Qualified Signaller Handbook
This document lists the standards Qualified Signaller should follow, this includes everything from rules to signalling regulations. Note that while this handbook is for Qualified Signallers, the handbook itself is not classified. Feel free to share this handbook with your peers even if they are not Qualified Signallers. Testers are also expected to read and understand the rules of sword usage listed in this handbook.
Rules for Qualified Signallers
Qualified Signallers follow all in game rules like other players. However, there are few rules that only apply to Qualified Signallers.
- Do not share confidential information that you are trusted with.
- You are expected to Signal properly. Multiple instances of improper signalling can warrant infractions - remember that you are a trusted individual regarding signalling and are expected to set an example for other players. Mistakes do happen, and we understand, so a few here and there are acceptable.
- Listen to staff members instructions and follow it if you are required to do so. Qualified Signallers are not staff members.
- Do not abuse tools or extra powers given to you.
- Trolling, Causing disruption or Spreading misinformation is unacceptable.
- To improve communications and to ensure that you receive information regarding regulations updates, you must stay within the Discord server in order to retain your role. If you leave the server for over 72 hours, or are banned from the server, you are likely to be demoted from QS.
As a QS, you will be held to a higher standard. Meaning you are expected to act more professionally compared to regular members.
As a QS, you still have to follow all the normal in-game and Discord rules. If you break any of these normal rules, you may be punished on a QS level. This means you can receive a warning, suspension or demotion for breaking a normal rule if the QS managers deem it necessary.
Guidelines for tools
You may only use the sword in these following situations:
- You have permission from a staff member to use your sword for something specific.
- Troller clearly trolling inside your signal box while ignoring your warnings (please ask them to leave first).
- Players blocking points.
- Players blocking traffic on the area you are controlling, such as AFKing in a train for long period of time (minimum 5 minutes). You may only do this if no bypass routes are available without affecting traffic flow significantly (i.e SAT).
- Players with derailed trains to the point of not being able to continue that are refusing to despawn.
- Removing unwanted people out of the signal box, this can be because they are obstructing you from properly signalling. You must always warn them before removing.
Please note that in most of these circumstances, you should call an admin if any are only rather than using your sword. You should only use your sword if no moderation staff are active in-game and your situation matches one of those listed above.
You are not permitted to use the sword in these situations:
- A train passing a signal at danger (SPADing).
- Call a moderator, unless they have derailed.
- Bad signallers.
- You cannot take over a signal box from other users. Call a moderator.
- Moderating other members.
- You are not a staff member.
You may be asked to justify any sword usage to a member of staff, ensure you think before you act to prevent any moderation action. Please do not try to find loopholes or "bend the rules", these can and do still count as infractions and are likely to result in punishment.
Infractions
If one of the rules listed above is broken, you will be subjected to a varying punishment depending on your infraction, and how many times you have been previously punished.
Types of Infractions
| Type of Infraction: | Punishment severity: |
| Minor Infraction | 1st: Warning
2nd: Suspension 7 days |
| Medium Infraction | 1st: Warning OR Suspension 7 days
2nd: Suspension 14 days OR Demotion |
| Major Infraction | 1st: Suspension 14 days OR Demotion
2nd: QS Blacklist |
HR or QS managers may alter the severity of your punishment depending on the situation.
QS managers always reserve the right to issue a demotion or suspension if they deem necessary.
(Suspensions, Demotions and Blacklists always require approval from a QS manager.)
List of applicable infractions
The following list is not exhaustive.
| Minor Infractions | Medium Infractions | Major Infractions |
|---|---|---|
| Failing to listen to staff members | Improper signalling - Major (such as causing trains to derail or crash) | Intentionally abusing tools/powers. |
| Improper signalling - minor (such as incorrect belling, failing to follow the signalling regulations and the instructions) | Multiple cases of minor improper signalling | Trolling or causing disruption. |
| Accidental tool misuse |
Signalling Regulations
This section dictates the signalling regulations for the game. Every Qualified Signaller should follow the regulations stated in these sections.
General Signalling Regulations
These regulations apply to both Absolute Block and Electric Token Block methods of working.
Bell Codes
This is a list of standard bell codes.
See Bell Codes for more information
| Method of working | Description | Bell codes |
| Absolute Block
Electric Token Block |
Call attention | 1 |
| Is Line Clear for; | ||
| Class 1 / Express passenger train | 4 | |
| Class 2 / Ordinary Passenger Train | 3-1
3-1-2 (If electric) | |
| Class 3 | 1-3-1 | |
| Class 5 / Empty coaching stocks | 2-2-1 | |
| Class 9 / Other passenger train specially authorised | 1-4 | |
| Class 0 / Light engine(s) | 2-3 | |
| Train Entering Section | 2 | |
| Train out of section | 2-1 | |
| Obstruction removed | 2-1-2 | |
| Cancelling | 3-5 | |
| Train incorrectly described | 5-3 | |
| Opening of signal box | 5-5-5 | |
| Closure of signal box | 7-5-5 | |
| Testing Equipments | 16 | |
| Shunting into forward section | 3-3-2 | |
| Shunt withdrawn | 8 | |
| Blocking back outside home signal | 3-3 | |
| Stop and examine train | 7 | |
| Train proceeding without authority on the right direction | 4-5-5 | |
| Train proceeding without authority on the wrong direction | 2-5-5 | |
| Train passed without tail lamp | 9 or 4-5 | |
| Electric Token Block only | Release token | 5-2 |
| Token replaced | 2-5 |
You must send call attention (1) and have it acknowledged for all bell codes before you send any other bell code, except for:
- Train entering section (2)
- Obstruction danger (6)
- Train or vehicles proceeding without authority in the right direction (4-5-5)
- Train or vehicles proceeding without authority in the wrong direction (2-5-5)
You must acknowledge all bell signals by repeating them, except when specified otherwise in the signalling regulations. You must also not consider any bell signal as understood until it has been correctly acknowledged.
Train Classifications
This following table lists the classifications used to identify types of trains and their headcodes. [1]
| Description | Class |
| Express passenger train | 1 |
| Nominated parcel or postal train | |
| Traction unit going to assist a failed train (1Z99) | |
| Snow plough going to clear the line (1Z99) | |
| Ordinary passenger train | 2 |
| Officers’ special train (2Z01) | |
| Test train (2Qxx) | |
| Freight train if specially authorised | 3 |
| A parcel train | |
| Autumn-railhead treatment train | |
| Empty coaching stock train if specially authorised | |
| Freight train which can run up to 75 mph (120 km/h) | 4 |
| Empty coaching stock train | 5 |
| Freight train which can run up to 60 mph (95 km/h) | 6 |
| Freight train which can run up to 45 mph (70 km/h) | 7 |
| Freight train which can run up to 35 mph (55 km/h | 8 |
| Other passenger train if specially authorised | 9 |
| Light locomotive or locomotives | 0 |
As headcodes in-game are not used for signalling regulations currently, train types may be differentiated by their spawn location and the train class. These are:
| Class 1 | Class 43 | Any locomotive hauled passenger service | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 2 | Class 377 | Class 450 | Class 158 | Class 411 | Class 145 | Class 150 |
| Class 6 | Class 37 - with freight consist | |||||
| Class 0 | Class 37 | Class 58 | Class 92 | Steam Train | ||
| Class 3 | Class 950 | |||||
| Class 9 | Any staff inserted train | SLS Railtours | ||||
| Class 5 | Any train that has left its spawn but has not stopped at the first passenger station | |||||
Change of Duties
When going off duty, you must:
- Inform the signaller taking over of any trains in the section,
- Whether the equipment is in order
- Any other necessary information
If you are taking over duty, you must ensure you are informed of the above points.
Checking and Testing Equipment
When you open a signal box you must, as soon as possible, check that the instruments, signals, points and other equipment are working correctly.
Where provided, you must test the bells and block indicators as long as no train has been signalled or is due to be signalled.
You must send testing equipment (16), and when acknowledged, move the block indicator to each position in the correct sequence. (Line clear, Train on Line, Line Blocked/Normal)
When you have acknowledged testing equipment, you must acknowledge each movement of the block indicator with one bell. You must instruct the signaller at the adjacent box to do the same.
You do not need to perform these checks when you’re taking over a signal box from another signaller and the last signaller reports that all of the equipment is working correctly.
To perform testing equipment on an Electric Token Block installation, you must bell testing equipment (16), to the adjacent box, and once acknowledged, remove the token and clear the section signal on your side. Ensure the adjacent box does the same to complete the test.
Working Signalling Equipment
You must replace a distant signal to caution as soon as the train has passed the signal, and you must replace a stop signal to danger as soon as the last vehicle of the train has passed the signal.
If a train is stopped with a portion still on the approach side of a stop signal, you must place that signal to danger. If you have cleared a signal for a train to proceed, you must not replace it to danger if this will cause the driver to see an irregular sequence of aspects or indications.
In an emergency, if you have replaced any signal to danger, you must make sure that the driver is aware you have done so. If you cannot clear a stop signal, you must not clear any associated signals on the approach to it until the train has stopped or nearly stopped at each signal in turn. You do not need to apply this instruction if the stop signal on the approach to the stop signal at danger is a colour light that can show a yellow aspect.
You must always use the main aspect or indication when there is an associated subsidiary or position-light signal, except when:
- Shunting
- The line is occupied, and permissive working is authorised for that line and the type of train concerned
- A failure of equipment means the main aspect or indication cannot be displayed
If the signal at a diverging junction does not have approach release[2] arrangements, you must not clear the signal for a route where the speed must be reduced, until the train is close to the signal. You must also be sure that the speed of the train has been suitably reduced.
Ground Frames
Before you give a release for a ground frame, you must reach a clear understanding with the ground frame operator about:
- The movement to be made
- Whether or not the train is to be shut in
If the train is to be shut in, before you restore the ground frame release to normal operation, you must get confirmation from the ground frame operator that the train is clear of the running line. You must not release the ground frame for a movement from the siding to the running line until all track circuits are clear:
- Between the protecting signal for the running line and the points to be released
- To the next main running signal on the line to which the movement is to be made unless the Signal Box Special Instructions allow a movement onto an occupied line
If the ground frame line releases into an Absolute Block section, you must obtain permission from the signaller controlling that section before performing the movement.
Working of points
You must always use facing-point locks (FPLs) for the passage of trains and, whenever possible, for shunting movements. You can only allow a vehicle carrying passengers to pass over points in the facing direction if the points are locked by a facing-point lock.
Stop and examine train
You must carry out this regulation if you become aware of anything unusual or wrong such as:
- Signals of alarm
- An insecure load
- Train half derailed or does not seem fit to proceed
- Other mishaps
If you become aware of anything unusual or wrong with a train, or you receive stop and examine train (7), you must immediately:
- Stop the train concerned
- Tell the signaller who controls the area from which the train approached what has happened
- Arrange for the train to be examined and dealt with as necessary
- If you cannot stop the train concerned before it enters the area controlled by another signaller, you must immediately tell that signaller what has happened by sending stop and examine train
If the driver has stated that the train is fit to proceed, or a competent person and yourself have agreed that the train is fit to proceed, you may signal the train as normal. If the train is deemed not fit to resume normal working then the driver should be instructed to jump out of the train so it is deleted.
Absolute Block Regulations
These regulations only apply to signal boxes that use the Absolute Block method of working. The principle of the Absolute Block system is to prevent more than one train being in a section on the same line, at the same time.
Definition
The following terms are used in these regulations and apply to signallers in Absolute Block signalling areas.
Absolute Block section
The line between the last stop signal(s) controlled from one signal box, and the home signal controlled by the next signal box.
An Absolute Block section will be referred to as a section within this document.
Block signals
A stop signal that controls the entrance to, or exit from, a block section. The following are block signals.
Home signal: the first stop signal controlled by a signal box that controls the exit from an Absolute Block section.
Section signal: a stop signal that controls the entrance to an Absolute Block section.
Method of Signalling
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A, B and C represent three signal boxes on the same line of route. A train is to be signalled from signal box A to signal box B. The procedure shown must be repeated along the line of route if the train is to proceed further.
Normal method of signalling trains
Actions of signaller at signal box A
Before you start the procedure to allow a train to enter the section, you must have received train out of section (2-1) for the previous train, and the block indicator for the line concerned must be in the normal position. You must also send call attention (1) to signal box B, and when this has been acknowledged, send the appropriate is line clear bell code.
When the signaller at signal box B has acknowledged the is line clear bell code and placed the block indicator to line clear, you may clear the signals for the train to proceed. When the train has passed the signal box, or the location shown in the Signal Box Special Instructions, you must send train entering section (2) to signal box B.
If the train is standing at a signal beyond your signal box, you must send train entering section (2) as soon as the section signal clears.
Actions of signaller at signal box B
When you have received is line clear, you must acknowledge is line clear to signal box A and place the block indicator for the line concerned to line clear. You must not acknowledge is line clear, or place the block indicator to line clear, if the line is not clear, or for any reason you cannot give permission for the train to approach.
On receiving train entering section, you must acknowledge train entering section to signal box A and place the block indicator for the line concerned to Train on Line.
After receiving train entering section from signal box A. If the train is to proceed to signal box C, then you must repeat the actions of signal box A if the conditions are met.
Actions of signaller at signal box A
Before you start the procedure to allow a train to enter the section:
Sending ‘train out of section’
You must observe the train as it passes the signal box and make sure it has a tail lamp at the rear. When the train has passed the home signal, you must:
- Send call attention to signal box A
- When this has been acknowledged, send train out of section (2-1)
When this has been acknowledged, place the block indicator for the line concerned to normal. You may only perform this instruction once you are certain that the train is complete with a tail lamp.
When it is necessary to send train out of section before the last vehicle of the train passes your signal box, you must make sure that the train has arrived, complete with tail lamp, before doing so.
Train not proceeding or incorrect ‘is line clear’ is sent
Cancelling
If a train is not going to proceed but is line clear or train entering section has been acknowledged by the signaller at signal box B, you must place the relevant signals to danger and send cancelling. (Signal box A)
If you receive cancelling, you must acknowledge it to signal box A and place the block indicator to normal. (Signal box B)
Train incorrectly described
If you have sent the incorrect is line clear and the signaller at signal box B has acknowledged it, you must send train incorrectly described to signal box B, and when this has been acknowledged, send the correct is line clear. (Signal box A)
If you receive train incorrectly described, you must acknowledge that signal, then acknowledge the correct is line clear and leave the position of the block indicator as it is. (Signal box B)
Blocking the Section
Blocking back outside home signal (3-3)
Note: For the purpose of this part of the regulation, A and B represent two signal boxes on the same line of route. The line outside the home signal at signal box B is to be occupied. This regulation must be used if it is necessary to occupy the line with a movement outside the home signal. It may also be used for minor obstruction on the line.
When the line is to be occupied (Signal box B)
You must send blocking back outside home signal, and when this has been acknowledged, place or keep the block indicator at train on line.
You may only allow the line outside the home signal to be occupied when blocking back outside home signal has been acknowledged, and the block indicator is at train on line.
When blocking back outside home signal (3-3) must not be acknowledged. (Signal box A)
You must not acknowledge blocking back outside home signal if you have allowed a movement to be made which would conflict with a movement at signal box B, unless you are sure that such a movement could be made safely.
When the line is clear again. (Signal box B)
When the line is again clear to the home signal, you must send obstruction removed to signal box A, and place the block indicator to normal.
Shunting into forward section
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A and B represent two signal boxes on the same line of route. A shunting movement is to take place beyond the section signal at signal box A.
Signalling the shunting movement
You must not allow a train to enter the forward section for shunting purposes until you have sent shunting into forward section (3-3-2), and the signaller at signal box B has acknowledged this. (Signal box A)
You may send this bell signal if the position of the block indicator is normal or at train on line. (Signal box A)
When the line is clear to the home signal, you must acknowledge shunting into forward section and place the block indicator to line clear if the block controls allow you to do this. (Signal box B)
When the train is ready to enter the section for shunting purposes and you have reached a clear understanding with the driver, you must:
- Clear the signal if you can, or instruct the driver to pass the section signal at danger
- Send train entering section to signal box B. (Signal box A)
When you receive train entering section from signal box A, you must place or keep the block indicator at train on line. You may allow the line up to the home signal to be occupied, fouled or obstructed until you receive shunt withdrawn (8) from signal box A. (Signal box B)
When the shunting movement is complete
When the movement is completed and the forward section is again clear, you must send shunt withdrawn to signal box B. (Signal box A)
You must acknowledge shunt withdrawn to signal box A and then take one of the following actions. (Signal box B)
If the block indicator was normal when shunting into forward section was acknowledged and if the line up to the home signal is clear, place the block indicator to normal.
If the block indicator was at train on line when shunting into forward section was acknowledged, and if the line is still obstructed, you must keep the block indicator at train on line, or if the line is now clear, you must send train out of section or
obstruction removed depending on the circumstances and place the block indicator to normal.
Obstruction of the line
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A and B represent two signal boxes on the same line of route. The signaller at signal box B becomes aware or suspects that there is an obstruction between signal box A and signal box B.
When to send obstruction danger
If you need to stop trains from signal box A because of an obstruction or other emergency between your signal box and signal box A, or within the section at your signal box, you must immediately and without sending call attention, send obstruction danger (6) to signal box A.
You must do this whether or not you have received is line clear or train entering section bell codes. You do not need to send obstruction danger if the obstruction is only affecting the line for trains heading towards you from signal box A.
You must also send obstruction danger when you see, or become aware of, a train approaching for which you have not:
- Acknowledged is line clear
- Received train entering section
- Received train or vehicles proceeding without authority in the right direction
- Acknowledged shunting into forward section.
Sending obstruction danger
When sending the obstruction danger bell code, you must:
- Place or keep the block indicator to train on line until the obstruction has been removed
- If necessary, place or keep your signals at danger to protect the obstruction
You must then immediately tell the signaller at signal box A the reason for sending obstruction danger via box or global chat. You must reach a clear understanding of those lines that must remain blocked and those that can be reopened for trains.
If, after you have sent obstruction danger to signal box A, you receive train proceeding without authority in the right direction for a train which had been accepted before obstruction danger was sent, you must take all possible actions to stop the approaching train.
Only then must you acknowledge train proceeding without authority in the right direction. If you receive cancelling from the signaller at signal box A for a train which had been accepted before you sent obstruction danger, you must acknowledge cancelling but you must keep the block indicator at train on line until the obstruction has been removed.
Receiving ‘obstruction danger’
If you receive obstruction danger (6) from signal box B, you must: immediately place or keep all signals leading towards signal box B at danger, and place or keep the block indicator for the line from signal box B at train on line and keep it in this position until you are sure that line is clear and you have sent the bell code for obstruction removed. Should no train have been signalled towards signal box B, you must acknowledge obstruction danger.
If you cannot stop a train heading towards signal box B, or there is already a train in the section, you must not acknowledge obstruction danger but immediately send train proceeding without authority in the right direction to signal box B.
If you succeed in stopping a train heading towards signal box B for which is line clear has been acknowledged, you must, after acknowledging obstruction danger, send cancelling to signal box B.
You must find out the reason why obstruction danger was sent. You must reach a clear understanding of those lines that must remain blocked and those that can be reopened for trains.
You must not allow any train to proceed towards signal box B until you have received obstruction removed and the signaller at signal box B has acknowledged is line clear.
When the obstruction has been removed
When the obstruction has been removed or a train can pass clear of the obstruction, you must send obstruction removed to Signal Box A and place the block indicator to normal.
However, if the signaller at signal box A had been unable to stop a train for which is line clear has been acknowledged, you must not send obstruction removed to signal box A until that train is clear of the section as shown in regulation ‘sending train out of section’.
Train proceeding without authority
Note: For the purpose of this part of the regulation, A, B and C represent three signal boxes on the same line of route. A train or vehicle proceeds without authority in the right direction from signal box A towards signal box B.
Immediate actions at signal box A
If a train or vehicle proceeds without authority in the right direction, or has entered the section without your authority, you must send the bell code for 'train proceeding without authority in the right direction' to Signal Box B. You are then to stop any train travelling towards signal box B on any other line, and or stop any train on the opposite line, if you consider this to be necessary.
If possible, alter the position of points to divert trains and prevent collisions. Place or keep signals at danger against the train or vehicle and any other trains that could be put in danger. Arrange for the line on which the train or vehicle is proceeding without authority to be cleared. You should also lower all level crossings and take any other possible action to reduce the risk of a collision.
Immediate actions at signal box B
If you have received train proceeding without authority in the right direction from signal box A, you must place or keep the block indicator at train on line for that line, and stop any train proceeding towards signal box A. If it is possible, alter the position of points to divert trains and prevent collisions, and place or keep signals at danger against the train or vehicle and any other trains that could be put in danger. Try to arrange for the line on which the train or vehicle is proceeding without authority to be cleared. If necessary, send train proceeding without authority in the right direction to signal box C, unless you can divert the train or vehicle. Ensure to lower all affected level crossings and take any other possible action to reduce the risk of a collision.
Once the train has stopped, only then you must then acknowledge train proceeding without authority in the right direction. staff members should be called, or the train should be respawned if it derails - whichever is necessary.
The same instructions apply in the wrong direction, but you must send train proceeding without authority in the wrong direction instead.
Train passed without tail lamp
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A, B and C represent three signal boxes on the same line of route. A train is passing signal box B going towards signal box C.
Actions of signaller at signal box B
If a train passes without a tail lamp, or you are not sure that it has a tail lamp and you cannot deal with the train before it enters the section, or to do so would mean bringing the train to a sudden stop,
You must:
- Send train passed without tail lamp (9) to signal box C
- Not send train out of section to the signal box A, but instead send train passed without tail lamp (4-5)
- Keep the block indicator at train on line.
You must stop the first train travelling towards signal box A. Tell the driver what is going on, and instruct to proceed at cuation when the signal is cleared. Inform the driver to report if anything is seen to be abnormal.
If you receive train out of section from signal box C, or the signaller there tells you the train is complete, you must send train out of section to signal box A and place the block indicator to normal.
Actions of signaller at Signal box C
If you receive train passed without tail lamp (9), you must stop the approaching train and find out if it is complete.
If the train is complete and the line is clear as shown in regulation 'Sending train out of section', you must send train out of section to signal box B, and place the block indicator to normal.
If the train is complete but you are not in a position to send train out of section, you must tell the signaller at signal box B that the train is complete. If the train is not complete, you must tell the signaller at signal box B and take any other necessary action depending on the circumstances. A staff member should be called to inspect the line and delete any detached train, if necessary.
Opening and closing signal box
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A, B and C represent three signal boxes on the same line of route. Signal box B is to open and close.
Opening a signal box
To open the signal box, you must send opening of signal box to signal box A and signal box C. Once you have opened the signal box, unless a train has been signalled or is immediately due to be signalled, you must test the block indicators for the line concerned. If you are just changing duties with another signaller, you need not to perform this regulation.
Closing a signal box
You must not close the signal box or leave duty until you have received train out of section for the last train to pass, the block indicator is at normal, and you have sent and had acknowledged closing of signal box to both signal box A and signal box C.
If you are just changing duties with another signaller, you do not to perform this regulation.
Electric Token Block Regulations
The principle of the electric token block system is to prevent more than one train being in the same section at the same time.
Definition
The following terms are used in these regulations and apply to signallers in electric token block signalling areas.
| Block Signals | A stop signal that controls the entrance to, or exit from, a block. The following are block signals:
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single line block section | The line between the section signal controlled from one signal box, and the home signal controlled by the next signal box in the direction of travel. A single-line block section will be referred to as a section within this document. |
Handling token
You (the signaller) are the only person who is authorised to remove a token from or replace it into the token instrument.
Except where another person is specially appointed to the duty (as authorised in Signal box special instruction) you are the only person who is authorised to receive a token from or deliver a token to the driver.
You must not allow a token to be transferred from one train to another without it being passed through a token instrument. Where a train has more than one locomotive at the leading end, you must give the token to the driver of the leading locomotive.
You may only perform token exchange if the train is standing still.
Method of Signalling
Normal method of signalling
Actions of signaller at signal box A
Before you start the procedure to allow a train to enter the section, you must have sent or received train out of section (2-1) for the previous train and you must not have given permission for a train to approach from the opposite end. The indicator must also be in the normal (or token in) position.
You must send call attention to signal box B, and when this has been acknowledged, send the appropriate is line clear.
When the signaller at signal box B has acknowledged is line clear and operated the token instrument, you must:
- Withdraw a token
- Clear the section signal for the train to proceed
- Give the token to the driver.
When the train departs you must send train entering section (2) to signal box B.
Actions of signaller at Signal box B
When you have received is line clear, you must: acknowledge is line clear to signal box and operate the token instrument to allow a token to be withdrawn at signal box A.
You must not acknowledge is line clear, nor operate the token instrument, if the line is not clear, or for any reason you cannot give permission for the train to approach. After you receive train entering section from signal box A, if the train is to continue to signal box C, you must carry out the actions of the signaller at signal box A as shown in the regulation above to signal box C.
Sending ‘train out of section’
When the train arrives at your signal box, the driver will give you the token. You must observe the train as it passes the signal box and make sure it has a tail lamp at the rear.
When the train, complete with tail lamp, has passed clear of the section and is clear of any points leading to the section, you must place the token into the token instrument, send call attention to signal box A. When this has been acknowledged, send train out of section.
When it is necessary to send train out of section before the last vehicle of the train passes your signal box, you must make sure the train has arrived, complete with tail lamp, before doing so.
Train not proceeding, or incorrect ‘is line clear’ sent
Cancelling
If a train is not going to proceed, but is line clear or train entering section has been acknowledged by the signaller at signal box B, you must place the relevant signals to danger, restore the token to the token instrument and send the bell code for cancelling.
Train incorrectly described
If you have sent an incorrect is line clear and the signaller at signal box B has acknowledged it, you must send train incorrectly described to signal box B, and when this has been acknowledged, send the correct is line clear.
You must not restore the token to the token instrument or replace the signal to danger.
Occupying the single line for shunting purposes
Releasing a token for shunting purposes
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, a shunting movement is to occupy the section between signal box A and signal box B outside the home signal at signal box B.
You may allow a token to be released for shunting purposes at the other end of the section as long as you have sent or received train out of section for the previous train through the section, and neither of you have given permission for a train to approach. Do ensure the line is clear to the home signal at your signal box. (For both signal box A and B)
When a token is needed for shunting purposes, you must send release token to signal box A. (Signal box B)
If the line is clear to the home signal, you may acknowledge release token and operate the token instrument to allow a token to be withdrawn at signal box B. (Signal box A)
When you have withdrawn the token, you must tell the driver what is to happen, give the token to the driver, then clear the signal, where provided. (Signal box B)
If you cannot give permission for a token to be withdrawn, you must not acknowledge release token or operate the token instrument. You must tell the signaller at signal box B the reason. (Signal box A)
When the shunting movement has been completed and the section is again clear, you must replace the token in the instrument and send token replaced to signal box A. (Signal box B)
Obstruction of the line
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A and B represent two signal boxes on the same line of route. The signaller at signal box B becomes aware or suspects there is an obstruction between signal box A and signal box B.
When to send ‘obstruction danger’
If you need to stop trains from signal box A because of an obstruction or other emergency between your signal box and signal box A, or within the section at your signal box, you must immediately and without sending call attention, send obstruction danger (6) to signal box A.
You must do this whether or not you have received is line clear or train entering section. You do not need to send obstruction danger if the obstruction is only affecting the line for trains heading towards you from signal box, and the obstruction is beyond the home signal, or there are facing points that you immediately set for another direction clear of the obstruction and that line is clear up to and including the home signal.
You must also send obstruction danger when you see, or become aware of, a train approaching for which you have not acknowledged is line clear, received train entering section, received train or vehicles proceeding without authority on the right direction, or sending ‘obstruction danger’.
When sending obstruction danger, if necessary, place or keep your signals at danger to protect the obstruction. You must also tell the signaller at signal box A the reason for sending obstruction danger.
If, after you have sent obstruction danger to signal box A, you receive train or vehicles proceeding without authority on the right direction for a train which had been accepted before obstruction danger was sent, you must take all possible actions to stop the approaching train. Only then must you acknowledge train or vehicles proceeding without authority on the right direction. If you receive cancelling from the signaller at signal box A for a train which had been accepted before you sent obstruction danger, you must acknowledge cancelling.
Receiving ‘obstruction danger’
If you receive obstruction danger from signal box B, you must immediately place or keep all signals leading towards signal box B at danger. If no train has been signalled towards signal box B, you must acknowledge obstruction danger.
If you cannot stop a train heading towards signal box B, or there is already a train in the section, you must not acknowledge obstruction danger but immediately send train or vehicles proceeding without authority on the right direction to signal box B.
If you succeed in stopping a train heading towards signal box B for which is line clear has been acknowledged, you must, after acknowledging obstruction danger, replace the token in the token instrument and send cancelling to signal box B. You must find out the reason why obstruction danger was sent. You must not allow any train to proceed towards signal box B until you have received obstruction removed (2-1-2) and the signaller at signal box B has acknowledged is line clear.
When the obstruction is removed
When the obstruction has been removed or a train can pass clear of the obstruction, you must send obstruction removed to Signal Box A.
However, if the signaller at signal box A had been unable to stop a train for which is line clear has been acknowledged, you must not send obstruction removed to signal box A until that train is clear of the section as shown in regulation ‘Sending train out of section’.
Train proceeding without authority
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A, B and C represent three signal boxes on the same line of route. A train or vehicle proceeds without authority from signal box A towards signal box B.
Signal Box A Actions
If a train or vehicle proceeds without authority or has entered the section without authority or without the correct token, you must place or keep the signals at danger on the line affected. If necessary and without sending call attention, send train proceeding without authority on the right direction (4-5-5) to signal box B. If it is possible, alter the position of points to divert trains and prevent collisions. You should also try to arrange for the line on which the train or vehicle is proceeding without authority to be cleared. Ensure you close all affected level crossings and take any other possible action to reduce the risk of a collision.
Signal Box B Actions
If you have received train or vehicles proceeding without authority on the right direction from signal box A, you must stop any train proceeding towards signal box A, and if possible, alter the position of points to divert trains and prevent collisions. Place or keep signals at danger against the train or vehicle and any other trains that could be put in danger.
If possible, arrange for the line on which the train or vehicle is proceeding without authority to be cleared, and if necessary, send train or vehicles proceeding without authority to signal box C, unless you can divert the train or vehicle. Ensure you close all affected level crossings and take any other possible action to reduce the risk of a collision
Once the train has stopped, only then you must then acknowledge train proceeding without authority in the right direction. staff members should be called or the train should be respawned if it derails. Whichever is necessary.
Token must then be returned to the machine, or modified working arrangement must be implemented if the token is lost.
Train passed without tail lamp
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A, B and C represent three signal boxes on the same line of route. A train is passing signal box B going towards signal box C.
Actions of signaller at Signal Box B
If a train passes without a tail lamp, or you are not sure that it has a tail lamp, you must not place the token into the token instrument. Do not send train out of section to signal box A, but instead send train passed without tail lamp (4-5).
If you can deal with the train yourself, do so before it enters the forward section, if you can do so without bringing it to a sudden stop. If the train is complete, send train out of section to signal box A. If you are not in a position to send train out of section, you must tell the signaller at signal box A that the train is complete.
If the train is not complete, you must tell the signaller at signal box A and come to a clear understanding of the actions to be taken depending on the circumstances. A staff member should be called to inspect the line and delete any detached train, if necessary.
If you cannot deal with the train before it enters the forward section, or to do so would mean bringing the train to a unsafe sudden stop, you must send train passed without tail lamp (9) to signal box C.
If you receive train out of section from signal box C, or the signaller there tells you the train is complete, you must place the token into the token instrument and send train out of section to signal box A.
Actions of signaller at signal box C
If you receive train passed without tail lamp (9) from Signal Box B, you must stop the approaching train and find out if it is complete.
If the train is complete and the line is clear as shown in regulation ‘Sending train out of section’ you must place the token in the token instrument and send train out of section to signal box B.
If the train is complete but you are not in a position to send train out of section, you must tell the signaller at signal box B that the train is complete. If the train is not complete, you must tell the signaller at signal box B and come to a clear understanding of the actions to be taken, depending on the circumstances. (Staff member should be called to inspect the line and delete any detached train, if necessary.)
If a token is lost.
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A and B represent two signal boxes on the same line of route. Each part of the regulation deals with the token or token equipment between signal box A and signal box B.
If a token is lost, call a staff member, and implement the following.
Pilot working - Modified working arrangement A
Actions for signaller at Signal box A and B.
If a token is lost and no staff members are available to return the token back to the machine. You must appoint a competent individual. This individual will therefore be called a “Pilot”.
Actions for signaller at Signal box A.
Before you are allowed to send a train over the single line, you must come to a clear understanding with the signaller at signal box B and the pilot.
You must instruct the pilot to board every train traversing over the single line, then you may signal the train normally.
Actions of the signaller at Signal box B
If pilot working is implemented, you must not send train out of section till the train with the pilot arrived at your signal box. Only then you may send train out of section in accordance with the ‘Electric token block regulations - Sending train out of section’.
Only once the token is returned to the machine, you may cancel pilot working. You must come to a clear understanding with the signaller at Signal box B and the pilot before returning to normal working.
Alternative working - Modified working arrangement B
If a token is lost and no available staff members are available to return the token and no competent individual can be found to implement pilot working.
You must come to a clear understanding of any alternative working arrangement between Signal box A and Signal box B. You are allowed to use bell only signalling until the token is returned to the machine.
If a competent individual is now available while this working arrangement is implemented. You must reintroduce Modified working arrangement A.
Opening and closing of signal box
Note: For the purpose of this regulation, A, B and C represent three signal boxes on the same line of route. Signal box B is to open and close.
Opening of signal box
To open the signal box, you must send opening of signal box to signal box A and signal box C. You must then test the token instrument for the line concerned. If you are just changing duties with another signaller, you need not to perform this regulation.
Closing of signal box
You must not close the signal box or leave duty until you have received train out of section for the last train to be signalled through each section and you have sent closing of signal box (7-5-5) to both signal box A and signal box C. You also must ensure the closing of signal box has been acknowledged by both the signallers at signal box A and signal box C.
If you are just changing duties with another signaller, you need not to perform this regulation.
Signal Box Information
See this page for more information.
Special Signal Box Instructions
These instructions are provided to signaller at a specific signal box to aid with regulations or for the purposes of safety.
The signallers signalling a listed signal boxes below should read and remember the special instructions provided.
Benyhone loop signal box
Special Instructions to signallers at Benyhone loop signal box.
- Method of working
The electric token block system applies on the single line toward Fanory mill signal box, One train working system applies on the single line toward llanfairpwll (Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch).
- Track circuits
Track circuits are not provided at Benyhone loop signal box, signallers must kept train within their view if the train are to be held at red signal.
- Other instructions
You are allowed to clear all stop signals up to llanfairpwll, even when the train hasn't come close to it.
You must instruct the driver going toward llanfairpwll to ask for your permission once they are at llanfairpwll, before returning back to Benyhone loop.
Once permission is given for train to return to Benyhone loop, you may request ‘is line clear’ to Fanory mill.
If the token is lost, you must implement one of the modified working arrangement listed in “Electric token block regulation - If the token is lost”.
Fanory Mill Signal Box
Special Instructions to signallers at Fanory mill signal box.
- Method of working
The electric token block system applies on the single line toward Benyhone loop while Absolute Block system applies on the single line toward Satus.
- Permissive Working
Permissive working - Full use only for Class 1, 2, 3, 5, 9 and 0 is permitted on all platforms. (PP)
With Exception to Class 43 HST.
- Token handling
Only you (the signaller) are to be the one allowed to handle token to the driver, however when necessary you are allowed to specially appoint a person to exchange the token to the driver. You may only do this if you believe it is necessary to do this.
You must come to a clear understanding with the person specially appointed to perform token exchange before allowing them to handle tokens.
- Narmouth level crossing and the tram line
The tram line may not be accessed by trains unless they are specially allowed by a staff member. (In which case, point 17 can be moved)
The staff member will use a special hidden button to lift one crossing barrier and activate special signs to indicate a tram line move.
No electric trains are allowed to access the tram line because it is not electrified in any way.
- Other Instructions
Trains leaving the siding must either be sent as an “Empty coaching stock” or must be shunted into the platform. (See Absolute Block regulations - ‘shunting into forward section’)
If a dispatcher is on duty at the platforms, you must wait for their TRTS before sending any trains out of the platform. Trains on the platform hold priority over trains inside the siding.
If the token is lost, you must implement one of the modified working arrangements listed in “Electric token block regulation - If the token is lost”.
Satus Signal Box
Special instructions to Signallers at Satus signal box.
- Method of working
Absolute Block system applies on both line toward Fanory mill signal box and Dovedale east signalling centre.
- Permissive Working
Permissive working - Contingency only for Class 1, 2, 3, 5, 9 and 0 is permitted on all platforms. (PP-C)
With exception to Class 43 HST.
- Satus Ground Frames and siding
Any trains except electric trains may access Satus sidings, if a train wishes to access Satus siding. You must appoint a competent person to operate the siding ground frames. You must come to a clear understanding with the ground frames operator before letting a movement in. (See General Signalling Regulations - Ground frames)
No electric train may access the siding as it is not electrified.
- Other instructions
-
Dovedale East Signalling Centre
Special instructions to signallers at Dovedale East Signalling Centre.
- Method of working
Absolute Block system applies on both line toward Satus signal box and Dovedale Central Signal box.
- Permissive Working
Permissive working - Platform Sharing only for Class 1, 2, 3, 5 and 9 is permitted on all platforms. (PP-S)
With Exception to Class 43 HST.
- Accepting ‘is line clear’ from Satus.
You may only accept ‘is line clear’ from satus once point 1 is normalised.
If the train is scheduled to the SLS yard or to terminate at DE then you need not to follow this instruction.
- Accepting ‘is line clear’ from Dovedale Central.
Given the short block section between Dovedale East box and Dovedale Central box. You may only accept ‘is line clear’ IF the line from Signal G1-4 is clear up to Signal E1-4, the Dovedale East Level crossing must also be lowered.
- SLS yard and ground frames
Any trains except electric trains are allowed to access the SLS yard.
If the SLS General manager and above are on duty[3] at the time. Then you must obtain their permission before letting train into the SLS yard.
Before you’re allowed to release SLS yard ground frames, you must appoint a competent person to operate the ground frames. Only a staff member may be appointed to operate the SLS yard ground frames.
You must come to a clear understanding with the ground frames operator before doing any movement. (See General signalling regulations - Ground frames)
You must instruct the ground frames operator to wait for the train to stop at A1/B1 before clearing the signal into the yard.
- Other Instructions
You must enforce approach release working (See General signalling regulations - Working signalling equipment) when sending trains over diverging junctions with 15mph speed limit and on the crossover with exception being 10a 10b crossover.
You must make sure to use the terminus indicator at the Signal box.
Dovedale Central signal box
Special instructions to signallers at Dovedale Central signal box.
- Method of working
Absolute Block system applies on both line toward Dovedale East Signalling Centre and Marigot Crossing Signal box.
- Permissive Working
Dovedale Central - Permissive working - full use for Class 1, 2, 3, 5, 9 and 0 is permitted on all platforms. (PP)
Gleethrop end - Permissive Working full use for Class 1, 2, 3, 5, 9 and 0 is permitted on all platforms. (PP)
With Exception to Class 43 HST.
- Accepting ‘is line clear’ from Dovedale East
Before accepting ‘is line clear’ from Dovedale East box you must ensure that the line from the home signal up to the through platform starter signals or the terminating platform buffer is clear.
- Sending train entering section
Due to the signal box position, you are allowed to send Train entering section once train has passed these following locations;
- Through platform 1, 3, 4. (Signal DC 32, 34, 39.)
- All terminating platforms starter signal (The line must be clear up to the section signal and line clear must be given)
- Signal DC 22 and DC 38 once they are cleared, (if a train was standing at this location)
- Sending train out of section
Due to the signal box position, you do not need to view tail lamp for trains arriving from Marigot Crossing signal box. You may send Train out of section once you can see that the train is completed with their respective carriages from the signal box. If the train does not seem complete, then you must bell Train arrived without a tail lamp. (See Absolute Block regulations - Train passed without tail lamp)
- Perthtyne Branch
One Train Working system applies on the Perthtyne branch.
No electric trains are allowed to enter Perthtyne branch and must be turned around at Gleethrop end.
- Other instructions
If a dispatcher is on duty at the platforms, you must wait for their TRTS before sending any trains out of the platform. Trains on the through platform hold priority over trains inside the terminating platform.
If Marigot crossing signal box is off-duty you are allowed to implement a temporary telephone working arrangement with Masonfield signal box, in which case you must come to a clear understanding of how this temporary working arrangement is implemented.
Marigot Crossing signal box
Special instructions to signallers at Marigot Crossing signal box.
- Method of working
Absolute Block system applies on both line toward Dovedale Central Signal box and Masonfield Signal box.
- Alternative working arrangement
Given the unreliable nature of the track circuits at this signal box.
You are allowed to implement an alternative method of working using exclusively bells and block instruments while leaving every signal to clear.
You must, however, close the crossing as soon as you receive Train entering section from either Masonfield box or Dovedale Central box.
- Other instructions
For the purpose of regulation you must bell a class 1 express train ‘is line clear’ toward Dovedale Central early, even before you receive ‘train entering section’ from Masonfield. You must do the same for an express train from Dovedale Central direction.
Masonfield Signal box
Special instructions to signallers at Masonfield signal box.
- Method of working
Absolute Block system applies on both line toward and from Marigot Crossing box.
- Permissive Working
Permissive working - Platform Sharing only for Class 1, 2, 3, 5, 9 and 0 is permitted on all platforms. (PP-S)
With exception to Class 43 HST.
- Accepting ‘is line clear’ from Marigot Crossing box.
Before you can accept ‘is line clear’ from Marigot Crossing, you must ensure that the line from the home signal up to the terminating platform or the through platform is clear. Masonfield level crossing must also be lowered and proved clear before ‘is line clear’ is given.
- Regulating trains at Masonfield platform
Trains that were terminated at Masonfield will hold higher priority over trains coming from the siding. If a dispatcher is on duty at the platforms, you must wait for their TRTS before sending any trains out of the platform.
You must avoid sending through train to Platform 4 as it is a terminating platform.
- Trap points and catch points
Trap points and catch points must remain normalised unless a train needs to traverse over them. (See General signalling regulations - working of points)
- The bridge line
Single line working system applies on this line toward the bridge. You must only use this part of the line, you must not send trains toward the bridge outside of lines in the square.
- Other instructions
You must avoid holding trains at a shunt signal within the siding, with exception being Signal SH17 and SH18 unless necessary due to high spad risk.
If a train needs to use the crossover toward the bridge, you must not clear SH11, 10 and SH9.
References
- ↑ Some types, classifications and bell signals are cut from this list as they do not exist in game. These will be added should trains of that class be added to the game.
- ↑ Approach release - Signal automatically clear once a train has approached close to it.
- ↑ On duty is defined as being online in the server