Non-Interlocked Working Procedures
85 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What must DCM quantify when assessing the impact of Network Interruption (NI)?

  • All costs associated with administrative expenses
  • Only the cost of replacement materials
  • Actual impact in monetary terms for both passenger and freight traffic (correct)
  • Only the anticipated losses from freight traffic

    • Which of the following is NOT a cost that should be included in the traffic cost of proposed NI?

  • Expenses related to temporary NI staff
  • Detentions related to train schedules
  • Costs arising from passenger cancellations
  • Maintenance fees for existing railway infrastructure (correct)

    • When is Network Interruption (NI) considered unavoidable?

  • When administrative costs exceed traffic cost
  • When minor works are scheduled
  • When the project scope is limited to minor adjustments
  • When no alternative methods can reduce overall costs (correct)

    • Which of the following works require NI?

    <p>Overhauling of cabins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the DRM in the evaluation process of NI?

    <p>To ensure estimates are realistic and reasonable</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what situation can work be managed without NI according to the guidelines?

    <p>Replacement of Mechanical lever frame by panel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following categories does NI working fall into?

    <p>Minor and Major Works</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main consideration for S&T when evaluating if new gears can be installed?

    <p>The cost comparison with proposed NI traffic costs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which staff should be prioritized for outstation duty during night-time operations?

    <p>Senior staff with previous NI experience</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the Temporary Working Instructions (TWI)?

    <p>To replace portions of the Station Working Rules during NI working</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which pieces of information remain valid under the TWI?

    <p>Inter-station distances and yard layout descriptions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must TWI be read in conjunction with?

    <p>All relevant operational guidelines including the existing SWR</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT typically covered by the TWI?

    <p>Staff assignments for different shifts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum duration for which Non-Interlocked (NI) working should last?

    <p>14 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which staff member is overall in charge of Non-Interlocked working at the station?

    <p>Sectional TI</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if Non-Interlocked working is planned for more than three days?

    <p>Obtain personal approval from the General Manager</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition must be met regarding yard layouts and other major works before conducting NI working?

    <p>Plans and clearances must be available at least 1 month prior</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should the duration of Non-Interlocked working be planned?

    <p>Only during temperate weather</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be consulted for NI working lasting up to three days?

    <p>DRM and Branch Officers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the staffing arrangement during Non-Interlocked working?

    <p>Staff of all departments must work round the clock in three shifts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of not arranging precedence or crossings at the station?

    <p>To avoid conflicts and hazards</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If it is not possible to nominate one line for train movement, what should be done?

    <p>Nominate two specific lines for Up and Down movement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a crucial step before starting Non-Interlocked working?

    <p>Finalize the signal plan at least 45 days in advance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended approach when dealing with conflicting train movements during NI working?

    <p>Cancel the less important moves</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be indicated in the Signalling Plan regarding existing facilities?

    <p>Facilities may be curtailed, modified, or restricted</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When assessing the maximum capacity of a junction station during NI working, what time constraint should be considered?

    <p>10 minutes for point changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much of the calculated reduced capacity should be utilized during operations?

    <p>80%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of documentation is required for train movements during the NI working period?

    <p>All train movements with time and sequence details</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be prioritized during the planning phase of train operations in relation to scheduling?

    <p>Keeping an adequate cushion in operations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be taken into account when planning the yard layout after NI completion?

    <p>Existing facilities and additional provisions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key factors when changing points for train movement?

    <p>Formalities must be completed before changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What necessity arises from the conditions during NI working for crossing and precedence?

    <p>Restrictions must be minimal and select specific routes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential for the signalling plan regarding permissible routings?

    <p>It must show permissible routings and simultaneous movement facilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the required staff arrangement for each goomty?

    <p>One ASM and two Pointsman</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is responsible for monitoring the working of multiple goomties within a zone?

    <p>The TI</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a crucial requirement before commencing non-interlocking (NI) work?

    <p>Full complement of staff as per norm</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What arrangement is suggested for outstation staff during non-interlocking preparation?

    <p>Dormitory type arrangements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of staff should be prioritized for non-interlocking work?

    <p>Staff with adequate knowledge and previous experience</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of goomty ASMs during their duty hours?

    <p>They are in-charge of working points/levers under their charge</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be ensured about the visibility of points from the goomty?

    <p>Both ends of each point must be clearly visible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In a zone consisting of four goomties, who will be in charge during each shift?

    <p>The TI</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a requirement regarding the walking distance for staff at the site?

    <p>Staff must not be required to walk long distances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the designated role of the coordinating ASM?

    <p>To supervise the goomty ASMs and clarify issues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Non-Interlocked (NI) working primarily entail?

    <p>Temporary disconnection of signaling equipment for maintenance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant risk associated with Non-Interlocked working?

    <p>Increased staff responsibility and potential for errors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When is Non-Interlocked working considered unavoidable?

    <p>When making modifications to existing signaling technology</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What steps should S&T departments take regarding Non-Interlocked work during the project proposal stage?

    <p>Clarify if NI is required and its expected duration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which guidelines are to be followed for assessing the need for Non-Interlocked working?

    <p>Avoid NI unless modifying existing S&amp;T systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact does Non-Interlocked working have on train operations?

    <p>Slows down operations and reduces safety</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be prioritized in the planning phase before conducting Non-Interlocked working?

    <p>Ensuring clear visibility of all signaling points</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical requirement before starting Non-Interlocked working?

    <p>Ensuring proper communication protocols are established</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be ensured before a NI Home/Starter signal can be taken off?

    <p>All points must be correctly set, clamped, and padlocked.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum speed limit over all points and crossings during the NI period?

    <p>15 kmph</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which signal may be exhibited without a route indicator in the case of colour light signals during NI working?

    <p>NI home signal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required before covering a last stop signal for NI work?

    <p>A traffic block of 2-3 hours.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the movement of trains to and from the block sections, what signal controls the movement?

    <p>The last stop signal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended strategy regarding train movements during the Network Interruption (NI) phase?

    <p>Identify and cancel or reschedule conflicting moves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much of the calculated reduced capacity should ideally be utilized during operations following NI?

    <p>80% of the calculated capacity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which option must be included in the signalling plan during NI to ensure safe operations?

    <p>Permissible routings and simultaneous movement facilities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In assessing the impact of NI working, what factor is crucial concerning point changes?

    <p>Manual point changes take approximately 10 minutes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common practice regarding crossing and precedence during NI operations?

    <p>Minimizing crossings and selecting specific routes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be documented for every train movement during the NI period?

    <p>Exact sequence of points and time of movement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of existing facilities must be indicated in the signalling plan during the Network Interruption?

    <p>Whether any existing facilities are to be curtailed, modified, or restricted.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the focus during the planning phase of the yard layout after NI is completed?

    <p>Incorporating additional facilities as specified.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What time constraint must be considered at a junction station during NI working?

    <p>The need for manual point changes takes about 10 minutes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is essential for efficient functioning of communication during Network Interruption (NI)?

    <p>Telephonic communication arrangements are made indoors and at relevant locations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be reported after the assurance of each running staff regarding changes during NI working?

    <p>Documentation must be submitted to Sr.DOM/Sr.DSO/Sr.DME/Sr.DEE.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of publicity is essential to inform the public about the repercussions on train running during NI?

    <p>Advertisements through various media, including newspapers and electronic channels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    For which purpose must adjoining divisions and railways be informed during NI working?

    <p>To provide details of the program pertaining to NI working.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of additional fail-safe communication must be arranged between control office and the NI station?

    <p>Backup telephonic communication channels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What equipment must be provided to supervisors working at site to ensure effective operations during NI?

    <p>Walkie-talkie sets for prompt communication.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is primarily responsible for ensuring that control staff are briefed on changes relating to NI working?

    <p>Section controllers working on control boards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be ensured about communication arrangements between the station and adjoining stations?

    <p>Foolproof arrangements should prevent any total failure of communication.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be documented concerning the assurance given by running staff about changes during NI?

    <p>All assurance should be documented in assurance registers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of loudspeakers at goomties during NI operations?

    <p>To make announcements regarding train movement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary responsibility of goomty ASMs during their duty hours?

    <p>Manage the points and levers under their charge</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition must be met before commencing Non-Interlocked (NI) work?

    <p>Full complement of staff must be available as per norms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should staff at major terminal stations be arranged for Non-Interlocking (NI) work?

    <p>Additional staff may be sourced from adjoining divisions if necessary</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What essential provision should be made for outstation staff during NI preparation?

    <p>Temporary resting areas around the station</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What monitoring role does a TI play in relation to goomties?

    <p>He periodically moves among the goomties within his zone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes the ideal arrangement for outstation staff during NI preparation?

    <p>Dormitory type arrangements with essential facilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor is crucial when ensuring visibility for setting points?

    <p>Both ends of each point must be visible from the goomty</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines the role of the coordinating ASM?

    <p>Oversees the duties of other ASMs and pointsmen at the station</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a stipulation concerning the walking distance for setting points at the site?

    <p>Walking distances should be minimized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which personnel must be posted in each goomty per shift?

    <p>One ASM and two Pointsmen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Non-Interlocked (NI) Working

    • NI working should be undertaken only as a last resort when a new gear installation can't be accomplished without it.
    • DCM must calculate the anticipated losses from passenger and freight traffic to determine the monetary impact of NI working.
    • Losses due to cancellation, short termination, diversion, rescheduling, detention to trains, and limitations on freight traffic bookings should be included.
    • The traffic cost of NI working should be communicated to S&T to evaluate if new gears can be installed in a new building for a cost lower than the expected cost of NI working.
    • If the cost of installing new gears in a new building is lower, the project should be carried out without NI.
    • The entire exercise must be overseen by the DRM to ensure that all estimates are reasonable and no figures are unrealistic.
    • NI working should be recorded on the original tracing, signed by the branch officers involved and the DRM.
    • Major Works include overhauling of cabins, replacement of panels by panels at road side stations, meggering of cables, and changes in yard layouts.
    • Minor Works include replacements of mechanical lever frames, panels, and RRIs.
    • NI working is not recommended for any replacement operation except replacing a panel with a panel at a road side station.
    • Existing facilities at a station undergoing NI working should be maintained and any changes to these facilities should be communicated in detail.
    • NI working should be implemented for no more than 14 days, with a minimum of 3 days for smaller works and a maximum of 7 days for larger projects.
    • Only one station within a division should undergo NI working at any given time.
    • NI working should be planned during temperate weather to minimize the risk of wrong actions due to extreme weather conditions.

    Planning for NI Working

    • The Signal Plan for NI working should be finalized in HQ at least 45 days prior to the commencement of work.
    • All plans and clearances, including CRS sanctions required for NI working, should be available one month before the start of NI working.
    • The Signal Plan must indicate permissible routings and simultaneous movement facilities.
    • The Signal Plan should clarify whether existing train movement facilities are to be curtailed, modified, or restricted.
    • During NI working, changing points manually after a train passes takes around 10 minutes, impacting station capacity.
    • Train movements should be documented with the exact sequence of points, whether in normal or reverse operation.
    • Conflicting train movements should be identified and addressed by canceling, rescheduling, or diverting less important movements.
    • Crossings and precedence should be minimized to ensure efficient train movement.
    • Only 80% of the reduced capacity should be utilized during NI working to account for unforeseen failures like ACP or equipment malfunctions.
    • Adequate cushions should be incorporated into train operations, with an initial focus on canceling, rescheduling, or diverting more trains than anticipated.

    Staff Arrangements

    • Each goomty should have one ASM and two Pointsman in each shift, with the ASM posted with the indoor ASM being called the coordinating ASM.
    • Goomty ASMs are responsible for the working of points/levers under their charge and work under the direct supervision of the coordinating ASM on duty.
    • Each zone should have one TI in charge of four or more goomties, who will periodically check and monitor the goomties under their charge.
    • For major terminal stations, staff from adjoining divisions can be brought in to provide additional staff during NI working.
    • NI working should not be started until all necessary staff are present and have received sufficient training.
    • Staff with experience in NI working and those currently posted at major junctions should be prioritized.
    • Comfortable boarding and lodging should be provided for outstation staff.
    • Boarding and lodging can be catered to by using coaches at sidings or by setting up temporary dormitories.
    • During the day shift, junior inexperienced staff from outstation should be deployed.
    • Each goomty team should have at least one staff member with NI working experience.

    Temporary Working Instructions (TWI)

    • TWI is a set of instructions that replace the SWR of the station during NI working.
    • While not as detailed as the original SWR, TWI must cover all aspects of train operation included in the original SWR.
    • The static information of SWR remains valid, including inter-station distances, descriptions of yard layout, and level crossing gates.
    • TWI replaces aspects of the SWR related to ensuring clearance of running lines, granting line clear, reception/despatch of trains, working of level crossing gates, and checks done by means of slots, lock bars, point locks, and signals.
    • TWI should list the number of goomties, the portions of the yard each goomty controls, and the goomties involved for train receptions and departures.
    • TWI should detail the procedures for obtaining line clear, ensuring track clearance, closing level crossing gates, setting routes, and identifying the involved points.

    Non-Interlocked Working

    • Non-interlocked (NI) working refers temporarily disconnecting signaling equipment such as points, signals, track circuits, axle counters for maintenance or modifications.
    • NI working is typically necessary for tasks like overhauling levers, Yard remodeling, introducing new panel systems, or cable installation.
    • It is a less safe system than interlocked working because safety measures are absent.
    • During NI, it is critical for staff to be highly attentive as it increases safety risks.
    • NI working inevitably slows train operations.

    Avoiding NI Working

    • It is preferable to avoid NI working altogether, especially when introducing new signaling equipment.
    • Work on existing signaling equipment often requires NI working.
    • New signaling equipment can typically be installed under traffic blocks, eliminating the need for NI working.
    • The S&T department must clearly define the need for NI working within project proposals and specify the duration of NI working if required. This information should be noted on project drawings.

    Planning for NI Working

    • The Sr.DOM and Sr.IT (Senior Divisional Operations Manager; Senior Inspector Telecommunications) must provide details about:
      • Existing yard layout and its functionalities.
      • Works to be completed by various departments before, during, and after NI working.
      • Updated yard layout upon completion of NI working.
    • Signaling plans should outline permissible train routes and simultaneous movement facilities.
    • The signaling plan should clearly identify any curtailments, modifications, or restrictions to existing train movement facilities.

    Timetabling Impact of NI Working

    • Manually changing points after a train passes (under NI) takes approximately 10 minutes.
    • The maximum capacity of the station needs to be calculated taking into account the time constraints associated with manual point changing during NI working.
    • All train reception and dispatch movements must be documented along with:
      • Time of movement
      • Exact sequence of points (normal or reverse)
    • Train movements sharing the same point should be assessed for conflicting moves; this is especially critical for movements scheduled within 10 minutes of one another.
    • Conflicts involving point changes should be addressed by canceling, rescheduling, or diverting the less important moves.
    • Crossing and train precedence should be limited as much as possible to facilitate smoother traffic flow.
    • Only 80% of the reduced station capacity should be utilized to account for potential unforeseen delays caused by equipment failures or similar occurrences.
    • It is recommended to initially cancel or reschedule more trains than anticipated to accommodate possible delays.
    • Station facilities should be arranged to minimize staff walking distances to set points.
    • The location of points should be clearly visible from the goomty (cabin).
    • Goomties (small cabins) should be located near the first and last stop signals for efficient train management.

    Staff Arrangements

    • Each goomty should be staffed with:
      • One ASM (Assistant Station Master)
      • Two pointsmen per shift.
    • Goomty ASMs are responsible for all points and levers under their care and work under the direct supervision of the coordinating ASM on duty.
    • Multiple goomties should be organized into zones, each overseen by a TI (Traffic Inspector). The TI should regularly monitor the goomties within their zone.
    • Major terminal stations may require additional staff from neighboring divisions.
    • NI working should not begin without a full complement of trained staff.
      • Staff should have adequate knowledge of NI working and prior experience with NI procedures.
    • Outstation staff should be provided with appropriate boarding and lodging during NI.
    • Staff should be trained in detail regarding all aspects of NI working and post-NI changes.

    Dissemination of Information

    • Information regarding NI working and post-NI changes should be disseminated to all loco pilots, guards, and other running staff:
      • Yard plans should be displayed and staff should be instructed on the changes.
      • All running staff should acknowledge receipt of the information.
    • Adjoining divisions and railways, as well as notice stations and interchange points, should also be notified of the NI working program.
    • All control staff, including CHC (Chief Control Office), Dy.CHC (Deputy Chief Control Office), section controllers, power controllers, etc., should be thoroughly briefed on the changes.
    • The public should be informed about potential train disruptions through newspaper advertisements, electronic media, and station announcements.

    Telecommunications, Lighting and Medical

    • Reliable communication is essential throughout NI working:
      • Communication must be established between the station and two adjoining stations on either side.
      • Satisfactory communication links should be in place between the station, cabins, goomties, and level crossing gates.
      • Backup communication links should be available between the control office and the NI station.
    • Public address systems should be operational for announcements and warnings.
    • Loudspeakers should be provided on each goomty for train movement announcements.
    • Walkie-talkie sets should be provided to all supervisors working at site.
    • Gangmen, keymen, and patrolmen within the 2 block sections on either side of the NI station should be equipped with walkie-talkie sets and electronic hand signal lamps.
    • Adequate lighting should be provided at:
      • Level crossing gates.
      • Outermost goomties.

    Introduction of NI Working

    • The DRM (Divisional Railway Manager) or ADRM (Assistant DRM) must ensure that adequate arrangements regarding staff, safety equipment, lighting, telecommunications, and ground position are in place before allowing NI working.
    • Prior to the start of NI working, operating/safety, engineering, signal, electrical, and mechanical branch officers should visit the working site alongside the DRM/ADRM. They should verify the availability of required arrangements before authorizing non-interlocking.
    • On the day of NI working commencement, the Signal Inspector responsible for the NI work should issue a disconnection memo for the gears proposed for NI work.

    Train Operation During NI Period

    • A speed restriction of 15 kmph should be enforced over all points and crossings.
    • A speed restriction board (15 kmph) must be displayed at the foot of the first stop signal.
    • Caution aspects must be applied to the following signals:
      • Color light signals: Common NI home signal without route indicator.
      • MAUQ/TALQ (Magnetically Operated/Track Circuit Controlled Absolute Permissive): Single arm NI home signal.
      • Warning signals are deactivated by placing two cross bars.
    • The NI home or starter signal can only be taken off after ensuring that:
      • All points on the route are correctly set, facing and trailing points are clamped and padlocked.
      • Facing points are correctly set, clamped, padlocked, and manned.
      • Level crossing gates are closed.
    • The last stop signal should remain disconnected throughout NI working until the end of NI working.
    • Train movements into and out of block sections should be controlled by the last stop signal.
    • Paper line clears should not typically be issued to loco pilots for movement in the block section.
    • A traffic block of 2-3 hours should be used for disconnecting the last stop signal and block instrument and reconnecting the new last stop signal with the new block instrument.

    Train Running

    • Each train movement must be announced on the loudspeaker well in advance, specifying the goomty involved.
    • All points and crossings should be manually changed after each train passes, observing procedures for safety and accuracy.
    • Loco pilots and guards must be fully aware of changes to track layout and signal indications during NI working.
    • Staff should be equipped with lanterns, hand signals, and other appropriate tools for safe train movement and signal control.
    • All procedures related to NI working should be followed strictly.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Operating Manual-Traffic-99-109 PDF

    Description

    This quiz focuses on the essential procedures and guidelines for non-interlocked (NI) working in railway operations. It covers the conditions under which NI working should be implemented, the calculation of anticipated losses, and the oversight required by the DRM. Understanding these principles is crucial for ensuring proper management of traffic costs and project execution.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Open
    Browser
    Browser