Train Driver Rail Safety and Signages 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does a 'derail' device on a track do?
- Speeds up coupling
- Intentionally guides a moving car off the rails to prevent it entering a main line (Correct answer)
- Cleans the rail head
- Measures axle load
Correct answer: Intentionally guides a moving car off the rails to prevent it entering a main line
A derail deliberately derails equipment to stop unauthorized movement onto a main track.
Question 2: A green signal aspect authorizes the driver to do what?
- Stop at the next station
- Proceed at the authorized line speed (Correct answer)
- Reduce to half speed
- Sound the horn continuously
Correct answer: Proceed at the authorized line speed
A green (clear) aspect permits movement at the maximum authorized speed for the line.
Question 3: What should a driver do upon seeing a hand signal of a red flag waved across the track?
- Increase speed
- Stop the train (Correct answer)
- Continue at caution
- Switch tracks
Correct answer: Stop the train
A waved red flag is an emergency stop signal that must be obeyed immediately.
Question 4: What is the function of a 'fouling point' marker at a switch?
- Marks where the rail is broken
- Indicates the limit beyond which equipment would obstruct the adjacent track (Correct answer)
- Shows the station boundary
- Marks the signal location
Correct answer: Indicates the limit beyond which equipment would obstruct the adjacent track
The fouling point shows how far a car can stand before it interferes with movement on the adjacent track.
Question 5: When approaching a grade crossing with malfunctioning warning devices, the driver should do what?
- Maintain track speed
- Reduce speed and be prepared to stop (Correct answer)
- Sound horn once only
- Switch off the headlight
Correct answer: Reduce speed and be prepared to stop
With faulty crossing protection the driver must slow and be ready to stop for road traffic.
Question 6: What does a temporary speed restriction (TSR) board indicate?
- A permanent new speed limit
- A reduced speed required over a defined stretch, often for track condition (Correct answer)
- End of electrification
- A scheduled stop
Correct answer: A reduced speed required over a defined stretch, often for track condition
A TSR imposes a lower speed over a section, typically due to track work or defects.
Question 7: Why is it important to know the 'sighting distance' of a signal?
- To estimate fuel use
- To ensure there is enough distance to react and stop after first seeing the signal (Correct answer)
- To calculate ticket prices
- To time station announcements
Correct answer: To ensure there is enough distance to react and stop after first seeing the signal
Adequate sighting distance ensures the driver can respond and stop safely after viewing the signal.
Train Driver Rail Safety and Signages 3
What does a 'derail' device on a track do?