PTS - Personal Track Safety Railway Hazards and Terminology Flashcards

What is 'ballast' in railway engineering?

Answer: The crushed stone layer supporting the sleepers and distributing load

Ballast is the layer of crushed angular stone placed under and around sleepers to distribute the load of trains, drain water, and maintain track geometry.

What is a 'TSR' (Temporary Speed Restriction) and how does it affect track workers?

Answer: A reduced maximum speed imposed on trains passing a specific location, but workers must not rely on it for protection

A TSR reduces the speed of trains passing a location but does not provide protection for track workers — a safe system of work is always required.

What does the term 'formation' refer to in railway construction?

Answer: The prepared earthwork on which the ballast and track are laid

The formation is the prepared earthwork layer — including cuttings, embankments, and sub-grade — on which the ballast layer and track are laid.

What is 'track geometry' and why is it important for safety?

Answer: The measurable parameters of track alignment, level, twist, gauge, and cross-level that determine ride quality and safety

Track geometry refers to measurable parameters including alignment, longitudinal level, cross-level, twist, and gauge. Defects in geometry can cause derailments and affect ride quality.

What is a 'switch' or 'points' in railway terminology?

Answer: A moveable section of track that guides vehicles from one line to another

Points (or switches) are a pair of moveable tapered rails (switch rails) that can be positioned to guide vehicles onto different lines at a junction.

What is the significance of the term 'open line working' for PTS holders?

Answer: Working on or near lines where trains are still running, requiring a safe system of work

Open line working means working on or near railway lines that remain open to train traffic, requiring a formal safe system of work to protect workers.