Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the minimum clear distance required when taking off a Home signal according to the specified rules?
What is the minimum clear distance required when taking off a Home signal according to the specified rules?
Under what condition can a Last Stop signal be taken off for a train?
Under what condition can a Last Stop signal be taken off for a train?
If the Home signal is defective, which action should the Station Master take?
If the Home signal is defective, which action should the Station Master take?
What substitute may be used in place of the adequate distance for a Home signal?
What substitute may be used in place of the adequate distance for a Home signal?
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What should happen when the Last Stop signal is defective?
What should happen when the Last Stop signal is defective?
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Which component is NOT considered as an additional fixed signal in Automatic Block territory?
Which component is NOT considered as an additional fixed signal in Automatic Block territory?
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What is the role of a Station Master when dealing with defective signals?
What is the role of a Station Master when dealing with defective signals?
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Which of the following distances is NOT mentioned as adequate for a Last Stop signal?
Which of the following distances is NOT mentioned as adequate for a Last Stop signal?
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What must the Station Master do before authorizing any shunting into the block section?
What must the Station Master do before authorizing any shunting into the block section?
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What does the Station Master need to cancel after ensuring the complete arrival of the train?
What does the Station Master need to cancel after ensuring the complete arrival of the train?
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What is the role of the Guard or competent railway servant during shunting operations?
What is the role of the Guard or competent railway servant during shunting operations?
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When is shunting within the station section generally permitted?
When is shunting within the station section generally permitted?
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What is the purpose of the Authority T/806 in the shunting process?
What is the purpose of the Authority T/806 in the shunting process?
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What is required before the resumption of normal working after a track obstruction?
What is required before the resumption of normal working after a track obstruction?
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What should be used to notify other stations after receiving clearance for normal working?
What should be used to notify other stations after receiving clearance for normal working?
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How should all entries regarding train working be recorded during operation?
How should all entries regarding train working be recorded during operation?
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Who is responsible for scrutinizing records related to temporary single line working?
Who is responsible for scrutinizing records related to temporary single line working?
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What is the minimum rank of the Engineering official required to certify that the unobstructed line is safe for passage?
What is the minimum rank of the Engineering official required to certify that the unobstructed line is safe for passage?
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In the event of failing signals and communication, how is the direction of traffic established?
In the event of failing signals and communication, how is the direction of traffic established?
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Which option represents the correct sequence of actions during single line working after track obstruction?
Which option represents the correct sequence of actions during single line working after track obstruction?
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What must be done within seven days of resuming normal working?
What must be done within seven days of resuming normal working?
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What is the primary purpose of introducing temporary single line working immediately after an obstruction?
What is the primary purpose of introducing temporary single line working immediately after an obstruction?
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What type of records must be retained at the station regarding temporary single line working?
What type of records must be retained at the station regarding temporary single line working?
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What is the first piece of information a Station Master must provide to the other end when introducing temporary single line working?
What is the first piece of information a Station Master must provide to the other end when introducing temporary single line working?
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What must be assured by the two Station Masters before requesting line clear for the first train running in the wrong direction?
What must be assured by the two Station Masters before requesting line clear for the first train running in the wrong direction?
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Which of the following is NOT a means of communication to obtain Line Clear?
Which of the following is NOT a means of communication to obtain Line Clear?
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What document must be provided to the Loco Pilot for the first train running in the wrong direction?
What document must be provided to the Loco Pilot for the first train running in the wrong direction?
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What should the Station Master ensure regarding level crossings before giving authority to the Loco Pilot?
What should the Station Master ensure regarding level crossings before giving authority to the Loco Pilot?
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Which of the following must be reported to the Station Master at the other end when introducing single line working?
Which of the following must be reported to the Station Master at the other end when introducing single line working?
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What happens when a Station Master proposes temporary single line working?
What happens when a Station Master proposes temporary single line working?
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What is NOT required to be included in the message sent to the other Station Master?
What is NOT required to be included in the message sent to the other Station Master?
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Which option describes the recommended order of priority for obtaining Line Clear?
Which option describes the recommended order of priority for obtaining Line Clear?
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Which of the following statements is true regarding the temporary single line working process?
Which of the following statements is true regarding the temporary single line working process?
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What must accompany the motor trolley when it is used for opening communications?
What must accompany the motor trolley when it is used for opening communications?
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What does the 'Authority for opening communication during total interruption of communication' NOT include?
What does the 'Authority for opening communication during total interruption of communication' NOT include?
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What is the maximum speed allowed over straight sections with a clear view according to the Caution Order?
What is the maximum speed allowed over straight sections with a clear view according to the Caution Order?
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Which condition applies when approaching or passing portions of the line with an obstructed view?
Which condition applies when approaching or passing portions of the line with an obstructed view?
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What type of message must be sent to request Line Clear for a train waiting to be dispatched?
What type of message must be sent to request Line Clear for a train waiting to be dispatched?
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What does a conditional line clear message allow the Station Master to do?
What does a conditional line clear message allow the Station Master to do?
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What must the Authority T/A.912 authorize the Loco Pilot/Motorman to do?
What must the Authority T/A.912 authorize the Loco Pilot/Motorman to do?
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Which of the following types of signals must the Loco Pilot observe rules for passing if authorized?
Which of the following types of signals must the Loco Pilot observe rules for passing if authorized?
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What is the speed restriction over facing points according to the given authority?
What is the speed restriction over facing points according to the given authority?
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What information must be included in the Caution Order regarding line operations?
What information must be included in the Caution Order regarding line operations?
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What document is given to the Loco Pilot as authority to proceed with the Light engine or train engine returning?
What document is given to the Loco Pilot as authority to proceed with the Light engine or train engine returning?
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When trains are in the wrong direction, how are they authorized to start from the despatching station?
When trains are in the wrong direction, how are they authorized to start from the despatching station?
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What critical information must be included in a Caution Order?
What critical information must be included in a Caution Order?
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What must the Station Master send to the block station in rear when awaiting a response for a waiting train?
What must the Station Master send to the block station in rear when awaiting a response for a waiting train?
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What should the Loco Pilot do if all points are set and locked for the wrong line operations?
What should the Loco Pilot do if all points are set and locked for the wrong line operations?
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What is the maximum speed allowed for a Loco Pilot when visibility is impaired?
What is the maximum speed allowed for a Loco Pilot when visibility is impaired?
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What action must a Loco Pilot take when encountering an Automatic Stop signal with an 'A' marker at 'on'?
What action must a Loco Pilot take when encountering an Automatic Stop signal with an 'A' marker at 'on'?
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How often must competency certificates for Guards and Loco Inspectors be renewed?
How often must competency certificates for Guards and Loco Inspectors be renewed?
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Which of the following includes a requirement for issuing competency certificates?
Which of the following includes a requirement for issuing competency certificates?
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What responsibility does the Guard have when the train stops at an Automatic Stop signal?
What responsibility does the Guard have when the train stops at an Automatic Stop signal?
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Under what conditions can a Loco Pilot seek assistance from the Guard?
Under what conditions can a Loco Pilot seek assistance from the Guard?
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Which of the following statements about Modified Semi-Automatic Stop signals is accurate?
Which of the following statements about Modified Semi-Automatic Stop signals is accurate?
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What must be maintained by the DOM, DME, and DEE regarding competency certificates?
What must be maintained by the DOM, DME, and DEE regarding competency certificates?
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What is the minimum distance a loco pilot must maintain after passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'on' for trains other than EMU?
What is the minimum distance a loco pilot must maintain after passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'on' for trains other than EMU?
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In which situation can the distance requirement after passing an Automatic Stop signal be reduced to 75 metres?
In which situation can the distance requirement after passing an Automatic Stop signal be reduced to 75 metres?
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What should a loco pilot do during special circumstances like floods or dense fog after passing an Automatic Stop signal?
What should a loco pilot do during special circumstances like floods or dense fog after passing an Automatic Stop signal?
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What action should the guard of a train take when it has halted and requires a relief engine?
What action should the guard of a train take when it has halted and requires a relief engine?
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How fast should a loco pilot proceed when observing conditions that necessitate maintaining a reasonable distance behind another train after an automatic stop signal?
How fast should a loco pilot proceed when observing conditions that necessitate maintaining a reasonable distance behind another train after an automatic stop signal?
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What is the adequate distance a loco pilot must keep in normal operations after passing an Automatic Stop signal, if the train is not an EMU?
What is the adequate distance a loco pilot must keep in normal operations after passing an Automatic Stop signal, if the train is not an EMU?
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What additional responsibility does a guard have when his train is halted, apart from ensuring its safety?
What additional responsibility does a guard have when his train is halted, apart from ensuring its safety?
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What is the main reason for adjusting the required distance between trains in special weather conditions?
What is the main reason for adjusting the required distance between trains in special weather conditions?
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What constitutes an obstruction that loco pilots should be cautious of while proceeding after passing an automatic stop signal?
What constitutes an obstruction that loco pilots should be cautious of while proceeding after passing an automatic stop signal?
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What must a loco pilot control to adequately stop short of a train or obstruction when moving at a slow speed?
What must a loco pilot control to adequately stop short of a train or obstruction when moving at a slow speed?
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What is the primary action the Loco Pilot must take upon approaching the station ahead in the event of a signal failure?
What is the primary action the Loco Pilot must take upon approaching the station ahead in the event of a signal failure?
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What must be done to all points within the affected area before any train is allowed to enter the interrupted section?
What must be done to all points within the affected area before any train is allowed to enter the interrupted section?
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What should the Station Master do when all communication means have failed?
What should the Station Master do when all communication means have failed?
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How should records related to train operations in the affected section be maintained?
How should records related to train operations in the affected section be maintained?
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How should the SCOR be informed about the resumption of normal train operations?
How should the SCOR be informed about the resumption of normal train operations?
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What timeframe is given for the Traffic Inspector to scrutinize records after normal working resumes?
What timeframe is given for the Traffic Inspector to scrutinize records after normal working resumes?
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In the case of signal failure, what is the role of the Guard or Motorman prior to entering an affected section?
In the case of signal failure, what is the role of the Guard or Motorman prior to entering an affected section?
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What action is taken once the signals are restored after a failure?
What action is taken once the signals are restored after a failure?
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What type of ink must be used for recording train movements during a signaling failure?
What type of ink must be used for recording train movements during a signaling failure?
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What should not be done if the signals fail and all communication means are not available?
What should not be done if the signals fail and all communication means are not available?
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What speed must be adhered to when approaching a curve or obstruction according to the Caution Order?
What speed must be adhered to when approaching a curve or obstruction according to the Caution Order?
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What is included in the authority for opening communication during total interruption?
What is included in the authority for opening communication during total interruption?
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When sending a line clear enquiry message, which Station Master is it addressed to?
When sending a line clear enquiry message, which Station Master is it addressed to?
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What does the conditional line clear message allow the Station Master to do?
What does the conditional line clear message allow the Station Master to do?
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What information must be specified in Authority T/A.912 regarding signals?
What information must be specified in Authority T/A.912 regarding signals?
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What accompanies the motor trolley when it is used for opening communications?
What accompanies the motor trolley when it is used for opening communications?
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What should be included in the Caution Order when opening communication?
What should be included in the Caution Order when opening communication?
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What condition is applicable when passing signals in the 'on' position?
What condition is applicable when passing signals in the 'on' position?
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Which of the following is NOT a specified speed limit mentioned in the authority for communication opening?
Which of the following is NOT a specified speed limit mentioned in the authority for communication opening?
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What must the Loco Pilot adhere to when passing an Automatic signal under the authority given?
What must the Loco Pilot adhere to when passing an Automatic signal under the authority given?
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What must be done by the Guard or Assistant Station Master when the motor trolley is used for opening communications?
What must be done by the Guard or Assistant Station Master when the motor trolley is used for opening communications?
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What is the maximum speed allowed when approaching or passing areas with obstructed views according to the Caution Order?
What is the maximum speed allowed when approaching or passing areas with obstructed views according to the Caution Order?
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Which of the following is NOT included in the authority for opening communication during total interruption?
Which of the following is NOT included in the authority for opening communication during total interruption?
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What is the function of the continuous track circuiting or axle counters in the Automatic Block System on double line?
What is the function of the continuous track circuiting or axle counters in the Automatic Block System on double line?
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Which statement regarding the entry into an automatic block signalling section is correct?
Which statement regarding the entry into an automatic block signalling section is correct?
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What does the Caution Order require the operator to do over facing points?
What does the Caution Order require the operator to do over facing points?
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What information must accompany the line clear enquiry message to the Station Master of the block station?
What information must accompany the line clear enquiry message to the Station Master of the block station?
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What is the minimum safe distance that must be clear for a signal to assume an off aspect in the Automatic Block System?
What is the minimum safe distance that must be clear for a signal to assume an off aspect in the Automatic Block System?
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In the context of the Automatic Block System, what governs the operation of Stop signals?
In the context of the Automatic Block System, what governs the operation of Stop signals?
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What happens to a Stop signal once it is passed by a train in the Automatic Block System?
What happens to a Stop signal once it is passed by a train in the Automatic Block System?
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What is the governing principle behind dividing the line into automatic block signalling sections?
What is the governing principle behind dividing the line into automatic block signalling sections?
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What is the primary requirement for a Stop signal to show an off aspect under the Automatic Block System?
What is the primary requirement for a Stop signal to show an off aspect under the Automatic Block System?
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What section of the track is defined as the portion governed by a Stop signal in the Automatic Block System?
What section of the track is defined as the portion governed by a Stop signal in the Automatic Block System?
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What must be established before a train can be dispatched from one block station to another?
What must be established before a train can be dispatched from one block station to another?
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Why is it necessary that Line Clear cannot be obtained unless the line is clear for an adequate distance beyond the first Stop signal?
Why is it necessary that Line Clear cannot be obtained unless the line is clear for an adequate distance beyond the first Stop signal?
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What is the minimum distance that must be clear for Line Clear to be valid?
What is the minimum distance that must be clear for Line Clear to be valid?
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What happens to an Automatic Stop signal when the line is not clear up to the next Automatic Stop signal?
What happens to an Automatic Stop signal when the line is not clear up to the next Automatic Stop signal?
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Which of the following describes a condition when two adjacent block stations can signal for train movement?
Which of the following describes a condition when two adjacent block stations can signal for train movement?
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What must be true about all Stop signals against the direction of traffic?
What must be true about all Stop signals against the direction of traffic?
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What is implied when movement of trains into an automatic block signalling section has been established?
What is implied when movement of trains into an automatic block signalling section has been established?
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How does the provision of Stop signals relate to the establishment of automatic block signalling sections?
How does the provision of Stop signals relate to the establishment of automatic block signalling sections?
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What checks are necessary before obtaining Line Clear from the block station?
What checks are necessary before obtaining Line Clear from the block station?
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What should the Loco Pilot do if no telephone communication is available near a signal?
What should the Loco Pilot do if no telephone communication is available near a signal?
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What is the maximum speed a Loco Pilot can proceed at when visibility is impaired due to environmental conditions?
What is the maximum speed a Loco Pilot can proceed at when visibility is impaired due to environmental conditions?
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What action should the Guard take when the train has stopped at an Automatic Stop signal?
What action should the Guard take when the train has stopped at an Automatic Stop signal?
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What must a Loco Pilot do upon passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'on'?
What must a Loco Pilot do upon passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'on'?
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What is required from the Loco Pilot when visibility is hindered and he is not accompanied by an assistant?
What is required from the Loco Pilot when visibility is hindered and he is not accompanied by an assistant?
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When should the Loco Pilot consider stopping the train after passing an Automatic Stop signal?
When should the Loco Pilot consider stopping the train after passing an Automatic Stop signal?
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What does the Station Master oversee when Centralised Traffic Control is not in operation?
What does the Station Master oversee when Centralised Traffic Control is not in operation?
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What is the precaution the Loco Pilot must follow when encountering environmental hindrances like fog or dust storms?
What is the precaution the Loco Pilot must follow when encountering environmental hindrances like fog or dust storms?
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What should happen if the Loco Pilot needs assistance while operating under poor visibility but is alone?
What should happen if the Loco Pilot needs assistance while operating under poor visibility but is alone?
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After which signal should the Loco Pilot be particularly vigilant for potential obstructions?
After which signal should the Loco Pilot be particularly vigilant for potential obstructions?
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What is the maximum speed a train should not exceed while being piloted into the station on a wrong line?
What is the maximum speed a train should not exceed while being piloted into the station on a wrong line?
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What must the Station Master ensure before dispatching trains running in the right direction?
What must the Station Master ensure before dispatching trains running in the right direction?
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Which document is specifically issued to authorize the first train running in the right direction?
Which document is specifically issued to authorize the first train running in the right direction?
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What must be done by the Station Master before the reception of trains approaching the block station on the right line?
What must be done by the Station Master before the reception of trains approaching the block station on the right line?
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What action must a Loco Pilot take upon receiving a Stop hand signal at the station?
What action must a Loco Pilot take upon receiving a Stop hand signal at the station?
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What information must be exchanged between stations when subsequent trains are allowed to follow on the right line?
What information must be exchanged between stations when subsequent trains are allowed to follow on the right line?
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In the memo issued for a Loco Pilot authorized to bring the train on to line No., what is the stated speed limit over points?
In the memo issued for a Loco Pilot authorized to bring the train on to line No., what is the stated speed limit over points?
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What should be ensured by the Station Master regarding points on the route before a train can receive clearance to enter?
What should be ensured by the Station Master regarding points on the route before a train can receive clearance to enter?
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What happens after the first train in the right direction clears the block station?
What happens after the first train in the right direction clears the block station?
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What is the role of the railway servant at the signal when a train is receiving a hand signal to stop?
What is the role of the railway servant at the signal when a train is receiving a hand signal to stop?
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Study Notes
Additional Signals in Automatic Block Territory
- Additional Automatic Stop signals can be installed between block stations.
- Other fixed signals can be installed for safe train operation.
Conditions for Taking Off Manual Stop Signals
- Home Signal: Cannot be taken off unless the line is clear up to the Starter and an adequate distance beyond it.
- Last Stop Signal: Cannot be taken off for a train unless the traffic direction is established, and the line is clear up to the next Automatic Stop signal or an adequate distance beyond the next Manual Stop signal.
- Adequate distance is 120 meters for Home signals and 180 meters for Last Stop signals unless instructed otherwise.
- A sand hump or derailing switch can replace this distance requirement for Home Signals.
Temporary Single Line When Communication Fails
- If a Home Signal is defective, the Station Master can authorize the Loco Pilot to pass the signal "on."
- If the Last Stop signal is defective or the direction of traffic cannot be established, the Automatic Block Working shall be suspended.
- The entire section between two block stations is considered as one block section.
- Temporary single line working should be introduced between nearby stations with crossovers.
Temporary Single Line Working Procedure
- The Station Master proposing TSL working shall issue a message to the other end with following information:
- Cause of obstruction
- Selected line for TSL
- Source of information that line is clear
- Place of obstruction with Kilometreage
- Speed restrictions on the line
- Last train arrival time at the block station
- Line clear is obtained via various communication methods in order of priority:
- Station to station fixed telephones
- Fixed telephones such as auto-phone and BSNL
- Control telephone
- VHF sets
- For the first train running in the wrong direction, line clear is not required unless both Station Masters verify that all right-direction trains have arrived complete at the station.
- The Station Master shall ensure level crossings are closed before authorizing the train to enter the block section.
- The Loco Pilot of the first train running in the wrong direction receives an authority in form "Authority for Temporary Single line working on double line" (T/D.602) containing:
- Line clear ticket
- Authority to pass signal in ‘on’ position
- Caution order stating:
- Line the train runs on
- Obstruction location
- Requirement for clearance notifications to the rear station for each train
Resumption of Normal Working
- A written certificate from the Engineering department (minimum rank of PWI) is needed to certify the track is safe.
- The Station Master issues a message to other stations and informs the SCOR.
- All entries regarding train working are recorded in red ink in the TSR, showing suspension of double line working, introduction of single line working, and resumption of normal working.
- All records of temporary single line working are retained at the station for review by the Traffic Inspector who then submits a report to the Sr.DOM / DOM within seven days.
Procedure for Train Working During One Line Blockage
- If communications fail and signals are also down due to a train accident, the trains shall be worked as follows:
- Temporary Single line working can only be introduced after a responsible official of the engineering department (minimum rank of Inspector) certifies that the other line is free and safe for train passage.
- Communications are opened by sending a light engine/train engine/motor trolley/tower wagon/trolley/Cycle trolley/Moped trolley/Diesel Car/Rail Motor Car/EMU/MEMU/DMU/DHMU/DEMU in the order of preference.
- The Station Master will hand over "Authority for opening communication during total interruption of communication on single line section" (T/B.602) to the person going to open communications.
- This authority includes:
- Authority to proceed without Line Clear
- Authority to pass signals in ‘on’ position
- Caution order restricting the speed to 15 KMPH with clear view, and not exceeding 10 KMPH with limited view
- Line clear enquiry message
- Conditional line clear message
- Authority T/A.912 authorizing the Loco Pilot/Motorman to pass the Automatic signals at ‘on’.
Shunting During Obstruction
- The Station Master shall ensure that the block section is clear for shunting and treat it as one block section.
- They block forward and exchange messages with the station in advance.
- The Loco Pilot is issued 'Authority T/806' authorizing them to pass LSS at ‘on’.
- A Guard/competent railway servant supervises the shunting.
- The SM shall ensure correct setting and locking of points before authorizing outward/inward movement.
- On return, the Loco Pilot shall stop near LSS and be piloted into the station.
- The SM shall ensure complete arrival of the train and cancel ‘block forward’
Shunting in Rear of Train Leaving Station
- Station Working Rules should be followed considering local conditions like gradient, visibility, speed and weight.
- If permitted, the Station Master at the other end is informed, T/806 is issued without P.N.
- A Guard / competent railway servant supervises the shunting.
Shunting Within Station Section
- Shunting is generally permitted within the station section.
- When Line Clear is granted, shunting in that direction is not permitted unless explicitly allowed in the Station Working Rules (i.e., shunting in the face of an approaching train).
Competency Certificates Renewal
- Station Manager / Station Superintendent / Traffic Inspector are responsible for renewing competency certificates for Guards and Loco Inspectors every 6 months.
- Renewal requires a 1 day orientation course.
- Domestic Office Manager (DOM), Deputy Mechanical Engineer (DME) and Deputy Electrical Engineer (DEE) maintain a record of issued competency certificates.
- Employees without a valid certificate are not permitted to work on Automatic Block System (ABS).
Automatic Block System
- ABS is a signaling system used on double lines
- A red ‘A’ maker signal indicates a stop, signaling an obstruction ahead.
- When encountering a red signal, the Loco Pilot is required to: stop in rear the signal, wait for 1 minute (day) or 2 minutes (night), sound the prescribed whistle and exchange signals with the Guard before proceeding.
- The Guard must show a Stop hand signal towards the rear when the train halts for an Automatic Stop signal.
- When visibility is limited (due to curves, fog, rain etc.), Loco Pilots must proceed at a speed not exceeding 10 kilometers per hour.
- The Guard may be required to assist the Loco Pilot under limited visibility conditions.
- After passing an Automatic Stop signal at ‘on’, a train hauled by any locomotive needs to maintain a distance of 150 meters or 2 clear overhead line electric (OHE) masts to the preceding train or any obstruction on the line.
- This distance can be reduced to 75 meters or 1 clear OHE mast for following EMUs.
- In challenging events, such as floods or dense fog, a distance should be kept to allow the Loco Pilot to notice the flashing tail lamp of the train ahead, or the obstruction.
- The Loco Pilot must control the train’s speed to stop short of any obstructions.
Procedures for Train Operations during Signal Failure
- If a train halts between stations in automatic signalling territory, the Guard of the train must guide the crew of a relief engine.
Single Line Operations
- If a signal failure affects a single line, trains are instructed to proceed at normal speed with caution after confirmation of the first train’s safe arrival at the station ahead.
- Each train must report its clearance to the station in the rear, using a private number.
- The Senior Controller of Operations (SCOR) records all train movements
- Once signals are restored, normal working of trains resumes after exchanging messages with private numbers to confirm the section is clear.
- All records related to train operation are retained at the station and reviewed by a Traffic Inspector.
Prolonged Signal Failure on Double Line
- If all signals between two stations fail and communications are unavailable through various channels (fixed phones, auto-phones, BSNL phones, control phones, and VHF sets), specific procedures must be followed for train operation.
- The Loco Pilot and Guard are briefed about the situation by the Station Master before the train enters the affected section.
- All points within the affected area must be correctly set and locked before authorizing any train movement over them.
- Motor trolley / trolley / cycle trolley / moped trolley operating for communication must be accompanied by the Guard or Assistant Station Master.
- The Station Master must issue an “Authority for opening communication during total interruption of communication on single line section” (T/B.602) to the personnel opening communications.
- This authority includes: permission to proceed without Line Clear; permission to pass signals in the ‘on’ position; a Caution Order with speed restrictions; a Line Clear enquiry message; and a conditional Line Clear message.
- The Loco Pilot is issued additional documents: a conditional Line Clear ticket (T/G.602 up or T/H.602 down); a Line Clear reply message (T/F.602); a Caution Order; a Line Clear enquiry message (T/E.602); and a pilot-out memo for trains traveling in the wrong direction.
Automatic Block System on Double Line
- Track Circuiting or Axle Counters: Used on a double line for Automatic Block System.
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Automatic Block Signalling Sections: When needed, the line between two adjacent block stations can be divided into multiple sections.
- Each section is between two consecutive Stop signals.
- Entry into each section is controlled by a Stop signal.
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Stop Signal Control:
- The signal will not turn to "off" unless the line is clear ahead to the next Stop signal and for a minimum distance beyond.
- The signal automatically turns to "on" as soon as the train passes.
- Minimum Distance: The minimum distance required beyond the next Stop signal is 120 meters, unless specified otherwise.
Automatic Block System on Single Line
- Continuous Track Circuiting or Axle Counters: Required for Automatic Block System on single line.
- Direction of Traffic: Traffic direction is established only after receiving "Line Clear" from the block station ahead.
- Train Departure: A train can only be started from one block station to the next after the direction of traffic is established.
- Line Clear Criteria: "Line Clear" can only be obtained if the line is clear to the first Stop signal and for an adequate distance beyond.
- Automatic Block Signalling Sections: The line can be sectioned using Stop signals between two block stations.
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Automatic Stop Signal Control: After the direction of traffic is established, movement is controlled by Automatic Stop signals. The signal will not turn "off" unless the line is clear to the next Stop signal.
- If the next signal is a Manual Stop signal, the line must be clear for an adequate distance beyond it.
- Signals Against Traffic: All Stop signals against the direction of traffic must be "on."
- Minimum Distance (Single Line): The minimum distance required beyond the next Stop signal is 180 meters, unless specified otherwise.
- Communication Failure: If telephone communication at the signal is not available, the Loco Pilot must use a whistle code, exchange signals with the Guard, and proceed cautiously to the next Stop signal.
- Guard's Duties: When stopped at an Automatic Stop signal, the Guard must signal "Stop" to the rear, except in certain circumstances.
- Low Visibility: If visibility is poor due to curves, fog, rain, dust storms, or other issues, the Loco Pilot must proceed slowly, not exceeding 10 kilometers per hour. The Loco Pilot may request assistance from the Guard in such situations.
- Guard Accompanying Loco Pilot: If visibility is poor, the Guard may be directed to accompany the Loco Pilot on the engine cab to help with observation.
- Cautious Movement After "On" Signal: When passing an Automatic Stop signal that is "on," the Loco Pilot must proceed cautiously until reaching the next Stop signal. Even if the next signal is "off," the Loco Pilot must remain alert for obstructions.
Train Handling on Single Line with Automatic Block System
- Station Master's Responsibilities: The Station Master is responsible for train operations at and between stations.
- Train Movement on Wrong Line: When a train is on the wrong line, the Loco Pilot must stop opposite the relevant signal for the correct line or the Luminous Stop Signal for the wrong line, whichever occurs first.
- Pilot-In Memo: Before a train is moved onto a wrong line, the Station Master must issue a "Pilot-In Memo" to a designated railway servant in uniform who will conduct the train to the station.
Receiving Trains on the Right Line
- First Train on Right Line: The first train running in the correct direction is dispatched with an "Authority for Temporary Single Line Working on Double Line" (T/D.602) and "T/A.912". The train can run at normal speed, subject to speed restrictions.
- Subsequent Trains on Right Line: Subsequent trains on the right line can follow each other if the Station Master in the rear confirms the station in advance is prepared to receive the train and exchanges private numbers.
Receiving Trains on the Right Line
- Reception Signals: Relevant reception signals must be "off" to receive trains approaching the block station on the right line.
Communication Interruption
- Opening Communications During Total Interruption:*
- The Station Master must provide an "Authority for Opening Communication during Total Interruption of Communication on Single Line Section" (T/B.602) to the individual responsible for opening communications which includes several elements.
- Authority to Proceed without Line Clear: Allows the individual to proceed without receiving Line Clear.
- Authority to Pass Signals in "On" Position: Allows the individual to pass signals in the "on" position.
- Caution Order: Restricts the speed to 15 KMPH on straight sections with clear vision, and not exceeding 10 KMPH in areas with reduced visibility.
- Line Clear Enquiry Message: Sent to the station at the other end of the affected block section requesting Line Clear for the train waiting to be dispatched.
- Conditional Line Clear Message: Sent to the station at the other end of the affected block section allowing the return of certain rolling stock.
- T/A.912: Authorizes the Loco Pilot/Motorman to pass Automatic, Semi-Automatic, and Manually operated signals at "on" under certain conditions and observe rules relating to LC gates.
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Explore the critical aspects of additional automatic stop signals and conditions for taking off manual stop signals in railway systems. Understand the protocols for temporary single-line operations during communication failures. This quiz will test your knowledge on safe train operations and signal regulations.