with collated details via Business Forms Portal. (Code 2) • Details of the irregularity may be included on the Late Notice

Question 40

Q41. How do you know that the TPWS self-test has been successful?

Answer 40

 Observe all the lights are illuminated on the panel, then extinguish when the warning horn is acknowledged, which is followed by a bell.  Some trains will also announce “TPWS & AWS operational”.

Question 41

Q42. When are you authorised to use the TPWS train stop button and when precisely should it be pressed?

Answer 41

• When the signaller has authorised to pass a TPWS fitted signal at danger. • It should be pressed just before passing the signal and it can be pressed on the move. You have approximately 20 seconds to pass the signal having pressed it.

Question 42

Q43. Name the two occasions on which the TPWS temporary isolation switch can be used.

Answer 42

 When two or more consecutive signals are to be passed with authority at danger (TBW/ESW)  When propelling/driving from other than the leading cab on the main line, such as when assisting a failed train.

Question 43

Q44. Describe how to acknowledge TPWS brake demand for each type of traction you will sign as a qualified driver?

Answer 43

• Standard panel, press and release the AWS acknowledgement button. • MkIV panel – SPAD and OVERSPEED alarms, by pressing the flashing button for the respective alarm, missed AWS – by pressing and releasing the AWS acknowledgement button.

Question 44

Q45. According to the Rule Book how long should you wait before contacting the signaller when detained at a signal?

Answer 44

 You should contact the signaller immediately unless there is an obvious reason why the signal is at Danger, in which case you can wait for up to 2 minutes.

Question 45

Q46. Who can give authority for a wrong direction movement, and in what circumstances?

Answer 45

 The signaller for one of the reasons in the Rule Book under module TW7.  A Pilotman (acting as the signaller’s agent) during Single Line Working. 1. Wrong routed. 2. Obstruction. 3. Overrun 4. On track machine working 5. Division. 6. Can’t continue forward. 7. Assistance. 8. Ground frame. 9. Engineering train. 10. Rail grinder. 11. Single line working.

Question 46

Q47. During a wrong direction movement, what is the maximum speed and what else should you as the driver be doing/aware of?

Answer 46

 Inform guard of what is happening before the movement commences,  Proceed at caution (being prepared to stop in the distance you can see the line to be clear), except single line working as maximum speeds as shown on the ticket RT3193.  Sound the high tone of the horn before starting a series of short blasts of the high tone at frequent intervals.  Be aware of P way, crossing users not expecting to see you to come from that direction.

Question 47

Q48. When examining the line what does the term “proceed at caution” mean to you?

Answer 47

 Proceed at a speed whereby you can stop safely within the distance you can see ahead to be clear.

Question 48

Q49. When can you be accompanied in the cab whilst examining the line?

Answer 48

 In poor visibility.  During darkness.  When examining the line in a tunnel (10mph)

Question 49

Q50. You have passed a signal at danger without authority, what are your actions?

Answer 49

 Stop immediately.  Secure the train.  Contact the signaller with the appropriate method, with GSM-R this could be priority or emergency call dependent of the situation. For example, if you are in danger of a conflicting move due to the SPAD.  Follow signaller’s instructions.  Answer signaller’s questions completing form RT3189.  Do not move the train unless you have the authority of the signaller to do so.

Question 50

Q51. What type of signals may be passed at danger on the drivers’ own authority, and under what circumstances?

Answer 50

 Controlled signal (when you exhausted all communications and confirmed that the controlling signal box is closed).

Question 51

Q52. What information/instructions will the signaller give you if they authorise you to pass a signal at danger? What information about the signal are they not obliged to tell you?

Answer 51

• A valid reason for passing the signal at danger, in line with module S5 of the Rule Book. • The signal details (I.D plate) • How to proceed (caution) • How far the movement can proceed. • What is required of you when movement is complete (contact signaller again when movement complete/ obey all other signals) • It is not the signaller’s responsibility to inform the driver if the signal is fitted with TPWS.

Question 52

Q53. You experience an unsolicited brake demand, what should be the first thing that you check?

Answer 52

 The TPWS panel for a flashing brake demand indicator (or equivalent on MkIV panel)

Question 53

Q54. What are the Rule Book constraints on carrying out an emergency evacuation?

Answer 53

 It must only be carried out when it is absolutely necessary to evacuate people from a train, when life or safety is threatened.

Question 54

Q55. Using the sim kit and relevant documents (which should be in your possession), set up and describe the process used for when two or more consecutive signals need to be passed at danger due to infrastructure faults. Describe what non-technical skills strategies you would employ to mitigate the risks of the process. Candidate to demonstrate: Temporary Block Working Emergency Special Working NTS strategies

Answer 54

Temporary Block Working Description of movement.  Set up scenario on sim kit.  Demonstrate the pre-movement actions (ticket. communications, TPWS temporary isolation)  Describe authority (RT3184 and yellow handsignal) for movement and speeds.  Description of end of movement actions (comms, TPWS reinstatement). Emergency Special Working  Candidate in possession of ticket RT3184 as part of their equipment.  Demonstration of ticket and pre-movement communications.  Description of movement. NTS strategies  Assertively communicated with handsignaller, especially if you are unclear on what requirements.  Mark off signals and other features on the ticket as you come to/pass them.  Employ Risk Triggered Commentary.  Always come to a clear and mutual understanding

Question 55

Q56. Explain the meaning of the differential speed board on page 4 of the visual aids document a) What other indications might be used on differential boards on GWR routes? b) In which document can you check their meaning?

Question 56

Q57. Using the sim kit, demonstrates the layout of temporary and emergency speed restrictions. Explain … a) Layout of TSR. b) Layout of ESR. c) Explanation of Service Braking Distance d) How TSR’s and ESRs are notified e) How a blanket speed restriction may be implemented and reasons why. f) How a TSR can be terminated early. g) What will happen when a TSR lasts for longer than advertised

Answer 56

 The Service Braking Distance is the distance between the warning board and the commencement board.  TSRs notified in WON – Section A  ESRs notified via emergency reduction of speed (EROS) notice. Reproduced in Late notices. Berth triggered broadcasts (acknowledged with ST button)  Blanket speed restriction implementation: Booking On, Notices, Berth Triggered Broadcast (Acknowledged with ST button).  Blanket speed restriction implemented for: High winds, High Temperatures, OLE damage. (Acknowledged with ST button).  TSR SPATE Board. Speed Previously Advised Terminated Early.  Also used if speed restriction has not been imposed. TSR lasting longer or becoming more restrictive turns into ESR.

Question 57

Q58. How can GSM-R be turned on in non-active cab?

Answer 57

 Press and hold the register/de-register button (Top right) for a few seconds and observe GSM-R GB on home screen

Question 58

Q59. Using GSM-R app, demonstrate the following functions: a) Calling the ECO. b) Calling BTP. c) Calling the TVSC Reading West Junction signaller (assuming you are not in the area). d) Acknowledging a message from the signaller. e) Carrying out an echo test. f) How to register using a wildcard, and under what circumstances would this be acceptable?

Answer 58

a) Calling the ECO.  Menu – Option 1 – NR numbers – ECO/Signallers etc a) Calling the ECO.  Menu – Option 1 – NR numbers – ECO/Signallers etc Calling the TVSC Reading West Junction signaller (assuming you are not in the area).  Menu – Option 1 – NR numbers – ECO/Signallers etc d) Acknowledging a message from the signaller.  Press the ST button on the GSM-R. e) Carrying out an echo test.  Menu – Scroll to Echo Test. Call and leave a message. Wait to hear message back. Or  Call 1900. Leave a message. Wait to hear message back f) How to register using a wildcard, and under what circumstances would this be acceptable?  Wildcard only acceptable with express permission from the signaller. Not to be used on a driver’s whim, as it may cause the GSM-R to call the wrong workstation, or conversely not enable the correct signaller to contact the driver. REMEMBER – Short dial codes: 1200 – Signaller / 1300 - Operations Control / 1400 - ECO

Question 59

Q60. If you isolate AWS what are the speed restrictions whilst proceeding?

Answer 59

 With competent person in cab – line speed.  Without competent person in cab – 60 mph.  With or without competent person in cab – poor visibility 40 mph.

Question 60

Q61. What would you ask for if someone was in danger from being too close to overhead line equipment?

Answer 60

 Make an emergency call to the ECO via the signaller if necessary, requesting an Emergency Switch off.

Question 61

When an ESR/TSR is removed, how will this be identified?

Answer 61

Using SPATE boards on, warning and commencement boards(anything with a physical speed on it)

Question 62

When would a TSR change to an ESR?

Answer 62

1, longer than originally advertised 2, change in posted speed 3, Removed and Reinstated 4, Location Different.

Question 63

Where would you find the following posted- TSR ESR

Answer 63

1, TSR in section A of the WON 2, late notices

Question 64

What speed is a wrong direction move conducted at?

Answer 64

Caution

Question 65

Why would single line working be introduced?

Answer 65

When one line is blocked, and the other is not a bi-directional or reversible line

Question 66

During SLW what would you expect to find at all crossings, and how would you proceed.

Answer 66

At all crossings you would expect to see a crossing attendant, who can display either a green or red flag. A red and green crossing/barrow crossing, will have no attendant - stop ensure crossing clear, sound horn and then proceed

Question 67

How would you acknowledged a TPWS brake demand and reset/release brakes

Answer 67

Press overspeed button to acknowledge, press train fault acknowledge button After 60 seconds, Press overspeed and brake release button simultaneously

Question 68

When assisting a failed train, what is the maximum speed

Answer 68

25 mph