Derailer Procedures

(b) Observe the following special precautions when handling switches.

Switches (other than spring and automatic switches) shall not be run

through. If a switch is run through, it is unsafe and shall not be used until

inspected and repaired by track maintenance personnel. If a locomotive or

a car partially runs through a switch, the entire movement shall be

continued.

Switches shall be left aligned in accordance with local operating

procedures.

Switch targets will show green when lined for the normal route and red

when lined for the side route. In most cases, the normal route is the route

that keeps the train or locomotive on the main track.

After aligning a main track switch for a train, the crew member attending

the switch shall go to the opposite side of the main track, when necessary,

and not return to the operating switch stand until the movement has been

completed. When not practicable to go to the opposite side of the track,

the crew member should stand at least 20 feet from the operating switch

stand.

The person handling the switch is responsible for its correct positioning.

The engineer shall confirm that switches near the locomotive are properly

lined and shall require the same attention from other crew members.

Never foul another track with cars unless you have approval from the

dispatcher.

(7) Derailer Procedures. The Installation Commander shall review the need to protect

areas with derail devices and shall include procedures for their use in the local railroad operating

directive. Installation Commanders shall also ensure derail devices are conspicuously marked.

Derail devices shall normally be set in a derailing position.

Crew members shall remain alert for derail devices to avoid unintentional

derailment of railroad equipment.

Railcars shall not be spotted where they will foul derail devices.

Crew members shall leave derail devices in the open or closed position in

accordance with local railroad operating directive.

3 - 11