Regional Appendix 1960
WORKING OF MULTIPLE-UNIT DIESEL TRAINS
The following instructions will apply in connection with the working of Multiple-Unit Diesel Trains on the Western Region:-
1. These trains are fitted with two-tone warning horns at each end. The two tones must always be sounded when it is necessary to give a warning. For standard or local whistle code purposes the lower note only must be used.
All concerned must warn men employed under their supervision who may be required to work on the permanent way or to walk upon or cross running lines, of the importance of observing the warning, and that they must be prepared for the trains to approach quietly and at high speed. Upon hearing the warning the Driver should be given an acknowledgement whenever possible.
It is important that men engaged on permanent way work etc., shall move promptly to a point of safety upon sighting or receiving audible warning of the approach of a train.
If it is necessary for multiple-unit diesel trains to work over a section of line where they are not normally scheduled to run, or if such diesel trains are to be substituted for steam trains or auto cars over a route normally also used by diesel units, Drivers of such trains must sound the two-note warning horn in accordance with Rule 127 and also when approaching curves, level crossings, barrow crossings, overbridges, Gangers' huts and other buildings adjacent to the line upon which the trains are running. In such cases prior advice must, where possible, be issued to all concerned, particularly permanent way staff, by means of printed or other notice. In emergency, when it is not possible to issue prior notice, the Drivers of such diesel trains must be advised.
2. The speed of trains must not exceed 10 m.p.h. when proceeding along carriage or repair sidings, or sidings in Running & Maintenance Depots. Before entering sheds Drivers must bring their trains to a stand and give a warning signal on the horn to staff who may be at work inside. The speed of trains inside a shed must not exceed 5 m.p.h.
3. In order to improve operating efficiency, arrangements are now being made to erect train stop signs at most stations on routes over which diesel multiple unit trains operate.
These signs will provide drivers with definite visual indications of the position at which diesel multiple unit trains of varying formations are to come to rest. They will be placed not less than 8 ft. above platform level and will consist of 7-in. figures and 2-in. lettering in dark brown on a cream background.
The full range of signs to be made available is :-
| 3-car | 2-car | |
| 6-car | 4-car | |
| 9-car | 8-car |
Drivers must therefore bring their trains to rest with the leading end of the leading vehicle opposite the sign relevant to the length of the train. In cases where more than one indicator is required at the same point, two signs placed one above the other will be provided. If, however, the train is of a formation for which a stop sign is not provided, Drivers must stop at the next highest stop number, e.g. a 4-car set would stop at a " 6-car " sign.
4. Operating Department Staff rostered to attend such trains should ensure that intending passengers are directed to that part of the platform at which the trains will stop, and at the same time place themselves in such a position as to be able to deal with the train immediately it comes to a stand.
5. Instructions relating to the working of Multiple-Unit Diesel Trains during flooding of the line, are shewn on page 89 of this Appendix.
6. Instructions relating to the haulage of " Dead " Multiple Unit stock are shewn on page 96 of the General Appendix.