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Grade Crossing Signals

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  • Member since
    October 2004
  • From: Allen, TX
  • 1,320 posts
Grade Crossing Signals
Posted by cefinkjr on Saturday, October 31, 2015 5:57 PM

I imagine these questions have been asked and answered previously on this forum but I can't seem to find a search so I'll ask again:

1.  I found, in an old (Effective October 28, 1956) New York Central System Rules of the Operating Department, the definition of the standard grade crossing signal (-- -- o --) but was surprised that I did not find a positive statement like "The engine whistle or horn is to be sounded ...".  Would that be in an Employee's Timetable?

2. When approaching a grade crossing that is blocked by a standing train on an adjacent track, is it necessary / required to "blow for the crossing"?  I think I just saw this situation on the Rochelle web cam.  I say "I think I just saw" because I'm not certain that the stopped WB UP train was blocking the first crossing east of the diamonds.  The moving EB blew for the crossing but I was wondering if that was really necessary.     

Chuck
Allen, TX

  • Member since
    March 2005
  • From: Brewster, NY
  • 648 posts
Posted by Dutchrailnut on Saturday, October 31, 2015 6:09 PM

yes a train on other track has to blow its normal sequence cause they really can not see if for example stopped train is split at crossing.

  • Member since
    October 2004
  • From: Allen, TX
  • 1,320 posts
Posted by cefinkjr on Saturday, October 31, 2015 6:14 PM

Dutchrailnut

yes a train on other track has to blow its normal sequence cause they really can not see if for example stopped train is split at crossing.

 
Good reason.  I had forgotten about a train being split at a crossing.

Chuck
Allen, TX

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Winnipeg, Mb
  • 628 posts
Posted by traisessive1 on Saturday, October 31, 2015 9:42 PM

Here in Canada if an employee is standing on the crossing or roadway in a position to stop traffic, the horn does not have to be blown. 

If a train is standing and another train comes along, what is stopping someone from crawling through the stopped train? If the first train is moving I can understand the second train being exempt from the horn.

10000 feet and no dynamics? Today is going to be a good day ... 

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