Interim 3

Question 1

Q1. Draw and fully label a diagram of an absolute block signalling system with two signal boxes. Identify signals for both including intermediate section and any related track equipment. Show which signals are controlled by which box.

Question 2

Q2, What is service braking distance?

Answer 2

▪ To enable the driver of a train enough distance between the first cautionary signal and its associated stop signal to stop using normal braking and come to a stand before the red.

Question 3

Q3. What is permissive working, how would you be signalled into a platform under permissive working in both absolute block and coloured light Signalling?

Answer 3

● 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 4

Q4. State two additional risks which need to be mitigated when being permissively worked into a platform.

Answer 4

▪ Another train in the section.
Expect the line to be occupied,
be prepared to stop short of any obstruction.

Question 5

Q5. What are the GWR regulations for permissive movements into platforms?

Answer 5

▪ 10 mph at the ramp.

Question 6

Q6. What is meant by the instruction to proceed at caution?

Answer 6

▪ Proceed as far as you can see the line to be clear and be prepared to stop short of any obstruction.

Question 7

Q7. Why is a banner repeater provided on the approach to some main aspects?

Answer 7

▪ When the view of the main aspect is obscured and there is not enough required sighting distance.

Question 8

Q8. What is a repeater signal and how can it be identified?

Answer 8

▪ A repeater signal is such that cannot display a red aspect but relates to one that can. It is identified by the prefix ‘R’ or ‘RR’ (if more than one exists) before the associated red.

Question 9

Q9. Draw a four aspect signaller sequence.

Answer 9

▪ Green, Double Yellow, Single Yellow, Red.

Question 10

Q10. Draw a main aspect signal head with a full array of junction indicators and illustrate which routes they can apply.

Question 11

Q11. If a signal is required to display more routes than are available on the junction indicator, how will this be achieved?

Answer 11

▪ Through use of a Theatre Box/Route Indicator.

Question 12

Q12. Draw the most restrictive sequence for 4 aspect Signalling equipped with flashing yellows for signalling across a junction.

Answer 12

▪ Reference – RSSB RS521 Para 2.5 – Four Aspect Flashing Yellow Signalling.

Question 13

Q13. You are passing through a station, and you observe an activated SPAD indicator, what are your actions?

Answer 13

▪ STOP Immediately using emergency stop.
▪ Contact Signaller.
▪ Do not move until authorised.

Question 14

Q14. Draw a yellow ground position disc and a yellow ground position signal in the on and off position and explain their indications.

Answer 14

▪ White or black shunting disc with a horizontal yellow line or A white and a yellow light or two yellow lights horizontally apposed means the signal is in the ON position.
▪ The disc at 45 degrees indicates OFF. Coloured light indication for OFF is two white lights, diagonally opposed.
▪ This signal can be passed while in the ON position as long as the points to which the signal relates take a movement toward a shunt neck.
▪ If a movement needs to be taken onto a running line, the signal needs to be OFF.

Question 15

Q15. You observe both lights out on a limit of shunt indicator applicable to your move, when must you stop and report to the signaller and then must you then do?

Answer 15

▪ Stop immediately.
▪ Contact signaller immediately..
▪ Complete form RT3185

Question 16

Q16. You observe a main aspect signal on another line improperly shown when must you stop and report to the signaller and what must you then do?

Answer 16

▪ Stop immediately.
▪ Contact signaller (priority call).
▪ Complete RT3185 form.

Question 17

Q17. What is the definition of a bi-directional line?

Answer 17

▪ A line signalled in both directions with no priority over direction used in multi-track layout.

Question 18

Q18. What is the definition of a reversible line?

Answer 18

▪ A line signalled in both directions but are not normally used for bi-directional working.

Question 19

Q19. Regarding token working, in what two ways can you check you are in possession of the correct token?

Answer 19

▪ Section of route to which it relates is stamped on it.
▪ Colour coded.

Question 20

Q20. What is your authority to enter a single line worked by token?

Answer 20

▪ Clearance of the signal.
▪ Possession of the correct token.

Question 21

Q21. Under what circumstances may a driver enter a single line without possession of the token?

Answer 21

▪ Pilotman working.
▪ Assisting a train.
▪ Line under possession.
▪ Modified working arrangements
▪ Shunting past the sectional signal (electric token working only)

Question 22

Q22. What are the rules for receipt, conveyance, and delivery of tokens

Answer 22

▪ Stop the train.
▪ Receipt of correct token.
▪ Keep it in the leading cab.
▪ Surrender the token at the end of the single line working.

Question 23

Q23. If there was more than one loco on the train, what additional instructions must are there in regard to the token?

Answer 23

▪ Show the token to the driver of any other loco, then retain it in the leading cab.

Question 24

Q24. Why would Pilotman working be introduced on single lines?

Answer 24

▪ Token has been lost.
▪ Obstruction – To and from the point of..
▪ Signal cannot be cleared.
▪ Disconnected or failed signal.
▪ Equipment failure (EG. Track circuit failure).
▪ Level crossing equipment failure.
▪ Token machine has failed.

Question 25

Q25. What does OTDR stand for and what is the purpose of this equipment, give three examples of things that it records.

Answer 25

▪ On Train Data Recorder. ▪ Provides unobtrusive monitoring to check driver standards and assist in an investigation. ▪ AWS. ▪ TPWS. ▪ Distance ▪ Power control position. ▪ Speeds. ▪ Brake positions. ▪ Throttle positions. ▪ WSP ▪ Time. ▪ DRA.

Question 26

Q26. What does DSD stand for? Describe the purpose of the equipment and what it does.

Answer 26

▪ Driver Safety Device. ▪ Needs to be reset after a period of time (60 seconds) and triggers an emergency brake application if no reset is made. ▪ On some traction types, resetting is automatic if certain conditions are sensed such as: Horn, throttle, brake etc

Question 27

Q27. What is the purpose of the vigilance? How often does it activate? How do you reset it?

Answer 27

▪ Vigilance indicates when a DSD requires resetting. It emits a beeping sound. ▪ Activates every 60 seconds. ▪ Reset my lifting feet off pedal, then pressing down again.

Question 28

Q28. What is the purpose of TPWS overspeed sensors and train stop sensors?

Answer 28

▪ Triggers an emergency brake application if it senses too fast an approach to a red aspect, buffer stop, speed restriction, AWS is not reset, or signal passed at danger. ▪ A pair of grids is positioned on the approach to a signal with a gap between them. The first grid is the ‘arming loop’ and the second is the ‘trigger loop’. These are the overspeed sensors. ▪ Another pair of grids are positioned at the signal with no gap between them. These are the ‘train stop’ sensors.

Question 29

Q29. Where will you find TPWS sensors?

Answer 29

▪ On the approach to some signals which could be deemed to be in high risk areas. For example – Protecting junctions. ▪ On approach to buffer stops. ▪ Areas of permissive working.

Question 30

Q30. What are the driver’s actions about TPWS? (as in initiated a brake demand?

Answer 30

▪ On a running line, when the train has come to a complete stop, ▪ Secure the train. ▪ Contact signaller. ▪ Complete RT3188. ▪ When you have signaller’s permission, you can reset TPWS and recommence your journey.

Question 31

Q31. Relating to the previous answer, how does this process change when a driver has a TPWS brake demand on approach to buffer stops.

Answer 31

▪ On approach to a buffer stop, give guard 2-2, not to release the doors, wait for TPWS to timeout, then reset and go yourself. ▪ When at the correct position in platform, inform signaller. ▪ Complete from RT3188.

Question 32

Q32. Give three examples of where you will find AWS magnets and state their purpose and within how long must an AWS caution be acknowledged and what will happen if it is missed?

Answer 32

▪ On approach to certain signals. ▪ Emergency and Temporary speed restrictions. ▪ On approach to certain PSR’s (something about percentage and min speed????) ▪ AOCL’s ▪ Provide the driver with an advance visual and audible warning to observe signals or signage. ▪ Within 2-3 seconds. ▪ The AWS works alongside the TPWS and ensures the driver is alert. If the driver fails to reset when required, it applies the emergency brakes.

Question 33

Q33. What are the permitted maximum speeds if AWS, TPWS is fully isolated?

Answer 33

▪ Linespeed, if accompanied by a competent person. ▪ 60 mph if on your own. ▪ 40 mph in bad weather, regardless of having a competent person.

Question 34

Q34. What two purposes does the DRA have?

Answer 34

▪ Stops you taking power. ▪ Visual reminder of a possible signal at danger ahead.

Question 35

Q35. List the situations where DRA must used.

Answer 35

▪ When stopped at a station where the starting signal is at danger. ▪ When leaving the cab for any reason. ▪ Entering a platform on authority of a shunting disc, subsidiary or GPS. ▪ You set the DRA when you are handing over to another driver. ▪ If the previous signal before the station was a single yellow and there is no starting signal. ▪ If the signal ahead is red or you are stood at a stop board. ▪ When stopped after passing a signal at danger.

Question 36

Q36. List 12 items of on-train equipment, relevant to your traction that must be reported immediately if defective.

Answer 36

▪ Air Suspension ▪ AWS ▪ TPWS ▪ ATP ▪ Axle boxes ▪ Dragging Brakes ▪ Doors ▪ Fire detection ▪ Head/Tail lights. ▪ DVD ▪ Life Guards ▪ Speedo ▪ TIS ▪ Complete horn failure ▪ DSD ▪ DVD ▪ Cab window defective ▪ TCA ▪ Sanding – If you believe you will have difficulty stopping ▪ SDO if you believe it is due to lineside equipment ▪ GSMR ?

Question 37

Q37. With regards to your answers given in the previous question, after stopping immediately and reporting to the signaller, what else must you do?(on train equipment-reportable immediately)

Answer 37

▪ Contact maintenance control. ▪ Fill in repair book, except on Class 80x

Question 38

Q38. XXX the cut and run policy. (25 mins)

Answer 38

▪ 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 39

Q39. What does TCA stand for and what is the purpose of this equipment?

Answer 39

▪ Track Circuit Actuator. ▪ Amplifies the presence of a train to assist in track detection through an ariel fixed under the train

Question 40

Q40. When can you continue normally with a defective or isolated TCA? (This is correct for Q40)

Answer 40

▪ Once the signaller has bee informed if the isolated TCA is on the first or last vehicle. ▪ You may access SMS – 1640 -10 ▪ Refer to DOTE Matrix – Defective On Train Equipment ▪ Dependent on area of operation – Axle Counter areas do not require TCAs

Question 41

Q41. If you cannot continue normally with a defective or isolated TCA, what instructions might you receive regarding automatic level crossings, barrow crossings and some foot crossings?

Answer 41

▪ Approach at caution. ▪ Do not cross unless it’s safe to do so. ▪ Sound horn continuously until on the crossing.

Question 42

Q42. Who must you advice if an external orange hazzard light remains on, during the running of the train?

Answer 42

▪ The Signaller

Question 43

Q43. What are the applicable speeds for a defective headlight?

Answer 43

▪ Switch to another headlight – Linespeed. ▪ If portable headlight fitted – 75 mph. ▪ Total failure – 20 mph – Sound horn frequently to warn anyone of your presence.

Question 44

Q44. Why do we reduce speeds in these circumstances?(light failures)

Answer 44

▪ Restrictions are in place due to reduced visibility.

Question 45

Q45. What are you actions if you have complete failure of taillights on your train? What must you not do?

Answer 45

▪ Stop train – Do not move. ▪ Inform signaller. ▪ Arrange for a hand lamp showing a red aspect to be fitted on the rear of the train.

Question 46

Q46. If hot axle box has been activated what sequences of events will occur?

Answer 46

▪ Signaller brings train to a stand. ▪ Informs driver what axle activated the detector and which side the axle box is on. ▪ Driver examines axle box. ▪ Driver reports back to signaller.

Question 47

Q47. If you cannot examine a hot axle box within 10 minutes, what speed must you proceed at?

Answer 47

▪ 20 mph

Question 48

Q48. If no evidence of overheating was found, your second hot axle box detector is activated, then if authorised to proceed, what would you maximum speed be?

Answer 48

▪ 20 mph

Question 49

Q49. If there is evidence of a hot axle box and there is doubt over the movement being made safely, who must approve the movement and what maximum speeds must be observed?

Answer 49

▪ 10 mph & 5 mph over points ▪ Rolling Stock Technician.

Question 50

Q50. Can a train enter service with a missing lifeguard?

Answer 50

No

Question 51

Q51. What are the instructions if a speedometer fails in service?

Answer 51

▪ Stop train. ▪ Report immediately to the signaller. ▪ Control the train at a speed you know will not breach any speed limits. ▪ Complete the repair book.

Question 52

Q52. What are the risks of starting a train with a ‘not to be removed’ board attached?

Answer 52

▪ Death or injury to persons working on or near the train. ▪ Damage to rolling stock or infrastructure. ▪ Derailment. ▪ Collision.

Question 53

Q53. What dangers are posed by wheel flats and how might you become aware of one, and how might you respond?

Answer 53

▪ damage to infrastructure. ▪︎ derailment ▪︎ rough riding / unusual noise ▪︎ stop train, report to signaller, inspect. ▪︎ if flat between 60-100mm proceed at 20 mph with authority ▪︎ if flat above 100mm, do not move until inspected by Rolling stock technician and authorised by signaller.

Question 54

Q54. What are the instructions if there was a partial failure of the warning horn?

Answer 54

▪ Inform control at first opportunity. ▪ Carry out instructions given 255 - no speed restriction

Question 55

Q55. What are you actions if there is a complete failure of the warning horn?

Answer 55

▪ Stop and inform signaller immediately. ▪ Do not move train until authorised. ▪ Do not exceed 20 mph.

Question 56

Q56. When driving the train you observe some track workers on the line, what are your actions? Upon completing these actions above, the group failed to move, what must you do?

Answer 56

▪ Sound your horn using hi/low tone, observe the response. ▪ Repeat the warning above. ▪ If no response, urgent short blasts. ▪ If no response, apply emergency brake. ▪ Report to the signaller immediately.

Question 57

Q57. The rules book states 17 valid reasons why the signaller might authorise you past a signal at danger? (only need to be able to list 5) (42 mins)

Answer 57

▪ Signal faulty or disconnected. ▪ Signal cannot be cleared due to level crossing equipment failure. ▪ ERMTS equipment is defective or disconnected. ▪ Reverse movement starting beyond signal. ▪ Shunting movement when there is no associated position light or semaphore shunting signal. ▪ Electric train to pass isolated sub section and proceed to limiting point. ▪ Section signal cannot be cleared due to obstruction at next home signal. ▪ Ops Control or Signalling Supervisor’s authority in an emergency – Access to platform. ▪ Engineering train to enter/exit a possession. ▪ Line under T3 protection (possession): - Access to Station, Siding, Single Line Working. ▪ Engineering train to move towards a protection zone. (Protection Zone is a way of taking over a section of track without a possession order or line block). ▪ Proceed from signal box after failed train has been removed or front portion of a divided train passed through section. ▪ Pass signal to: Remove a portion of a divided train – Evacuate from failure – Assist failure – Remove a train that has proceeded without authority. ▪ Examine the line. ▪ Enter a section after as train without authority has been removed or front portion of a divided train has been removed. ▪ Single Line Working (SLW). ▪ Working by pilotman or modified working applies.

Question 58

Q58. Who can authorise a driver to pass a signal at danger?

Answer 58

▪ Signaller. ▪ Pilotman. ▪ Driver when certain conditions apply. ▪ Any other person were authorised in the rules. ▪ When working under instruction from the Signaller, Pilotman, Shunter.

Question 59

Q59. You have been authorised to pass a signal at danger, what is it important not to forget to do before proceeding, pending on the location when proceeding through the section, what restrictions and instructions must you abide by?

Answer 59

▪ Operate the TPWS train stop override button. ▪ Drive at caution - Proceed at a reduced speed at which you can stop at a distance that can be seen to be clear ▪ Follow instructions regarding level crossings, understanding they may not operate normally. ▪ 15 mph over points and crossings. ▪ Follow instructions regarding limit of authority for the movement.

Question 60

Q60. What signals can a driver pass at danger on their own authority and in what circumstances?

Answer 60

▪ Pass a controlled from a signal box that you know to be closed.

Question 61

Q61. What precautions must be made through the section after passing the signal at danger on your own authority?

Answer 61

▪ Proceed at caution for as far as you can see the line to be clear, being prepared to stop short of any obstructions. ▪ Max 50 mph, 15 mph over points and crossings. ▪ Do not enter a tunnel unless you know it is clear at no more than 10 mph. ▪ Stop at the next signal and report your actions to the signaller.