What do the lights on train tracks mean?
What do the lights on train tracks mean?
All railroads use the common red, yellow, and green aspects, although the indication of the yellow (approach) signal varies from road to road. Many other color combinations are used. Red means stop; green means proceed, and yellow means caution or approach, usually indicating that the next signal is red.
What is an approach signal?
Approach signal: A fixed signal used in connection with one or more other signals to govern the approach to the other signal or signals. (Also called a “distant signal.”) Block: A length of track of defined limits, with block signals or cab signals, or both, to govern its use by trains and engines.
What does a flashing yellow train signal mean?
Flashing yellow is usually telling the engineer to be prepared to stop at the second signal (advance approach). Is there a crossing with another track down the line? If so, the engineer is being advised that the other track may be in use.
What is a searchlight signal?
Searchlight signals arose from the early era of electrified wayside railroad signaling when bright light sources were extremely expensive, high energy consuming, or simply unreliable. The searchlight signal solved this problem by using a single low-power lamp in front of a parabolic reflector.
What do white flags on a train mean?
The white flag indicates that an extra train, one not on the schedule has been temporarily added. The red flag indicates that the train should stop immediately. The green flag indicates that it is clear for a train to proceed. The blue flag indicates that the train can not be moved or coupled to another train.
What is a permissive signal?
permissive signal. A fixed signal that is normally controlled by the passage of rail traffic and its normal indication is a Proceed Authority. A signal that can be passed at STOP without the authority of a Signaller or Special Proceed Authority (SPA) if it is considered safe to do.
What does a flashing red train signal mean?
When you approach a railroad crossing and you see flashing red lights, this means that either a train is on the tracks or a train is approaching. In either instance, you should stop. Not only is it unlawful to cross the tracks while the red light is flashing, it also could prove to be fatal.
What is a lunar signal?
Posted by Rodney Beck on Wednesday, April 5, 2006 12:35 PM. On BNSF a lunar signal is restricting which means proceed at restricted speed not exceeding 20mph, we engineers most often go about 10 mph because we must be able to stop within half the range of vision.
What are the semaphore signals?
The Semaphore flag signaling system is an alphabet signalling system based on the waving of a pair of hand-held flags in a particular pattern. The flags are usually square, red and yellow, divided diagonaly with the red portion in the upper hoist.
