Train Driver Train 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A train driver sees a yellow (caution) signal aspect. What action should be taken?
- Stop immediately at the signal
- Be prepared to stop at the next signal (Correct answer)
- Accelerate to clear the section quickly
- Ignore it if the track ahead looks clear
Correct answer: Be prepared to stop at the next signal
A single yellow indicates caution, warning the driver the next signal may be at red, so they must be ready to stop.
Question 2: What is the primary purpose of the dead man's switch (driver vigilance device) in a locomotive?
- To sound the horn at crossings
- To stop the train if the driver becomes incapacitated (Correct answer)
- To regulate cabin temperature
- To log the train's speed
Correct answer: To stop the train if the driver becomes incapacitated
The vigilance device applies the brakes automatically if the driver fails to respond, protecting against incapacitation.
Question 3: Before departing a station, what should a train driver confirm regarding the doors?
- That all doors are closed and interlocked (Correct answer)
- That at least one door remains open
- That the doors are unlocked for emergencies
- Nothing, doors are the conductor's sole concern
Correct answer: That all doors are closed and interlocked
The train should not move until all passenger doors are confirmed closed and interlocked for safety.
Question 4: What does a 'PSR' (Permanent Speed Restriction) sign indicate to a driver?
- A temporary work zone speed limit
- A fixed maximum speed for that section of line (Correct answer)
- The platform stopping position
- A request to sound the horn
Correct answer: A fixed maximum speed for that section of line
A permanent speed restriction sets an unchanging maximum speed for that part of the route due to track geometry or other fixed factors.
Question 5: If a driver passes a signal at danger (red) without authority, this is known as what?
- A SPAD (Signal Passed At Danger) (Correct answer)
- A controlled stop
- A blocking move
- A wrong-line movement
Correct answer: A SPAD (Signal Passed At Danger)
Passing a stop signal without authority is a SPAD, a serious safety incident requiring immediate reporting.
Question 6: Why must a driver make a brake test before starting a journey?
- To warm up the brake pads
- To confirm the braking system is functioning correctly (Correct answer)
- To satisfy passenger curiosity
- To reduce wheel wear
Correct answer: To confirm the braking system is functioning correctly
A pre-departure brake test verifies the brakes apply and release properly, which is essential before moving.
Question 7: When approaching a level crossing with a malfunctioning warning system, the driver should:
- Maintain line speed and sound the horn once
- Reduce speed and be prepared to stop, following instructions (Correct answer)
- Stop and abandon the train
- Continue normally as crossings are road users' responsibility
Correct answer: Reduce speed and be prepared to stop, following instructions
A faulty crossing requires caution: reduce speed, sound the horn, and be ready to stop per operating rules.
Train Driver Train 2
A train driver sees a yellow (caution) signal aspect.
What action should be taken?