On American trains, do the crews on the head end still call the signal aspects and switch points ?

Question

Our volunteer rail outfit operates only in yard limits at restricted speed, so I and the engineer call the switch points and signal aspects back and forth. Is this done on the class 1 roads as well ? I wonder if we are more inclined to follow this proceedure because we don't mark up everyday and in spite of having FRA rules certification/rules classes - we are still amatures...very careful amatures I would add.

Answer 1

I've been with a class I for about a year and a half now and was able to get on the mainline after working in the yard for a while after training.  Yes we do call signals and switches if we're going out to work industries.  When working the main line, depending where we are we do the same, but also announce it over the radio so everyone else knows where we are also or get a hold of the dispatcher for permission.  Safety is a big part in working around  this heavy equipment so keep up the good work.

Answer 2

It is required by the rules that all signals be called as soon as becoming visible or audible.  In addition, the helper engineer (if any) is to be alerted as well.

In practice, "proceed" indications are not usually called unless moving at restricted speed and the signal comes into view, such as around a corner.  It is usually called when running in fog as well as snowy conditions or any other weather that reduces visibility.  Snow will pack in under the hood of search-light type signals, obscuring the lens and making it difficult to see the signal aspect.

Most crews call all signals displaying a restrictive aspect, including flags for temporary speed restrictions and speed boards.

Switch point positions in yards are not usually communicated unless the switch is lined against the movement or, when on main track involves a move over a controlled switch, not in hand-throw, when passing a controlled signal displaying a stop indication, or when instructed by the dispatcher to take the switch in hand-throw.