GCOR Flashcards

Question

5.8.2 Sounding Whistle (5 Questions) The whistle may be used at anytime as a warning regardless of any whistle prohibitions. When other employees are working in the immediate area, sound the required whistle signal before moving. Other forms of communications may be used in place of whistle signals, except signals (1), (7), and (8). The required whistle signals are illustrated by “o” for short sounds and “—” for longer sounds: Whistle signal (1) (Succession of short sounds) Use when persons or livestock are on the track at other than road crossings at grade. In addition, use to warn railroad employees when an emergency exists, such as a derailment. When crews on other trains hear this signal, they must stop until it is safe to proceed.

Answer 1

5.8.2 Sounding Whistle (5 Questions) The whistle may be used at anytime as a warning regardless of any whistle prohibitions. When other employees are working in the immediate area, sound the required whistle signal before moving. Other forms of communications may be used in place of whistle signals, except signals (1), (7), and (8). The required whistle signals are illustrated by “o” for short sounds and “—” for longer sounds: Whistle signal (1) (Succession of short sounds) Use when persons or livestock are on the track at other than road crossings at grade. In addition, use to warn railroad employees when an emergency exists, such as a derailment. When crews on other trains hear this signal, they must stop until it is safe to proceed.

Answer 2

5.8.2 Sounding Whistle (5 Questions) The whistle may be used at anytime as a warning regardless of any whistle prohibitions. When other employees are working in the immediate area, sound the required whistle signal before moving. Other forms of communications may be used in place of whistle signals, except signals (1), (7), and (8). The required whistle signals are illustrated by “o” for short sounds and “—” for longer sounds: Whistle signal (7) (— — o —) When approaching public crossings at grade with the engine in front, sound signal as follows: A. At speeds in excess of 45 MPH, start signal at or about the crossing sign but not more than 1/4 mile before the crossing. B. At speeds of 45 MPH or less, start signal at least 15 seconds, but not more than 20 seconds, before entering the crossing. C. If no crossing sign start signal at least 15 seconds, but not more than 20 seconds before entering crossing but not more than 1/4 mile before the crossing. Prolong or repeat signal until the engine completely occupies the crossing(s).

Answer 3

5.8.2 Sounding Whistle (5 Questions) The whistle may be used at anytime as a warning regardless of any whistle prohibitions. When other employees are working in the immediate area, sound the required whistle signal before moving. Other forms of communications may be used in place of whistle signals, except signals (1), (7), and (8). The required whistle signals are illustrated by “o” for short sounds and “—” for longer sounds: Whistle signal (8) (— o) Approaching men or equipment or other individuals on or near the track. Regardless of any whistle prohibitions. After sounding initial warning for men or equipment or other individuals, sound whistle signal (4) intermittently until the head end of train has passed the men or equipment or other individuals.

Answer 4

5.8.3 Whistle Failure If the whistle fails to operate and no other unit can be used as the lead unit, continue movement with the bell ringing continuously. Stop the train before each public crossing, so a crew member on the ground can provide warning until the crossing is occupied, unless: • Crossing gates are in the fully lowered position. or • No traffic is approaching or stopped at the crossing.

Answer 5

5.9.1 Dimming Headlight (When) Approaching public crossings at grade with engine in front, the headlight must be on bright at the crossing sign. If no sign, or if movement begins between sign and crossing, the headlight must be on bright soon enough before the crossing to provide warning. Except when the engine is approaching and passing over a public crossing at grade, dim the headlight during any of the following conditions: 1. At stations and yards where switching is being done. 2. When stopped close behind a train. 3. When stopped on the main track waiting for an approaching train. However, when stopped in block system limits, turn the headlight off at the radio request of the crew of an approaching train, until the head end of the train passes. 4. When approaching and passing the head end of a train at night. 5. At other times to permit passing of hand signals or when the safety of employees requires. 6. When left unattended on a main track in non-signaled territory

Answer 6

5.9.2 Headlight Off Turn the headlight off under either of the following conditions: 1. The train is stopped clear of the main track. 2. The train is left unattended on the main track in block system limit.

Answer 7

5.10.1 Highly Visible Markers Display a highly visible marker at the rear of every train as follows: * From 1 hour before sunset to 1 hour after sunrise. * When weather conditions restrict visibility to less than 1/2 mile. A marker equipped with a functioning photoelectric cell will automatically illuminate at the appropriate time. When an engine is operating without cars or is at the rear of the train, the trailing headlight illuminated on dim may be used as a marker.

Answer 8

5.10.1 Highly Visible Markers Inspection of Marker: When a highly visible marker is required, a qualified employee must inspect it at the initial terminal and at each crew change point. To determine if the marker is functioning properly, the employee will inspect it by observation or by telemetry display in the cab of the engine. The engineer must be informed of the results of the inspection.

Answer 9

5.11 Engine Identifying Number Trains will be identified by initials and engine number, adding the direction when required. When an engine consists of more than one unit or when two or more engines are coupled, the number of one unit only will be illuminated as the identifying number. When practical, use the leading unit. Exception: • On track bulletins that advise about excessive dimension equipment, trains may be identified by train symbol. • On track bulletins and on track warrants that do not convey movement authority, passenger trains may be identified by train symbol.

Answer 10

5.13 Blue Signal Protection of Workmen (2 Questions) A. What a Blue Signal Signifies A blue signal signifies that workmen are on, under, or between rolling equipment and requires that: 1. Rolling equipment must not be coupled to or moved, except as provided in “Movement in Engine Servicing Area” and “Movement in Car Shop Repair Area” of this rule. 2. Rolling equipment must not pass a blue signal on a track protected by the signal. 3. Other rolling equipment must not be placed on the same track so as to block or reduce the view of the blue signal. a. However, rolling equipment may be placed on the same track when it is placed on designated engine servicing area tracks or car shop repair area tracks, or when a derail divides a track into separate working areas. 4. Rolling equipment must not enter a track when a blue signal is displayed at the entrance to the track. - 150 feet from rolling equipment. - 50 feet from rolling equipment in designated engine shop.

Answer 11

5.13 Blue Signal Protection of Workmen (2 Questions) B. How to Provide Protection When workmen are on, under, or between rolling equipment and exposed to potential injury, protection must be provided as follows: On a Main Track. A blue signal must be displayed at each end of the rolling equipment and, if the rolling equipment to be protected includes one or more locomotives, a blue signal must be displayed on the controlling locomotive(s). On Other than a Main Track. One of these three methods of protection or a combination of these methods must be provided: 1. Each manually operated switch, including any facing point crossover switch that provides direct access must be lined against movement onto the track and secured by an effective locking device. A blue signal must be placed at or near each such switch.

Answer 12

5.13 Blue Signal Protection of Workmen (2 Questions) C. Blue Signal Readily Visible to Engineer In addition to providing protection as required in “On a Main Track” and “On Other than a Main Track,” when workmen are on, under, or between an engine or rolling equipment coupled to an engine: 1. A blue signal must be attached to the controlling engine and be visible to the engineer or employee controlling the engine. 2. Engines equipped for remote control operations must be in manual. 3. The engine must not be moved. The controls must not be changed unless directed by individuals who placed the blue signal protection.

Answer 13

5.15 Improperly Displayed Signals (2 Questions) If a signal is improperly displayed, or a signal, flag, or sign is absent from the place it is usually shown, regard the signal as displaying the most restrictive indication it can give. However, if a semaphore arm is visible, it will govern. Promptly report improperly displayed signals or absent fixed signals, flags, or signs to the train dispatcher.

Answer 14

6.2 Initiating Movement Before initiating movement on a main track, a crew member must: • Receive a track warrant or general track bulletin. or • Determine from the train dispatcher or yardmaster if any track bulletins are needed.

Answer 15

6.3 Main Track Authorization (To move with the current of traffic) (3 Questions) Do not occupy main tracks unless authorized by one of the following: • Rule 6.13 (Yard Limits). • Rule 6.14 (Restricted Limits). • Rule 6.15 (Block Register Territory). • Rule 9.14 (Movement with the Current of Traffic). • Rule 9.15 (Track Permits). • Rule 10.1 (Authority to Enter CTC Limits). • Rule 14.1 (Authority to Enter TWC Limits). • Rule 14.6 (Movement Against the Current of Traffic). • At manual interlockings, verbal authority from the control operator or a controlled signal that indicates proceed. • Special instructions or general order. When unable to obtain authority and it is necessary to foul or occupy a main track in ABS, protection must be provided in both directions as outlined under Rule 9.17.1 (Signal Protection in ABS by Lining Switch). Written authorities that are no longer in effect must be retained until the end of tour of duty, unless otherwise instructed by the train dispatcher. When a train receives track and time, track warrant or track permit authority joint with an employee or OCS permission joint with an employee, the train must not occupy the overlapping limits until permission is received to enter the overlapping limits from the employees listed on the authority or on the OCS permission.

Answer 16

6.4 Reverse Movements Make reverse movements on any main track, controlled siding, or on any track where a block system is in effect at restricted speed and only within the limits a train has authority to occupy the track.

Answer 17

6.4.1 Permission for Reverse Movements (2 Questions) Obtain permission from the train dispatcher or control operator before making a reverse movement, unless the movement is within the same signaled block. When a train or engine is advised that working limits have been established behind their train, obtain permission from the employee in charge to make any reverse movements, including within the same signaled block. (Permission needed if going beyond signal block..2)

Answer 18

6.5 Shoving Movements (3 Questions) Cars or engines must not be shoved until the engineer knows who is protecting the movement and how protection will be provided. The employee providing protection for the movement shall not engage in any task unrelated to the movement. When cars or engines are shoved, crew member must be in position and provide visual protection unless relieved by: • Local instructions for tracks equipped with shove lights/cameras. • Special instructions specific to tracks involved. • Rule 6.6 (Back Up Movements). • Pullout move within an activated Remote Control Zone (RCZ) Minimum requirements when radio communication is used during shoving movements: • Direction will be described in relationship to the front of the controlling locomotive (F stencil). • To instruct the engineer to move the locomotive forward use “ahead”. • To instruct the engineer to move the locomotive backward use “backup”. • To instruct the engineer to stop, use the word “stop”. • Communicate distance using 50 feet as a standard for one car length. • Engineer must acknowledge the distance, when more than four cars. Movement must be stopped within half of the distance specified unless additional instructions are received. Cars or engines must not be shoved to block other tracks until it is safe to do so. When cars or engines are shoved on a main track or controlled siding in the direction authorized, movement must not exceed: • 20 MPH for freight trains. • 30 MPH for passenger trains. • Maximum timetable speed for snow service unless a higher speed is authorized by the employee in charge.

Answer 19

6.5.1 Remote Control Movements Remote control movements are considered shoving movements, except when the remote control operator controlling the movement is riding the leading engine in the direction of movement. Before initiating movement, the remote control operator or a crew member must be in position to visually observe the direction the equipment moves. Relief of Providing Protection The remote control operator is relieved from providing protection and the requirement to stop within half the range of vision for movements with engine on leading end when: 1. The remote control zone has been activated. 2. Switches/derails are known to be properly lined. 3. Track(s) within the zone are known to be clear of other trains, engines, railroad cars, and men or equipment fouling track. This must be repeated each time the remote control zone is activated.

Answer 20

6.6 Back Up Movements (Picking up a crew member) After obtaining permission from the train dispatcher, a train may back up on any main track or on any track where CTC is in effect under the following conditions: 1. The train dispatcher gives permission to make the movement and verifies the following: a. Another authority is not in effect within the same or overlapping limits unless conflicting movements are protected. b. A track bulletin Form B is not in effect within the same or overlapping limits. c. A main track is not removed from service by a track bulletin within the same or overlapping limits. 2. Movement is limited to the train's authority. a. Exceed the limit of the train’s authority. b. Exceed the train’s length. c. Enter or foul a private or public crossing except as provided by Rule 6.32.1 (Cars Shoved, Kicked or Dropped). d. Movements must be made into or within yard limits, restricted limits, interlocking limits. 3. Movement does not exceed the train's length. Before a crew requests and makes a move under this rule, a job safety briefing between all members of the crew must be conducted that includes: • Confirmation of authority limits. • Location of nearest affected road crossing in direction of movement. • Distance to be shoved. • Confirmation that train is intact, verified either visually or by determining that brake pipe continuity exist using end-of-train device or distributed power telemetry.

Answer 21

6.7 Remote Control Zone A. Entering Remote Control Zone Before entering a remote control zone, all employees that are not part of the remote control crew must determine whether the zone is activated. Employees may receive this information from the remote control operator, other authorized employee, or special instructions.

Answer 22

6.9 Meeting or Passing Precautions A train required to take siding must stop clear of the switch, unless the switch is properly lined to leave the main track. A train standing on the main track to meet an opposing train must, if possible, line the switch for the opposing train to leave the main track. However, within ABS, do not line the switch until the opposing train has entered the block in advance.

Answer 23

6.11 Mandatory Directive (2 Questions) Mandatory directives are written, printed, or displayed authorities or speed restrictions issued by the train dispatcher or control operator. Mandatory directives are: • Track warrants. • Track bulletins. • DTC authority. • Track and time. • Track permits. • Radio speed restrictions. GCOR—Sixth Edition—April 7, 2010 A mandatory directive restricting a train’s movement will not be issued near a point where the restriction applies until the engineer or conductor confirms that the train can comply with the restriction. Indicate “VOID” on mandatory directive form when: • Employee reports clear of authority limits, or • Mandatory directive is made void Crew must retain mandatory directives for continuous tour of duty.

Answer 24

6.13 Yard Limits (4 Questions) Within yard limits, trains or engines are authorized to use the main track not protecting against other trains or engines, only after obtaining a track warrant, listing all track bulletins that affect their movement. Engines must give way as soon as possible to trains as they approach. Engines must keep posted as to the arrival of passenger trains and must not delay them. All movements entering or moving within yard limits must be made at restricted speed unless operating under a block signal indication that is more favorable than Approach. (ABS signal territory) Upon observing or having advance knowledge that a block signal may require restricted speed due to yard limits, if entering or within yard limits, the movement must be at restricted speed at that block signal, or as soon as possible thereafter, consistent with good train handling. Yard limits remain in effect continuously unless otherwise specified by special instructions or track bulletin. Against the Current of Traffic Movements against the current of traffic must not be made unless authorized or protected by track warrant, track bulletin, yardmaster, or other authorized employee. In CTC Territory Where yard limits are in effect in CTC territory, the control operator must authorize any movement on the main track. Reverse movements within the same block may be made as outlined in Rule 6.4.1 (Permission for Reverse Movements). In Track Permit Territory Where yard limits are in effect in Rule 9.15 (Track Permit) territory, all movements must receive permission from the control operator to enter the main track or to cross over from one main track to another as follows: • A controlled signal displays a proceed indication. • A track permit is issued. or • Verbal permission is granted if no track permit is in effect. Rule 9.17 (Entering Main Track at HandOperated or Spring Switch) applies.

Answer 25

6.14 Restricted Limits (2 Questions) Between designated points specified by signs and in the special instructions, trains and engines are authorized to use the main track not protecting against other trains or engines, only after obtaining a track warrant, listing all track bulletins that affect their movement. All movements must be made at restricted speed. (Always) Movements against the current of traffic must not be made unless authorized or protected by track warrant, track bulletin, yardmaster, or other authorized employee.

Answer 26

6.19 Flag Protection A. Flag Protection Not Required Flag protection is not required against following trains on the same track if: 1. Train is within ABS limits and the rear of the train is protected by at least two block signals or one block signal and one distant signal. 2. Rear of the train is within BRT, CTC, DTC, TWC or interlocking limits. or 3. General order or special instructions specify that flag protection is not required.

Answer 27

6.20 Equipment Left on Main Track A. Portion of Train Left on Main Track When necessary to leave a portion of a train temporarily on the main track, follow this procedure: • Set a sufficient number of hand brakes to keep the detached portion from moving. • Provide protection against movements that may enter the main track between the detached portion and the returning front portion unless: - The train dispatcher verbally relieves the protection. or - The return movement is otherwise authorized. • Make return movement at restricted speed. However, an engine without cars may return at a higher speed when governed by block signal indication.

Answer 28

6.23 Emergency Stop or Severe Slack Action (3 Questions) When a train or engine is stopped by an emergency application of the brakes or severe slack action occurs while stopping, take the following actions: Obstruction of Main Track or Controlled Siding If an adjacent main track or controlled siding may be obstructed, immediately: • Warn other trains by radio, stating the exact location and status of the train and repeat as necessary. • Place lighted fusees on adjacent tracks. • Notify the train dispatcher or control operator and, when possible, foreign line railroads if necessary. Warning to other movements is no longer necessary when: • It is known adjacent tracks are not obstructed. or • The train dispatcher or control operator advises the crew that protection is provided on adjacent tracks. Inspection of Cars and Units • All cars, units, equipment, and track must be inspected as outlined in the: - Special Instructions - Air Brake and Train Handling Rules. - Move 5mph to a spot if needed for better place to inspect the train. Visual inspection must ensure no derailment or damage has occurred to cars, units, equipment or track to the end of the train. If physical characteristics such as a bridge with no walkway prevent complete inspection, the train may be moved the distance necessary not exceeding 5 MPH to complete the inspection. Stop movement immediately if excessive power is required to start or keep the train moving and discontinue further inspection until a safe alternative to complete inspection is identified by either a job safety briefing or coordination through the train dispatcher. Exception - The following trains (excluding key trains) are relieved of visual inspection required by emergency brake application if no severe slack action occurred while stopping and brake pipe pressure is restored as indicated by the caboose gauge, end-of train telemetry device (ETD) or distributed power telemetry: • Solid loaded bulk commodity train, • Train consisting entirely of doublestack and/or articulated spine car equipment, • Any train where emergency application occurs above 20 MPH, or • Any train that is 5000 tons or less. Train types in the exception are relieved of further visual inspection after a defect is corrected, such as recoupling an air hose, and brake pipe pressure is restored as indicated by the caboose gauge, end-oftrain telemetry device (ETD) or distributed power telemetry. Train on Adjacent Track A train on an adjacent track that receives radio notification must pass the location specified at restricted speed and stop short of any portion of the stopped train fouling their track. When advised that the track is clear and it is safe to proceed, this restriction no longer applies.

Answer 29

6.25 Movement Against the Current of Traffic (2 Questions) Movements against the current of traffic must be authorized by track bulletin or track warrant, except as provided by: • Rule 6.13 (Yard Limits). • Rule 6.14 (Restricted Limits). • Rule 9.15 (Track Permits). • Rule 9.17.1 (Signal Protection in ABS by Lining Switch). or • Rule 16.1 (Authority to Enter DTC Limits). Movements must approach block and interlocking signals prepared to stop unless: - The track is clear. - Signals indicate proceed. - Switches are properly lined. However, this will not apply at a spring switch outside of interlocking limits, if the train dispatcher has advised the crew that the switch is spiked in the normal position.

Answer 30

6.26 Use of Multiple Main Tracks Multiple main tracks will be designated by name or number. When necessary, track use will be indicated in the special instructions.

Answer 31

6.27 Movement at Restricted Speed ``` When required to move at restricted speed, movement must be made at a speed that allows stopping within half the range of vision short of: • Train. • Engine. • Railroad car. • Men or equipment fouling the track. • Stop signal. or • Derail or switch lined improperly. ``` When a train or engine is required to move at restricted speed, the crew must keep a lookout for broken rail and not exceed 20 MPH. Comply with these requirements until the leading wheels reach a point where movement at restricted speed is no longer required.

Answer 32

6.28 Movement on Other than Main Track ``` Except when moving on a main track or on a track where a block system is in effect, trains or engines must move at a speed that allows them to stop within half the range of vision short of: • Train. • Engine. • Railroad car. • Men or equipment fouling the track. • Stop signal. or • Derail or switch lined improperly. ```

Answer 33

6.29.1 Inspecting Passing Trains (2 Questions) Employees must inspect passing trains. If they detect any of the following conditions, they must notify crew members on the passing train by any available means: • Overheated journals. • Sticking brakes. • Sliding wheels. • Wheels not properly positioned on the rail. • Dragging equipment. • Insecure contents. • Signs of smoke or fire. • Headlight or marker improperly displayed. • Any other dangerous condition. When possible, employees inspecting the passing train must advise crew members of the condition of their train. When possible, a crew member on the engine of the train being inspected must notify a crew member on the rear of the train when the train is being inspected by other employees. Ground Inspections When a train is stopped and is met or passed by another train, crew members must inspect the passing train. The trainman’s inspection must be made from the ground if there is a safe location. • Dismount equipment on the side opposite approaching train. • Do not cross adjacent tracks solely for the purpose of inspecting a passing train. • During inclement weather, crew members may remain in the locomotive cab when inspecting passing trains.

GCOR Flashcards

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