Railway Operations Signal Failure Procedures

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Questions and Answers

What is the first step to resume normal train operations after signals are restored?

Exchange messages using Private Numbers (correct)

Check all passenger tickets for validity

Run trains with no signals to test the system

Notify all train crews of the changes

Who is responsible for scrutinizing the records related to train working on the Automatic Block system?

The Station Master

The Signal Maintainer

The Divisional Railway Manager

The Traffic Inspector (correct)

In the case of signal failure, which of the following should NOT be used as a lone means of communication?

Railway Auto phone

Control Telephone

V.H.F sets (correct)

Inter Cabin/Station Group Telephone

What should a Loco Pilot do when encountering an Automatic Stop signal at 'On'?

Bring the train to a stop in the rear of the signal. Signup and view all the answers

What is required before any train is authorized to move over correctly set points in a signal failure situation?

The train must come to a stand to advise the crew Signup and view all the answers

How long must the Loco Pilot wait after stopping at an Automatic Stop signal at 'On' before proceeding?

1 minute by day and 2 minutes by night. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to the points before any train moves in an affected area during signal failure?

Have them correctly set and locked Signup and view all the answers

What action is the Guard required to take when the train is stopped at an Automatic Stop signal?

Show a Stop hand signal towards the rear. Signup and view all the answers

During an extended signal failure, which action is the FIRST step in managing train movements?

Control the movement of trains from prescribed stations Signup and view all the answers

What should the Loco Pilot do if the line ahead cannot be seen clearly due to weather or visibility issues?

Proceed at a very slow speed not exceeding 10 kmph. Signup and view all the answers

If power-operated points need to be operated during signal failure, what is the required procedure?

They can only be operated under written instructions Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Guard when the Loco Pilot requests assistance due to visibility issues?

To accompany the Loco Pilot on the engine cab. Signup and view all the answers

What should happen after the resumption of normal working in terms of documenting the situation?

The Traffic Inspector must submit a report within seven days Signup and view all the answers

What should the Loco Pilot do after passing an Automatic Stop signal at 'On'?

Proceed cautiously and look for obstructions. Signup and view all the answers

What can cause an Automatic Stop signal to show 'On'?

The presence of a train in the section ahead. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Loco Pilot need to do after waiting at the Automatic Stop signal if it remains at 'On'?

Give the prescribed code of whistle and check with the Guard. Signup and view all the answers

What must be done to the points over which the train will run before the movement of any train is authorized?

They must be correctly set and locked. Signup and view all the answers

Which communication method is NOT mentioned for obtaining Line Clear?

Mobile phones Signup and view all the answers

What information must the Station Master propose when introducing single line working?

The details of the last train that departed Signup and view all the answers

What should the Station Master do upon finding the Last Stop signal at 'On' without apparent reason?

Inform the Centralised Traffic Control Operator for instructions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the written authority for Loco Pilots mentioned in the correction memo?

To allow Loco Pilots to pass the Last Stop signal. Signup and view all the answers

What action should the Centralised Traffic Control Operator take upon being informed of the Last Stop signal being at 'On'?

Ascertain the cause and take 'Off' the Last Stop signal if permissible. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following options is part of the information the Station Master must confirm upon introducing single line working?

The restriction of speed, if any Signup and view all the answers

What should the Station Master do if he cannot contact the Centralised Traffic Control Operator?

Take over emergency control of the station panel. Signup and view all the answers

If the Centralised Traffic Control Operator is unable to take 'Off' the Last Stop signal, what is the next step?

Transfer control to the Station Master. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Station Master do before starting a train when unable to contact the Centralised Traffic Control Operator?

Consult another Station Master in advance. Signup and view all the answers

What is required once the Station Master takes over Emergency Control and is unable to take 'Off' the Last Stop signal?

Set the points according to the station panel's indication. Signup and view all the answers

What documentation must the Station Master issue to the Loco Pilot if he cannot take 'Off' the Last Stop signal?

A written authority to pass the Last Stop signal at 'On'. Signup and view all the answers

What should not be construed as an enquiry regarding the granting of Line Clear?

Consultation with the Station Master of the station in advance. Signup and view all the answers

What condition must be met before obtaining Line Clear for the next train?

All trains and engines have arrived complete at the other station. Signup and view all the answers

What must be done if there is reason to suspect damage on the single line intended for temporary working?

Inspect the section and obtain certification that it is safe. Signup and view all the answers

How is the number and arrival time of completed trains communicated to the relevant Station Master?

Through the exchange of Private Numbers. Signup and view all the answers

In the case of a single line working, who takes the initial steps to introduce this procedure?

The Station Master at one end of the affected section. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum rank required for an official to inspect a section before introducing temporary single line working?

Inspector. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is prohibited for obtaining or giving Line Clear?

Communicating via restored means before trains have arrived. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Automatic Block System?

To manage train traffic and ensure safety during obstruction. Signup and view all the answers

What must occur before the introduction of temporary single line working is approved?

Reliable information in writing must be received. Signup and view all the answers

What must the Loco Pilot do when approaching a section with unclear visibility?

Use the engine whistle and maintain a lookout. Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition can a train enter an affected section without a 15-minute interval?

If special instructions allow for a shorter interval. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for piloting the train when entering a tunnel?

A railway servant equipped with signals and detonators. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Loco Pilot do when approaching the next station according to special instructions?

Bring the train to a stand and sound a long whistle. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Guard when a train is approaching a tunnel?

To maintain a lookout in the rear and light side and tail lamps. Signup and view all the answers

What document does the Loco Pilot hand over at the end of a section?

The Authority to proceed without line clear (T/B 912). Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the buffer lamps and electric headlights before entering a tunnel?

To enhance visibility in dark areas. Signup and view all the answers

What must be ensured before a train can enter a section behind a Stop signal?

All points are correctly set and locked. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Automatic Block System - Double Line

Essentials: Continuous track circuiting or axle counters are required. The line is divided into automatic block signalling sections, each controlled by a stop signal. Track circuits control signals, ensuring the line is clear not only to the next signal but also for a proper distance beyond it. Signals automatically switch to "On" when passed by a train.
Adequate Distance: Unless otherwise specified, the distance beyond the stop signal must be at least 120 meters.
Modified Semi-automatic Stop Signal: Under special instructions, a stop signal between two stations may be modified. This signal is interlocked with the signals at the next station and controlled by the station master. Relevant modes (normal or modified) are visible at both ends of the station. Advanced Starter signals are also interlocked, ensuring the signal is "Off" when the line is clear to the next station's home signal.
Abnormal Conditions: In foggy or bad weather conditions, the 'A' marker on the midsection Modified Semi-automatic Stop signal can be extinguished to ensure visibility.
Loco Pilot Duties: If a loco pilot finds the 'A' marker on a Modified Semi-automatic Stop signal is "On", they must stop the train behind the signal and wait a specified time. If the signal remains "On", the loco pilot proceeds cautiously to the next stop signal.
Guard Duties: The guard shows a stop hand signal when the train stops.

Automatic Block System - Single Line

Essentials: Continuous track circuiting or axle counters are required. The direction of traffic must be established. A train can only proceed to the next block after receiving "Line Clear." The line is divided into automatic block signalling sections controlled by stop signals that do not switch to 'Off' until adequate distance is clear of the next stop signal.
Sufficient Distance: The adequate distance between signals must be at least 180 meters, unless otherwise specified.
Modified Semi-automatic Stop Signal: Similar rules apply for Modified Semi-automatic Stop signals as in the double-line case, with the added specification that all stop signals against the traffic flow must be "On"

Minimum Equipment

Single Line: Signal equipment includes a Home signal, Starter signal, and a stop signal behind the Home signal. Additional stop signals can be placed between stations, and further signals may be implemented for increased safety.
Double Line: On a double line the standard equipment consists of a Home, and Starter signals with a stop signal behind the Home signal. More signals may be included depending on the needs of the line.

Duties of Loco Pilot and Guard

Passing Signals at "On": When encountering a signal at "On," the loco pilot and guard must follow a specific procedure based on the time of the day, contacting the station master if needed. The loco pilot must proceed to the following stop signal with caution. Slow speeds (a maximum of 10 kmph) are required in certain circumstances while visibility is poor.
Abnormal Conditions: The Loco Pilot and the Guard must consider circumstances like fog, storms, and obstructed lines to slow the train speed, and take necessary precautions.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the procedures and responsibilities during signal failures in railway operations. This quiz covers various scenarios, including communication protocols, stopping at signals, and managing train movements. Ensure you understand the correct protocols to follow for safe train operations after signals are restored.