ERTMS Operational Procedures Overview

ERTMS Operational Procedures (OPS1)

• Driver Responsibilities: Drivers are responsible for observing all indications on the train and trackside signals, adhering to DMI (Driver Machine Interface) and trackside indications, except when rules require a lower speed
• Ground Staff Responsibilities: Ground staff monitoring shunting movements must observe all lineside markers, signs, and signals, taking appropriate action accordingly.

Signal Types and Indications

• Marker Boards: Locate points up to which trains can move, based on DMI, written orders, Track Movement Authority, or On-Track Machine Protection. Have unique identification plates. Yellow triangle points towards the line.
• Color Light Signals: Used where trains enter or exit ERTMS Level 2 Full Supervision. Display three aspects:
• Green: Proceed at permitted maximum speed (DMI or Train Controller authorized)
• Red: Do not proceed unless authorized by Train Controller (written order or Track Movement Authority)
• Calling On: Proceed, but the line ahead may not be clear. No further movement without a Movement Authority or Train Controller permission.
• Sign Boards (Stop Boards): Indicate locations where trains may not proceed without explicit Train Controller authorization or local operating instructions (yards/terminals/depots).
• Limit of Shunt Boards: Two types exist for forward and propelling shunting movements. These can only be passed with Train Controller authority.
• Level Transition Boards: Indicate locations where trains transition between ERTMS levels (Level 2 or Level 0). A Level 2 board signifies the commencement of level 2 operation, while a Level 0 board signifies the end.
• Identification Plates (ID Plates): Each signal, marker board, etc., has an ID plate with the Interlocking (IXL) number and specific identification of the equipment.

ERTMS Cab Signalling (OPS1.4)

• Driver Machine Interface (DMI): Displays vital information for safe train operation including permissible speed and Movement Authority distance. Additional information might come from trackside signs.
• Speed Control: Adhere to the speed indicated on the DMI. Don't exceed lower speeds enforced by technical constraints or rules.
• Movement Authorities (MAs):
• Full Supervision (FS): Normal MA, allowing maximum speed as defined in Network Operational Appendix, traction specific instructions, train documents or operating instructions. Lower speeds must be adhered to if required.
• On Sight (OS): Permits entry into an occupied section, allowing speed required to stop safely short of any obstruction ahead. Ceiling speeds and stopping distances are vital to this.
• On Sight (OS) In Transit: Train automatically supervised down to ceiling speed, warning displayed and acknowledged, brake intervention if not acknowledged.
• On Sight (OS) received at start of mission: Warning about on-sight mode is displayed; must be acknowledged by the driver or brake intervention will occur.
• Operating Modes:
• Shunt (SH): Used for shunting movements. Train controller authorization needed before and during a shunting movement. Passenger trains not permitted under shunt mode without specific authorization.
• Shunt Selected by Driver: Train must be stationary, shunt symbol not an authority to move, Train Controller authority is required.
• Shunt Ordered by System: Driver acknowledgment required, removes train data and terminates communications. Movement authorization from Train Controller is mandatory.
• Staff Responsible (SR): Used when a signaling system cannot provide a Movement Authority or if a train's position is invalid. Train Controller authority needed.
• Standby (SB): Automatically selected after successful self-test when opening the driver's desk.
• Unfitted (UN): Used when running on non-ERTMS lines. Only maximum design speed displayed on the DMI.

Entering/Exiting ERTMS Areas (OPS1.5, OPS1.6)

• Entering ERTMS area: ERTMS-fitted train needs working cab signalling equipment, or a Track Movement Authority. Validate on-train system, enter Driver ID and other data, and inform the Train Controller upon completing mission. Transition to Level 2 automatically once train passes the Level 2 Transition board, check the DMI, check for a valid Movement Authority. Movements on non ERTMS lines are managed by Track Movement Authority.
• Exiting ERTMS area: Automatic transition; acknowledge the warning of approaching transition. Observe the Level 0 Transition board, check that the DMI displays Level 0, and obey all lineside signals. Inform the Train Controller when the mission is complete.
• Exiting to terminal/siding: Local operating instructions apply.

End of Authority (EOA) (OPS1.7)

• Missing Marker Board: Stop at the location indicated by the DMI. Contact and inform the Train Controller.
• Unauthorized Movements: Do not move a train without ERTMS supervision or Train Controller authorization

Withdrawal of a Movement Authority (OPS1.8)

• Automatic Braking/Communication: if an MA is withdrawn, train will brake to a stand, communicate with the Train Controller to understand the reason and instructions. The process requires caution and communication. Train Controller must inform the driver if an MA is being withdrawn prior to actions.
• Train Controller Responsibilities: If a Train Controller removes an MA, they are required to ensure the driver is aware of this action before proceeding with it, except in emergencies or specific event handling modules that cover incidents like accidents or weather-related events

ERTMS Failures (OPS1.9)

• Transition Failures (Entering/Exiting): Ensure train stops, contact the Train Controller, and follow instructions. Train Controller resolves the issues and determines if a proceed or alternative mode is available.
• Running Failures: Automatic braking occurs when ERTMS equipment fails. Ensure to report the failure immediately for all cases and adhere to necessary instructions from the Train Controller.
• Signalling Equipment/Boards Failure: Report any damage, missing or unusual aspects of signals and lineside equipment immediately to the Train Controller

Written Orders (OPS1.10)

• Train Controller Responsibilities: Issue written orders if need for authority, for different scenarios such as continuing beyond EOA, caution, line inspections, or reduced-speed operation.
• Driver Responsibilities: Complete the written order dictated by Train Controller.

This quiz covers the operational procedures under ERTMS, focusing on the responsibilities of drivers and ground staff. It also explains various signal types and their indications, emphasizing how they guide train movements. Test your understanding of these critical aspects for safe and efficient railway operations.