Electrical Block Instruments and Bell Signals

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Questions and Answers

Who is authorized to issue the Competency Certificate for operating electrical block instruments?

The Principal of any Railway Institute

Any certified train operator

The head of the local railway station

A railway servant appointed by the Railway Administration (correct)

How long is the Competency Certificate valid for?

Two years

One year

Five years

Three years (correct)

What does the bell code '000' signify during train signaling?

Obstruction danger signal

Is line clear?

Cancel last signal

Train entering block section (correct)

In bell code signaling, what does '00000' refer to?

Cancel last signal Signup and view all the answers

Which bell code indicates that an obstruction has been removed?

000000 Signup and view all the answers

What does the indication '000000 – 00' signal?

Train passed without tail lamp Signup and view all the answers

According to the signalling codes, which of the following is NOT mentioned?

Track cleared Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the bell code '0000000000000000'?

Testing Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a message or written authority to proceed before it can be written or signed?

It must be necessary. Signup and view all the answers

When can a part of a message be dispatched or acted upon?

Only in the event of preventing an accident. Signup and view all the answers

How long must messages and written authorities to proceed be preserved before destruction?

For one month after issue. Signup and view all the answers

What must occur before a train can leave after a Line Clear has been canceled on a single line?

A message acknowledging the cancellation must be received. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Loco Pilot required to have before taking his train from a station?

A Line Clear Ticket duly signed by the Station Master. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for giving the authority to proceed to the Loco Pilot?

The Station Master or an appointed railway servant Signup and view all the answers

What must happen before the authority to proceed is granted when two trains are involved?

The entire latter train must arrive and clear the running line Signup and view all the answers

What should the Station Master ensure regarding the authority to proceed in writing?

It should be signed in full and in ink Signup and view all the answers

Which action is the Station Master NOT responsible for concerning electrical block instruments?

Surrendering the tokens for outgoing trains Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition does the Station Master issue the authority to proceed using electrical token instruments?

After confirming the outgoing token is received by the Loco Pilot Signup and view all the answers

Who is allowed to open the electrical block instruments?

Only the Station Master or those appointed by special instructions Signup and view all the answers

What is crucial about the authority to proceed given to the Loco Pilot operating a leading engine?

It must reflect the status of both coupled engines Signup and view all the answers

When is the Station Master required to check the accuracy of the authority to proceed?

Automatically when writing it out Signup and view all the answers

Which procedure should be followed if BPACs are not functioning?

Private numbers should be exchanged to ensure train arrival Signup and view all the answers

What does GR 14.10(4) and GR 4.17(3) pertain to regarding Station Working rules?

Considering safety measures while exchanging private numbers Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with a token when it is taken out of an electrical block instrument?

Its number must be recorded in the Train Signal Register. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the token when the train arrives at the block station in advance?

The token is placed in the electrical block instrument at that station. Signup and view all the answers

If electrical block instruments fail, what should be done to obtain Line Clear?

Line Clear should be obtained through electrical communication instruments. Signup and view all the answers

What document should be updated when Line Clear is obtained through electric communication?

The Train Signal Register. Signup and view all the answers

What does PB 1 do when the IB Home is passed at 'on'?

Permits LSS of the rear station to be taken 'off'. Signup and view all the answers

What does pressing PB 3 indicate in conjunction with PB 1 or PB 2?

Cooperation with the station in rear. Signup and view all the answers

What should happen when a token is returned to the block station it started from?

The token must be replaced in the electrical block instrument. Signup and view all the answers

What action is required upon resetting the axle counter due to failure or improper counting?

The rear section's axle counter should be reset. Signup and view all the answers

What mode does the Digital Axle Counter enter after a reset is initiated?

Preparatory Reset Mode. Signup and view all the answers

Which button should be used for cooperation with the station ahead during a reset?

PB 3. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if the axle counter shows 'occupied' indication continuously after the first train clears the section?

Treat the Digital Axle Counter as failed. Signup and view all the answers

In the event of failure of electrical block instruments, what is the status of the Intermediate Block Post?

It is treated as defective. Signup and view all the answers

What must the Station Master do once a train passes the Intermediate Block Signal at 'on'?

Alert the Station Master at the station in advance. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Station Master advise if a train enters an IB section that is already occupied?

To stop the train and inform the loco pilot. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the K1 indicator when a train passes the Intermediate Block Signal at 'on'?

It continues to display until acknowledged. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if a train enters into an unoccupied IB section?

Follow the standard procedure as per para 1.1. Signup and view all the answers

Once both trains clear the section, how is a section treated if the axle counter fails?

It is treated as one block section. Signup and view all the answers

What must be documented by the Station Master after the arrival of the train at both stations?

Duly making entries in the TSR/Station Diary in RED INK. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Station Master do upon receiving a communication about a train entering an IB section?

Follow the instructions for any necessary alerts. Signup and view all the answers

How is the audible alarm for the K1 indicator silenced?

By pressing the acknowledgement button. Signup and view all the answers

What action is taken if the axle counter shows continuous 'occupied' indication after the first train clears the section?

The Digital Axle Counter is considered as failed. Signup and view all the answers

What must occur when the Intermediate Block Post's electrical block instruments fail?

The Intermediate Block Stop signal is treated as defective. Signup and view all the answers

What is required from the Station Master before the audible alarm for the K1 indicator can be silenced?

The acknowledgment button must be pressed. Signup and view all the answers

What steps does the Station Master take if a train enters an IB section occupied by another train?

Advise the Gateman to stop the train and inform the Loco Pilot. Signup and view all the answers

What must the Station Master document in the TSR / Station Diary after the arrival of a train in both circumstances?

The clearance of the section and related train particulars. Signup and view all the answers

What action is allowed when the bell code '0000' is used?

Signal that the obstruction has been removed Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions must be taken when using bell code signaling?

Follow the prescribed codes without exception Signup and view all the answers

What must occur regarding a signal before it can be considered complete?

It must be acknowledged by the receiving station. Signup and view all the answers

What does the bell signal '000000 – 00000' signify?

A train has passed without a tail lamp Signup and view all the answers

What action should the Station Master take if an entry in the Train Signal Register is found to be incorrect?

Draw a line through the entry and write the correction above. Signup and view all the answers

How long should a signal be repeated if no reply is received?

Every 20 seconds until a reply is received. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the validity of the Competency Certificate is accurate?

It is valid for three years from the date of issue Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition must the Station Master who requested Line Clear continue to be on duty?

Until the Train out of block section signal is given and acknowledged. Signup and view all the answers

What does the bell code '100' typically indicate in signaling?

A request for information on line status Signup and view all the answers

What is the requirement for the Train Signal Register entries regarding timing?

Fractional timings are to be rounded down to the nearest whole minute. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the combination '000000 - 0' in bell signaling?

Stop the train and examine for issues Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for all entries made in the Train Signal Register?

The person maintaining the register at any given time. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a necessary step when signaling the arrival of a train into a block section?

Indicate the train's presence using code '000' Signup and view all the answers

What should happen when Station Masters change duty, concerning the Train Signal Register?

A line should be drawn across the register with both signatures. Signup and view all the answers

What common error is prevented by the use of the prescribed bell codes?

Miscommunication between stations Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of failing to acknowledge a received signal?

The signal must be acknowledged to ensure it is valid. Signup and view all the answers

What is the authorized method of recording incorrect entries in the Train Signal Register?

Striking through the incorrect entry and writing the correction above it. Signup and view all the answers

What must be done immediately after taking out a token from an electrical block instrument?

Record the token's number in the Train Signal Register. Signup and view all the answers

What should occur when a train returns to the block station from where it started?

The token must be placed in the electrical block instrument from which it was extracted. Signup and view all the answers

What action is required to obtain Line Clear if electrical block instruments fail?

Use the electrical communication instruments to obtain Line Clear. Signup and view all the answers

What does PB 3 indicate when pressed in conjunction with resetting buttons?

Cooperation with the station ahead has been confirmed. Signup and view all the answers

In the preparatory reset mode of the Digital Axle Counter, what follows the initiation of the reset?

The rear section axle counter enters a state of waiting. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the Train Signal Register when Line Clear is obtained through alternate methods?

An entry must be recorded indicating Line Clear was established through electrical communication. Signup and view all the answers

Which procedure should be followed to reset an axle counter if improper counting occurs?

Pressing the respective PB button while coordinating with the station ahead is necessary. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary condition for pressing PB 1 after passing the IB Home at 'on' state?

To permit the LSS of the rear station to be taken 'off'. Signup and view all the answers

Which button must be used alongside PB 1 or PB 2 for cooperation with the station ahead during a reset?

PB 3. Signup and view all the answers

What must the Loco Pilot verify regarding the authority to proceed before taking his train from a block station?

It must refer to the block section he is about to enter and be duly signed. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a valid method for the Loco Pilot to receive authority to proceed on a single line?

By an informal handshake agreement with the previous Loco Pilot. Signup and view all the answers

Under which condition can the block section be closed according to the procedures outlined?

Once the block section is cleared by the arrival of the train or removal of the cause of blocking. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Station Master do with the entry made regarding the block section being occupied?

Sign it for verification and also ensure it is in the station diary. Signup and view all the answers

What actions should the Loco Pilot take if the authority to proceed is not compliant with regulations?

Wait for the conditions to be rectified before taking the train past the station. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following documents is NOT acceptable as authority to proceed on a double line?

A verbal instruction from the Station Master. Signup and view all the answers

If a train is delayed due to an accident, what is the protocol for recording the event?

The same procedure applies as for other delays, with both Station Masters signing the entry. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the prescribed bell code signal when closing the block section?

To indicate that the block section has been cleared. Signup and view all the answers

What should happen if the electrical block instruments fail?

Procedures for obtaining Line Clear must be followed as outlined under special instructions. Signup and view all the answers

What does the responsibility of ensuring the proper authority includes for the Loco Pilot?

Ensuring it is complete and duly signed in full and in ink if written. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Electrical Block Instruments

No one can operate electrical block instruments without a competency certificate, granted by a railway servant, valid for three years
If an electrical block instrument, track circuit, or axle counter fails, Line Clear shall be obtained through the electrical communication instruments
If the electrical block instruments, track circuits or axle counters or their electric connections fail, Line Clear shall be obtained through the electrical communication instruments
A written authority to proceed must describe the failure and be made in the Train Signal Register
The Principal, Zonal Railway Training Institute, Moula-ali is in charge of issuing the competency certificates

Bell Signals

Bell signals are used for communication between block stations
The codes and their meanings are displayed at each block station
Six pause one bell code means "Stop and examine train"
Sixteen bell code means "Testing"

Station Master Responsibility

The Station Master is responsible for operating electrical block instruments and ensuring the correct implementation of bell signals and communication instruments
The Station Master shall ensure the tokens are surrendered by the Loco Pilot before an outgoing token is delivered
The Station Master is responsible for ensuring that the token is put in the electrical block instrument immediately upon receiving it
The Station Master is responsible for ensuring that no one except authorized personnel opens the electrical block instruments
The Station Master shall be responsible to ensure that no one but himself operates the electrical block instruments

Token Procedures

A token shall not be taken out of an electrical block instrument earlier than necessary, and its number shall be recorded in the Train Signal Register
The Station Master shall retain the token until it is issued to a Loco Pilot or returned to the instrument
Upon arrival of the train at the block station, the Loco Pilot shall surrender the token in accordance with special instructions
If a train must return to the block station from which it started, the token shall be replaced in the electrical block instrument

Intermediate Block Post

If the electrical block instruments or the track circuiting fail at an Intermediate Block Post, the Intermediate Block Stop signal shall be treated as defective
The Intermediate Block Post shall be deemed to be closed, and the section between the stations on either side of the Intermediate Block Post shall be treated as one block section
If a train passes the Intermediate Block Stop signal at "on," the Station Master must notify the relevant personnel and make entries in the Train Signal Register

Authority to Proceed

An authority to proceed shall not be given to the Loco Pilot until the prescribed procedure has been followed
An authority to proceed shall be given only by the Station Master or by a designated railway servant
The Station Master must ensure the authority to proceed is accurate, complete, and signed in full and in ink
The Station Master must not give an authority to proceed to the Loco Pilot until the entire train has arrived and is clear of the running line
If multiple engines are coupled, the authority to proceed shall be given to the Loco Pilot of the leading engine
All messages and written authorities to proceed must be written in ink and signed by the authorized person
No message or written authority to proceed shall be written out until necessary
No part of any message shall be dispatched or acted upon until the whole message has been written out, except in cases of accidents or emergencies

Line Clear Tickets

When electrical block instruments are unavailable or malfunctioning, Line Clear Tickets are used to provide authority to proceed
Line Clear Tickets should be in the prescribed form and format
When a Line Clear has been cancelled, no train shall leave in the opposite direction until a message is received confirming the cancellation and the detained status of the train for which the Line Clear was given
The Loco Pilot shall not take his train from a station without a Line Clear Ticket properly signed by the Station Master
An authority to proceed shall not be given to the Loco Pilot until the prescribed procedure has been followed
In case of failure or non-provision of electrical block instruments, the authority to proceed is a Line Clear Ticket.
The Line Clear ticket must be in the form of Form No. T/C 1425, issued under special instruction

Electrical Block Instruments

Operators of electrical block instruments must hold a certificate of competency issued by the Railway Administration.
The certificate is valid for three years or a longer period as determined by special instructions.
The Principal of the Zonal Railway Training Institute, Moula-ali is responsible for issuing the certificate.

Bell Code Signals

A bell code system is used for signalling trains.
Each signal has a unique code consisting of a number of strokes or beats.
Signals must be acknowledged by sending the correct code.
If a station does not reply, the signal should be repeated every 20 seconds until a reply is received.

Train Signal Register (TSR)

A Train Signal Register must be kept by the Station Master.
All signals received or sent are recorded in the TSR, along with the time of receipt or dispatch.
Entries in the TSR are made in ink and any corrections are made by drawing a line through the incorrect entry and writing the correct information above it.
The Station Master responsible for the TSR is accountable for all entries.
The Station Master who initiates Line Clear for a train remains on duty until the "Train out of block section" signal is given and acknowledged.
When Station Masters change duty, a line is drawn across the TSR with both Station Masters signing and entering the time.
If a train is working on line, both Station Masters must initial the entries made in the TSR.
Similar procedures are applicable in case of accidents, engine failures, OHE failures etc.

Authority to Proceed

Loco Pilots must obtain authorization before moving their trains.
Authorization can be obtained through various methods:
- Taking 'off' of the last Stop signal on a double line.
- Receiving a token for the block section on a single line.
- Receiving a Line Clear Ticket signed by the Station Master on a single line.
- Using a document prescribed by special instructions on a single line.
- Taking 'off' of the last Stop signal on sections with tokenless electrical block instruments, track circuits or axle counters.
Loco Pilots must ensure they have the correct authority to proceed, including verifying that the authority is in writing, complete, and duly signed if applicable.

Closing the Block Section

The block section must be closed after a train has passed through or the cause of blockage has been removed.
This is achieved by the block station in advance by giving the prescribed bell code signal.
Tokens are handled in accordance with special instructions when a train arrives at the block station.

Failure of Electrical Block Instruments, Track Circuits, or Axle Counters

If electrical block instruments, track circuits or axle counters fail, Line Clear must be obtained through electrical communication instruments.
A written authority to proceed, with a note about the failed equipment, is issued in such cases.

Intermediate Block Post (IBP)

An IBP is a signaling point located between two stations.
If the electrical block instruments, track circuiting or axle counters at an IBP fail, the IBP is considered closed and the entire section between the two stations becomes one block section.
Specific indications are provided at IBPs to indicate the passage of trains and potential blockages.
The K1 indicator appears and an audible alarm sounds when a train passes the IBP at 'on.'
In the event of a train entering an occupied blockage section, the Station Master notifies relevant personnel and issues necessary orders to ensure safe operation.
The indication disappears upon the restoration of normal circuits.

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Description

This quiz covers essential information about electrical block instruments and bell signals used in railway operations. It discusses the necessity of competency certificates for operators, protocols for communication in case of equipment failure, and the use of bell signals between block stations. Test your knowledge on these critical safety procedures.