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AUTOMATIC BLOCK SIGNAL SYSTEM RULES
Note.—Automatic
Block Signal System is in use on portions
of the railroad and on designated tracks specified in the time-table or
in special instructions.
505. Automatic block signals, cab signals, or both,
govern the use of blocks, but unless otherwise provided, do not supersede
the superiority of trains nor dispense with the use or the observance
of other signals whenever and wherever they may be required.
On any track signaled for traffic in both directions, block signals apply
to trains in the direction of their movement.
On any track signaled for traffic in one direction, block signals apply
only to trains moving with the current of traiiic.
509. When a train is stopped by a Stop indication, if
the indication of the signal does not change it must stay until authorized
by the train dispatcher to proceed, and will then proceed at restricted
speed.
In case of failure of communication or when no means of communication
is provided, train may proceed at restricted speed when preceded by a
flagman to the next Clear or Approach signal.
When the train dispatcher knows there is no opposing train or engine movement
involved, he may verbally authorize the train to proceed in the following
form, "You may proceed at restricted speed to the next signal".
If the train dispatcher does not positively know there is no opposing
train or engine movement involved, he may verbally authorize the train
to proceed in the following form, "You may proceed under flag protection
to the next Clear or Approach signa1".
When flagging from a Stop signal, train must wait ten (10) minutes after
flagman has started.
If the track ahead is seen to be clear through to the next Clear or Approach
signal, train may proceed at restricted speed from the Stop signal without
sending a flagman ahead.
When a flagman has been sent ahead, he must be on the lookout for train,
obstruction, switch not properly lined, broken rail, slide warning device
plug pulled out, or anything that may affect the movement of the train.
Flagman may be picked up, if a point is reached from which track ahead
can be seen to be clear through to the next Clear or Approach signal.
After flagman has been picked up, train must proceed at restricted speed
to the next signal.
S-509. When a train or engine without a brakeman, or
other specifically designated train, is stopped by a Stop indication under
conditions requiring a flagman be sent ahead to comply with Rule 509,
it may proceed at restricted speed to the next Clear or Approach signal
without sending a flagman ahead. Train ` or engine must be moved forward
until leading wheels are one car length past Stop signal, then wait ten
(10) minutes before proceeding.
509 (A). At meeting or passing points, when a train
is stopped under conditions requiring a flagman be sent ahead, if the
engineer is verbally informed by a trainman of a train on siding that
his train has more cars than the siding will hold, the train holding main
track may proceed at restricted speed without sending a flagman ahead.
S-509 (B). When a train is stopped by a Stop-and—proceed
indication at the leaving end of a siding, such indication may be due
to an opposing train proceeding on an approach indication and every precaution
consistent with train rights and the track ahead must be taken before
proceeding.
509 (C). When block signal rules require movement at
restricted speed, this speed must not be increased until after the rear
of the train has passed through the block.
510. When a train or engine is stopped by a block signal
which is evidently out of order, unless otherwise provided, the fact must
be reported to the train dispatcher at the first stop or first open office.
511. Both switches of a cross—over must be open
before a train or engine starts to make a cross-over movement, and the
movement must be completed before either switch is restored to normal
position.
512. Where switch indicators are used, the indications
displayed do not relieve members of a crew from protecting their train
as required by the rules.
513. Before a train or engine enters on or fouls a main
track, or crosses from one main track to another, at any hand operated
switch, including dual control and spring switches when hand operated,
it must wait three (3) minutes after all switches and derails connected
with the movement have been operated.
EXCEPTIONS: Movement may be made to main track without waiting three (3)
minutes, under the following conditions, but employes are not relieved
from the duty of promptly and properly protecting the movement:
(a) On single track if the switches and derails have been changed before
the rear of an opposing train has passed the next signal in the direction
of its movement.
(b) In CTC territory, when movement to main track is authorized by
the control operator.
(c) At points where switches are in charge of an employe assigned to
handle switches, when proceed signal is received from such employe,
who must not give proceed signal until three (3) minutes after switches
have been properly lined.
(d) When signal governing movement to main track displays Clear or
Approach indication.
514. A train or engine entering a block between signals
must be protected as required by the rules and must proceed at restricted
speed to the next signal.
514 (A). A train or engine or cars on siding or other
tracks must stand clear of insulated joints at the clearance point.
When a train or engine enters a siding or other track, the main track
switch must be kept open until the entire train has passed the insulated
joints at the clearance point.
Trains or engines proceeding from sidings or other tracks to the main
track, must remain clear of the insulated joints at the clearance point
on such tracks until the main track switch has been opened.
515. A train or engine having passed beyond the limits
of a block must not back into that block, except under protection as prescribed
by Rule 99 or train order.
516. A train or engine which is to enter a siding or
yard track at a point where the switch to be used is not more than 500
feet beyond an automatic block signal, displaying Stop or Stop- and-proceed
indication, may pass such signal at restricted speed, without stopping,
provided the switch is properly lined, and the track is seen to be clear.
518. Light weight motor trains of three cars or less,
an engine without cars, or cuts of less than four cars, must not stand
on sanded rails on main track.
519. Unless otherwise provided, when a train or engine
has been stopped by a signal governing movement through or over a spring
switch, and signal continues to display Stop indication, or Stop-and-proceed
indication, in addition to complying with rules governing movement from
Stop indication, or Stop-and proceed indication, Rule 104 (B) must be
complied with before proceeding.
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INTERLOCKING RULES
605. Interlocking signals govern the use of the routes
of an interlocking, and as to movement within interlocking limits, their
indications supersede the superiority of trains, but do not dispense with
the use or the observance of other signals whenever and wherever they
may be required.
606. Unless otherwise provided, interlocking signals
located in automatic block signal territory are a part of the automatic
block signal system.
607. EMERGENCY
SIGNALS
(Whistle or Horn)
Note.—The
signals prescribed are `illustrated by "0" for short sounds;
"—" for longer sounds.
SOUND |
INDICATION |
(a) ———————————-
|
All trains and engines within interlocking limits stop immediately. |
(b) o o |
Resume normal movement after receiving the proper signal or permission
from the operator. |
(c) o o o |
Whistle or horn test. |
(d) o o o o |
Call signal maintainer or repairman. |
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OPERATORS
611. Unless otherwise provided, interlocking signals
must be kept in the position displaying the most restrictive indication,
except when displayed for an immediate movement.
612. Appliances must be operated carefully and only
by those charged with that duty. If any irregularity affecting their operation
is detected, the signals must be displayed to give their most restrictive
indication until repairs are made.
613. When the route is set, the signals must be operated
sufficiently in advance of approaching trains to avoid delay.
615. When necessary to change any route for which the
signals have been cleared for an approaching train or engine, switches,
movable point frogs or derails must not be changed or signals cleared
for a conflicting route until the train or engine for which the signals
were iirst cleared has stopped.
616. The lever operating a switch, derail, movable point
frog or lock must not be moved when any portion of a train or engine is
standing on or closely approaching the switch, derail or movable point
frog.
617. Operating levers must be blocked or marked and
should not be used when a track, switch or signal is undergoing repairs
or when a track is obstructed.
618. At mechanical interlockings, during cold weather,
the levers must be moved as often as may be necessary to keep connections
from freezing.
619. If the force whose duty it is to keep switches
clear when snow or sand is drifting is not on hand when required, the
fact must be reported to the superintendent.
620. If a signal fails to work properly, its operation
must be discontinued and until repaired the signal secured so as to display
its most restrictive indication.
621. Operators must observe, as far as practicable,
whether the indications of the signals correspond with the position of
the levers.
622. Operators must not make nor permit any unauthorized
repairs, alterations or additions to the interlocking.
Any defects in the interlocking must be promptly reported to the superintendent.
623. If there is a derailment or if a switch, movable
point frog or derail is run through, or if any damage occurs to the track
or interlocking, the signals must be restored so as to display their most
restrictive indication, and no movement permitted until all parts of the
inter- locking and track liable to consequent damage have been examined
and are known to be in a safe condition.
624. When necessary to disconnect a switch, movable
point frog, derail, facing point lock or electric locking circuits, before
any train or engine is permitted to pass over them, all switches, movable
point frogs and derails affected must be securely spiked or fastened in
the required position and the levers blocked or marked in such a manner
that they cannot be operated.
625. When switches, movable point frogs, derails or
signals are undergoing repairs, Stop indication must be displayed for
any movement which may be affected by such repairs, until it has been
ascertained from the repairman that the switches, movable point frogs
and derails are properly lined for such movement.
626. Operators must, as far as practicable, observe
all passing trains and note whether they are complete and in order; should
there be any indication of conditions endangering the train, or any other
train, the operator must take such measures for the protection of trains
as may be practicable.
628. Hand signals must not be used when the proper indication
can be displayed by the interlocking signals.
629. If necessary to authorize a train or engine to
pass an interlocking signal indicating Stop, hand signal or permission
may be given by the operator. Such occurrence must be reported to the
superintendent.
Hand signals must not be given until the route has been examined, is known
to be safe for the passage of trains, and until after the train comes
to a stop at the home signal. Operator will then give hand signal from
the center of the track on which the train movement is to be made, using
a yellow Hag by day or yellow light by night.
When more than one train is in sight and confusion may result, hand signal
must be given from a point where it cannot be misunderstood.
629 (A). At interlockings where distances make it impracticable
for operator to examine routes and give hand signals, trainman must begoverned
by instructions from operator, examine route and operate switches by hand
as required, before proceeding.
630. Operators are responsible for the care of the interlocking
station, lamps and supplies.
631. Lights in interlocking stations must be so placed
that they cannot be seen from approaching trains.
633. If a train or engine over-runs a Stop indication,
the fact must be reported to the superintendent.
634. Operators must not permit unauthorized persons
to enter the interlocking station.
635. During a stated period, an interlocking station
may be closed upon authority of the superintendent.
When so closed, switches and switch levers must be secured for routes
that do not conflict, and signal levers placed in position so that signals
will display the proper indication.
The interlocking station must be securely locked.
637. When it is safe to do so, switches and signals
may be operated on the request of sectionmen, signalmen, maintainers or
inspectors.
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ENGINE AND TRAIN CREWS
661. If a signal indication permitting a train or engine
to proceed, after being accepted, is changed to a Stop indication before
it is reached, the stop must be made at once. Such occurrence must be
reported to the superintendent.
663. After stopping, train or engine may pass an interlocking
signal indicating Stop, after receiving a hand signal from the operator
given with a yellow fag by day or a yellow light by night, from the center
of the track on which the movement is to be made.
At interlockings where distances make it impracticable for operator to
examine routes and give hand signals, trainman must be governed by instructions
from operator, and must examine route and operate switches by hand as
required, before proceeding.
Movement on hand signal or permission of the operator must be made at
restricted speed.
In automatic block signal territory, when the interlocking signal governs
the block beyond the interlocking limits, movement must be made at restricted
speed through the entire block.
669. Trains or engines stopped by the operator in making
a movement through an interlocking, must not move in either direction
until they have received the proper signal from him.
670. A reverse movement within the limits of an interlocking,
or a forward movement after making a reverse movement, must not be made
without the proper interlocking signal indication or permission from the
operator.
671. While an interlocking station is closed, should
a signal for an open route indicate Stop, movements through the interlocking
must be preceded by a flagman. Before proceeding, the engineer and trainmen
must know the route is properly lined.
In addition, if the interlocking governs movement over a drawbridge, engineer
or trainmen must ascertain if bridge is in proper position for passage
of a train.
The facts must be reported to the superintendent from the first available
point of communication.
672. When a train or engine is stopped by the Stop indication
of an automatic interlocking signal, and no immediate conflicting movement
is evident, a member of the crew must operate the time release.
If signal does not change its indication at expiration of time release
interval, train or engine may then proceed on hand signal from a member
of the crew at the crossing if there is no train or engine approaching
on conflicting routes.
If a train or engine is approaching on a conflicting route, hand proceed
signal must not be given until such movement has been completed over the
crossing, or has come to a stop at the governing home signal.
If a train or engine is standing between the home signals on a conflicting
route, the proceed signal must not be given until after a thorough understanding
has been had with the crew of — the train or engine on the conflicting
route. Where smash—boards are in use, instructions for hand operation
are posted in release box.
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ADDITIONAL GENERAL RULES
700. Carelessness of a person’s own safety or
that of others is prohibited.
Employes will not be retained in the service who are careless of the safety
of themselves or others, insubordinate, dishonest, immoral, quarrelsome
or otherwise vicious, or who do not conduct themselves in such a manner
that the railroad will not be subjected to criticism and loss of good
will, or who do not meet their personal obligations.
701. Courteous conduct is required of all employes in
their dealings with the public, their subordinates and each other. Boisterous,
profane or vulgar language is forbidden.
Playing practical jokes, scuffling, wrestling or lighting while on duty
or on company property, as well as throwing of tools or material, is prohibited.
»
Employes must not enter into altercation with any person, regardless of
provocation, but will make note of the facts and report such incident
in writing to their immediate superior.
702. Employes must be alert and devote themselves exclusively
to the company’s service, attend to their duties during the hours
prescribed, reside where required by the management, and comply with the
instructions from the proper authority in matters pertaining to their
respective branches of the service. They must not absent themselves from
duty, exchange duties with or substitute others in their place, nor engage
in other business without proper authority.
An employe subject to call must not absent himself from his usual calling
place without notice to those required to call him.
The reading of newspapers, books or periodicals, or the playing of games
while on duty is prohibited.
702 (A). Each employe governed by Hours of Service Law
must notify the proper officer of the time the law requires him to be
off duty early enough so that he may be relieved, if necessary, before
exceeding the hours of service permitted by law.
703. Employes must not disclose information regarding
the affairs of the railroad to any person except to authorized officers
or to persons authorized by law to receive it. They must not permit unauthorized
persons to have access to books, waybills or other statistics in their
charge.
704. Employes must exercise care and economy in the
use of railroad property, and when leaving the service, or upon demand
by proper authority, must return property entrusted to their care.
705. Unless specially authorized, employes ‘ must
not use the railroad’s credit and must neither receive nor pay out
money on the rail- road account. Property of the railroad must not be
sold nor in any way disposed of without proper authority. All articles
of value found on railroad property must be cared for and promptly reported.
706. The telegraph or telephone must not be used when
mail will answer the purpose. Messages must be briefly worded and confined
to railroad business.
Letters of a personal nature must not be sent by railroad mail.
707. Railroad premises must be kept in a safe, clean
and orderly condition.
708. Employes are prohibited from altering, nullifying,
changing design of, or in any manner restricting or interfering with the
normal intended function of any device or equipment on engines, cars or
other railroad property without proper authority except in case of emergency,
in which case wire report must be made to proper officer.
708 (A). Employes are prohibited from having loaded
or unloaded firearms in their possession while on duty except those employes
authorized to do so in the performance of their duties or those given
special permission by the superintendent.
709. No persons, except employes in discharge of their
duties, or officers in line of duty, will be permitted to ride on an engine
or in a baggage, mail or express car, or on a track car, without a written
order from the proper authority.
709 (A). When necessary for trainmen to ride in cab
of trailing unit, they must not tamper with any of the switches or valves
nor place feet on dashboard or windshield.
710. Passengers will not be carried on freight trains
except as authorized by timetable or special instructions, or as otherwise
authorized. Trainmen must warn passengers about the hazard of injury in
starting and stopping and request they remain seated while train is moving.
711. Before stopping for meals, the conductor or engineer
must notify the train dispatcher sufficiently in advance to avoid delay
to their train or other trains.
712. Employes must observe rules for other classes of
employes that relate in any way to the proper discharge of their own duties
or the safety of operation.
713. Employes must observe trains closely and if anything
unusual or defective is noted, such as hot journal, brakes sticking, dragging
brake rigging, sliding wheels, indications of fire, lading shifted over
side or end of car, protruding objects, swinging car door, or any other
dangerous condition, they must make every effort to call the attention
of the crew on the train to such conditions. If train is moving, stop
signal must be given. Train dispatcher must be notified at once if unable
to stop train.
When meeting or passing other trains, and when passing stations and points
where trackmen or other employes are working, members of the crew on moving
trains must be on the lookout for signals and take immediate action when
necessary.
713 (A). When a train is stopped to be met or passed
by another train, crew of standing train must inspect passing train. When
safe to do so, forward trainman must cross track and inspect passing train
from the farther side and rear trainman or conductor must inspect the
passing train from side nearest his own train.
713 (B). Unless directed otherwise by the train dispatcher,
agent or operator must be on station platform to inspect passing trains
and must have fusee in his possession to give stop signals if necessary.
At night a white light must be used in exchanging signals with crews of
such trains.
713 (C). In departing from stations, and at every opportunity
on the road, members of the crew must carefully inspect their train, especially
while rounding curves, to observe train for defects. If train is moving
when defect is discovered, train must be stopped. If possible, defects
should be remedied, but if this cannot be done and if car is unsafe to
run, it must be set out and the train dispatcher notified.
When car is set out account hot box, packing must be removed and fire
extinguished. In addition, it must be ascertained that there is no fire
on car body, and that dust guard is not burning nor smouldering, taking
whatever action is necessary before car is left, to eliminate the possibility
of fire.
In starting freight trains, the speed for the first train length must
be such as will permit full inspection by the train crew, and permit them
to safely board the train.
When practicable, while train is moving, frequent inspection must be made
of track from rear of train.
714. Employes on a train must be alert to prevent being
struck by objects which may protrude or fall from their train, or trains
or cars on adjacent tracks; also wayside signals and mail cranes, and
be on lookout for other impaired clearances.
715. When trains or engines are passing, employes must
not remain near the track where they are liable to be struck by coal,
stone, car doors or other objects which may protrude or fall from engines
or cars.
716. Turntables not under immediate supervision of an
employe must be kept locked.
717. When persons who are evidently intoxicated, ill
or in any other condition making them unfit to care for themselves, are
seen in a position of danger in the vicinity of tracks or stations, they
should be guarded from approaching trains and engines, and when unable
to remove them to a place of safety, the proper
authorities must be notified.
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ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES
718. In an emergency, or in case of obstruction by accident
or other cause, the employe upon whom the responsibility most naturally
falls must assume authority until the arrival of an OHICGT, and must at
once report conditions and make suggestions as to forces, material and
equipment required.
In case of damage to trains or structures wherein the security of company
property or freight is involved, watchmen must be immediately stationed
and arrangements ‘made promptly for the protection of such property
against theft, or loss from other causes.
719. Whenever passengers or employes are injured, everything
possible must be done to care for them properly. If they are able to be
moved, they must be taken for treatment to the nearest place at which
the company has a surgeon. If the case is urgent and the company surgeon
cannot be immediately procured, the conductor, agent or officer in charge
is authorized to call the nearest surgeon available to administer first
aid and care for the patient until the company surgeon can take charge
of the case.
719 (A). In case of serious accident to trains, conductors,
after making everything safe, must give their undivided attention to the
care and comfort of their passengers, especially to those who are injured.
Bedding and linen may be taken from sleepers for this purpose, the conductor
arranging with sleeping car employes to keep account of all material so
taken. When necessary, injured persons may be put in the sleepers.
Quick action is especially imperative in cases of serious injury and particularly
so in connection with accidents to passenger trains wherein any passengers
thereon are injured.
When a number of persons are injured, the services of competent surgeons,
preferably company surgeons in the vicinity, should be secured at once.
719 (B). In case of injuries to trespassers or others,
injured person or persons must be taken to nearest station, when possible,
and either placed in the care of relatives or friends, or in the charge
of the local county, city or village authorities. Necessary medical attention
should be arranged with the distinct understanding that no expense, other
than necessary first aid, will be assumed by the company without specific
authority from either the superintendent or general claim department.
720. In case of death on a train, the body should be
taken to the next station where se1•vices of an undertaker are available,
and superintendent notified immediately.
In case of death on company property, or when a corpse is found thereon,
after exact position of body and surrounding conditions have been carefully
noted, body should be moved to give clear passage for trains. An employe
or other responsible person must be left in charge until coroner or undertaker
arrives and superintendent notified immediately.
In all cases, the proper public officer must be notified promptly and
a wire report must be made to superintendent.
721. Conductors in charge of trains carrying passengers
must have supply of prescribed forms for taking names of passengers on
trains involved in an accident. One of these forms should be completely
filled out for each passenger on train, whether or not passenger claims
conductor’s duties immediately following the accident are such as
to prevent his obtaining these, he should delegate a trainman or some
other available employe on train to procure them. These should be turned
over to the claim agent, as soon as he boards train, or to the superintendent
at destination, if not picked up by the claim agent.
721 (A). In case of personal injury, loss of life, or
damage to property in which a train or any of its passengers is involved,
the conductor must immediately secure the names, addresses and occupations
of all persons involved, including all persons at the scene when the accident
occurred and those arriving soon thereafter, regardless of whether these
persons admit knowing anything about the accident. License numbers of
automobiles nearby must be obtained. This information obtained with the
assistance of other employes when necessary, should be included in reports
made covering such occurrences.
Where signalling devices are provided, or crossing watchmen or flagmen
are on duty, a special effort should be made to determine who, among the
witnesses, can testify whether the signalling devices were functioning
properly or if the crossing watchman or flagman was properly performing
his duty. Names of witnesses who can testify relative to bell and whistle
signals must be obtained when possible to do so.
722. In cases where persons or vehicles are struck and
injured or damaged by trains or engines on crossings in the vicinity of
stations, the person in charge at point where accident occurred will immediately,
with the assistance, if possible, of one or two disinterested persons
not connected with the company, locate on a rough sketch and show by actual
measurement the position of all cars standing on tracks at or near the
crossing, and send report to the superintendent, describing the cars,
giving the initials and number of each and their location with reference
to the crossing where the accident occurred.
723. All accidents resulting in injuries to employes
when on duty, and off—duty accidents where they occur on railway
premises, and all accidents to persons other than employes occurring on
railway property, regardless of the extent of injuries, and all accidents
resulting in property damage must be promptly reported to the superintendent.
724. All equipment such as cars, engines, machinery
or tools, etc., also premises involved in accidents resulting in personal
injuries, should be promptly inspected by the foreman or other person
in charge of the work or by other competent inspectors, to ascertain the
condition of same. A report of such inspection, stating the conditions
found and name or names of the persons making the inspection, should be
promptly forwarded to the superior officer of the person making the inspection.
When tools, machinery or other types of equipment or appliances are involved
in an accident resulting in personal injury, they should, if at all possible,
be marked for identification and placed in custody of some responsible
officer or employe and held subject to the order of the general claim
department or the superintendent, regardless of whether or not inspection
reveals any defect therein.
725. When engines, cars or other rolling stock are involved
in an accident resulting in personal injury, such inspection as can be
made should be made before such equipment leaves the place of accident.
A further inspection should be made at the first terminal by at least
two competent employes, preferably by car inspector, car foreman or master
mechanic.
Report of the result of this inspection should be promptly forwarded through
the proper channels to the superintendent and by him transmitted to the
general claim department.
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FIRE AND EXPLOSIVES
726. Every precaution must be taken to prevent loss
and damage by fire. The rules and instructions governing prevention and
fire protection must be fully complied with.
The cause of a fire must be ascertained, if possible, and promptly reported
by wire to the superintendent.
Buildings and structures must be kept free of refuse. Oily clothing or
waste must not be stored in lockers. Stove pipe and flues must be kept
in safe condition. Matches must be kept in proper receptacles.
726 (A). Employes must report at first opportunity the
presence of fires on or near right of way, unless fire is being controlled
by other employes. In case of danger of fire spreading to a bridge or
other structure, train must be stopped and crew assist in extinguishing
fire.
The conductor must promptly notify his engineer of fires which may have
been started by their engine and require an inspection of the fire prevention
appliances. Anything that might cause a fire, except lighted fusees, must
not be dropped or thrown from an engine or train.
726 (B). In case of fire in a car containing passengers,
caretakers or employes, the train must be stopped at once. Occupants that
may be in danger must immediately be removed from such car or cars and
prevented from reentering such car. Every effort must be made to extinguish
the fire. After all occupants have been removed to safety, if it is then
found to be impossible to extinguish the fire at the point where train
is stopped, the conductor, if advisable and if it can be done with safety,
will have train, car or cars moved to the nearest available point where
assistance is obtainable.
In case of fire in or between airconditioned passenger cars, immediate
action must be taken to shut off airconditioning blower fans on such cars.
727. Employes must familiarize themselves with the Interstate
Commerce Commission regulations governing the handling and transportation
of explosives and flammables and be governed thereby.
Gunpowder, dynamite, nitroglycerine or other explosives must not be transported
in any car attached to a passenger train except that carload shipments
of explosives may be made by express and handled in passenger trains when
in sealed express cars properly placarded. Such explosives may also be
handled in an express peddler car with messenger in charge when such car
is assigned to the handling of express and baggage exclusively.
Motion picture film must not be carried in any car in which passengers
are carried, except when being transported as baggage or express in accordance
with the provisions of Interstate Commerce Commission, Bureau of Safety
regulations, or as United States Mail, as provided for in Postal laws
and regulations.
Cars placarded “explosives" must be handled with care and
as little as possible. They must not be cut off while in motion and permitted
to strike another car nor may other cars be cut off and permitted to strike
them. They must be removed from all danger of fire and must not be placed
in or adjacent to passenger sheds or stations or under bridges. When it
can be avoided, engines on adjacent tracks must not be permitted to stand
opposite or near such cars.
When handling cars containing explosives or flammables, it must be known
that they are in proper place in the train.
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TRAIN AND YARD SERVICE
800. The general direction and government of a train
is in charge of the conductor and all persons employed on the train are
subject to his instructions.
Should there be any doubt as to authority or safety of proceeding, from
any cause, he must consult the engineer and shall be equally responsible
with him for the safety and proper handling of the train, and for such
use of signals and other precautions as the case may require.
He must be vigilant and cautious and must comply with instructions issued
by proper authority.
801. When there is no conductor, or when the conductor
is disabled, the engineer will, unless otherwise directed, have charge
of the train and will be governed by the rules prescribed for conductors.
When the train has more than one engine, the senior engineer in the service
will assume these duties.
802. Where yardmasters are employed, employes in yard,
train and engine service must comply with instructions of yardmasters.
Where no yardmaster is employed, they will be governed by instructions
of agents in doing work at stations.
803. Members of train and engine crews must observe
the indication displayed by train order signals, be prepared to and pick
up any train orders or messages, keep a sharp lookout for signals displayed
by other trains, and keep in mind the requirements of time-table, train
orders, special instructions, bulletins and messages affecting the movement
of their train, and must call attention to or take necessary action in
event of any oversight or mistake. Other members of the crew in cab of
engine must give instant notice to the engineer of any signals or indication
of danger or obstruction, or if there is any reason to believe their train
may strike a person or object on the track.
When conditions or signals require that the train be stopped or speed
of train be reduced and the engineer or conductor fails to take proper
action to do so, or should the engineer become incapacitated, other members
of the crew must take immediate action to stop train.
There must be no failure to keep a careful lookout ahead, especially
while passing through cities, towns and yards.
804. Pile drivers, cranes, derricks or other track or
off-track equipment must not be operated to foul a track while trains
or other movements are passing. Before blocking or fouling any track,
protection in both directions must be provided. Care must be used to avoid
contact with overhead wires.
When trains are seen or known to be closely approaching, trains unloading
ballast or other track material, or operating dozers, spreaders, snow
machinery or similar equipment must stop and be sure adjacent track is
clear and booms or other projecting parts of pile drivers, cranes, derricks
or other similar track or off-track equipment must be secured to clear
adjacent track, and operation stopped.
Derricks or similar machines must not be turned or swung while traveling,
either under their own power or when being handled by an engine, except
where necessary in short moves of less than 100 feet or in closely continuous
travel and work operation.
Before moving a work train, the engine whistle signal 14 ( b) or 14 (h)
must be sounded for protection of men working about the train, and the
operators of cranes, ditchers or similar machines must be notified.
Cars used in transporting men to and from work should be pulled when
practicable.
805. When pile drivers, cranes, derricks, steam shovels
or similar equipment of the swinging or pivoting type are being moved
on their own wheels or on cars, conductor must know that cars are in proper
place in train, with booms properly secured and, when practicable, booms
trailing, and engineer notified. Before such equipment is moved, it must
be inspected and must receive frequent inspection enroute.
When such equipment is loaded on cars, it must be loaded and secured
in strict accordance with A.A.R. loading rules and must be inspected by
competent inspector before being moved and must receive frequent inspection
A enroute. Spreaders and dozers being moved in trains must, when practicable,
be headed in direction train is moving. In all cases wings must be properly
secured.
806. Before coupling to or moving occupied outfit cars,
notice must first be given all occupants, and all ladders and other equipment
cleared before moving.
Occupied outfit cars should be handled immediately ahead of caboose when
practicable. Women or children will not be permitted to ride in such cars
unless authorized by the superintendent.
When occupied outfit cars are set out or taken into yards in trains,
the train dispatcher and the yardmaster must be promptly notified. When
practicable, occupied outfit cars should not be placed adjacent to or
in buildings or structures.
Tracks upon which occupied outfit cars are located should not be used
for meeting or passing trains, if it can be avoided.
806 (A). Open-top or flat cars loaded with pipe, lumber,
poles or other lading which has a tendency to shift, must not be handled
in train next to engine, caboose, occupied outfit cars or passenger cars.
807. A crossing with another railroad at grade must
not be blocked by trains, engines or cars when it can be avoided.
Public crossings must not be blocked longer than necessary and in no
case longer than authorized by instructions or by law.
Cars on any track must be left clear of crossings and so as to not actuate
crossing signals, and a clear passageway must be left to the station.
When necessary to spot cars in the vicinity of public or private crossings,
they must, if practicable, be left a sufficient distance from road, sidewalk
or street line to afford a clear view of approaching trains.
808. When it can be avoided, engines must not stand
within 100 feet of a public crossing, under bridges or viaducts, or in
the vicinity of waiting rooms, telegraph orifices, or near cars which
are occupied by passengers.
809. Except in emergency, cars must not be left on sidings
without authority. The train dispatcher must be immediately notified when
cars are left on sidings.
809 (A). Stored cars, except those of all steel construction,
must be fire-spaced in cuts of ten cars each, 100 feet apart.
810. Before coupling to or moving cars or engines in
a street, or on station or yard tracks, it must be known that cars are
properly secured and that they can be moved with safety.
Before coupling to or moving cars on tracks where cars are being loaded
or unloaded, gangplanks, conveyors, tank couplings, elevator spouts and
similar loading or unloading devices, must be removed and clear for the
movement. All persons in or about the cars must be notified and cars must
not be moved unless movement can be made without endangering anyone. When
such cars are moved, they must be returned to their former location unless
otherwise directed.
810 (A). Care and good judgement must be used in switching
cars to avoid damage to contents and equipment, and it must be known that
necessary couplings are made and that sufficient hand brakes are set.
When switching at stations or in yards where engines may be working at
both ends of the track, movements must be made carefully and an understanding
had with other crews involved.
Cars containing livestock must not be switched unnecessarily or cut off
and allowed to strike other cars.
Passenger equipment or occupied outfit cars must not be switched without
having the air brakes cut in and operative.
810 (B). When switching or placing cars, they must be
left where they will fully clear passing cars on adjacent tracks and where
they will not cause injury to employes riding on the side of cars.
Cars must not be shoved blind or out to foul other tracks unless the movement
is properly protected.
811. Running switches must not be made when practicable
to avoid doing so.
Before making a running switch, all members of the crew must understand
the movement to be made. It must be known that switches and brakes are
in working order. The engine must be run on straight track when practicable.
Running switches must not be made under the following conditions:
With cars containing explosives, flammables or poison gas;
When they involve danger to employes, equipment or contents of cars;
Over or through spring switches or interlockings;
Over or through remote control or dual control switches when the power
is on.
812. Caution and good judgement must be exercised in
starting and stopping trains to void sudden movements which might cause
discomfort or injury to persons or damage to property.
Conductors should call the attention of engineers to any rough handling
as soon as the formation can be given, and will make prompt report to
the superintendent of any improper handling of trains.
813. When cars are left on any track, sufficient hand
brakes must be set to prevent cars moving; if the track is on a grade
and hand brakes are not sufficient, wheels must also be blocked or chained
and, when practicable, cars must be coupled together. In setting brakes
on cars on a grade, brakes must be set on low end of the cut of cars and
slack must be bunched to know cars will stand when engine is cut off.
When necessary to hold or stop cars by the use of hand brakes, it must
be known that brakes are in good order before cutting off cars.
813 (A). Roller bearing equipment must not be left standing
alone on any track unless properly secured. When left standing coupled
to other equipment, sufficient hand brakes must be applied to prevent
them from moving.
814. When doing work at stations where the grade is
such that cars will start if brakes are released, a trainman must be left
in charge of the train while work is being done unless slack is bunched
and train secured by hand brakes.
Before an engine is detached from a train on a grade, a sufficient number
of hand brakes must be applied on the low end of train to hold train;
the air brakes must be released and the slack bunched against cars on
which the hand brakes are applied.
When engine is recoupled to train, hand brakes must not be released until
air brake system is fully recharged.
When shoving train on descending grade, sufficient hand brakes must be
set on low end of train to control slack.
Train must not be left standing unattended on a grade, unless air brakes
are released, slack is bunched and train properly secured by hand brakes.
815. When an engine is stopped in a tunnel under conditions
preventing prompt movement, diesel engines and steam generators must be
shut down promptly.
When such engines are shut down, air brakes must be fully applied and,
in addition, hand brakes must be applied on each unit, and sufficient
hand brakes applied throughout the train to prevent movement should air
brakes leak off.
816. A running test of brakes on a passenger train must
be made, when practicable, two miles from meeting points, junctions, railroad
crossings, drawbridges, and other points where failure of the brakes to
operate properly would result in hazard.
817. Should the air brakes on a train become ineffective,
the train must be stopped and engineer must notify the conductor at once.
If the air brakes are so ineffective as to interfere with the safe handling
of the train, superintendent must be notified. Further movement must be
authorized by the superintendent.
818. Passenger trains must not be backed without suitable
back—up hose or its equivalent, and the conductor or other competent
employe at the rear, and when such back-up hose is to be used, the brakes
must be tested as prescribed by the air brake rules.
819. Trainmen must know by speed of train, grade or
caboose air gauge that train is being handled safely and under control,
and, when necessary, take immediate action to get train under safe control.
820. Except as otherwise provided, employes will be
governed by instructions contained in the current air brake instruction
book issued by their company, covering operation and maintenance of air
brake and air signal apparatus.
840. Where a yardmaster is employed, the general direction
and government of the yard is in his charge. He is responsible for the
proper makeup and movement of trains through the yard, the careful, prompt
and proper handling of cars, compliance with requirements as to the diversion,
refrigeration, ventilation and heating of cars, and for the proper position
and security of all yard switches.
850. Trainmen must report for duty at the appointed
time, and, by personal attention, insure departure of their train at the
required time.
They must see that their trains are provided with proper supplies, tools
and equipment at all times and know that the brakes are in proper working
order.
Conductors must expedite the handling of trains and performance of station
work. If necessary to avoid serious delay, the operator must be called.
851. Conductors must know that their trainmen are familiar
with and perform their duties, and that they properly understand and comply
with the rules and special instructions, particularly those relating to
protection of trains. They must instruct them if necessary and caution
them as to the risks involved. Inefficiency and insubordination must be
reported to the proper authority.
852. When not engaged elsewhere as specifically provided
by the rules, trainmen must occupy the place assigned to them.
On freight trains, unless otherwise provided, the forward trainman must
ride in control cab of engine at front of train.
The flagman must be on the rear car of the train except on a passenger
train when rear car is a business, dining or observation car, he will
ride in car next ahead, and should get on and off at first opening ahead
of such cars.
853. Conductors whose duties require it must be familiar
with and respect current tariffs, rules and instructions of the traffic
department and the requirements of the accounting department.
854. Trainmen must attend to the needs of those in charge
of livestock and other freight, see that cars occupied by them are given
proper attention as to heat and water, and information given as to stops
for meals or change of cars.
Attendants and other passengers authorized to ride on freight trains should
only be permitted to get on or off when train is stopped.
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