Highway Crossings (Grade crossing)

either direction on the main line. Engineers shall also dim lights when approaching motor vehicles

operating along parallel roadways.

(5) End of Train Markers. The lead car in the direction of travel shall be properly

protected by the train crew. For all train movements made between sunset and sunrise or during

low-visibility conditions such as rain, snow or fog, a battery-powered flashing light should be

placed on the lead or trailing coupler of the last car. Short yard switching type movements do not

require the use of the end of train light.

(6) Highway Crossings (Grade crossing). For crossings with approach activated lights

and gates, the crew shall confirm that the lights are flashing and the gates are down before

proceeding across the crossing. For crossings with approach activated lights only, the crew shall

confirm that the lights are flashing (and have done so for at least 20 seconds) before proceeding

across the crossing. Horn and bell procedures shall be followed. Sound the horn 20 seconds

before the train will occupy the crossing, which translates to the following distances for the

following speeds:

5 MPH.......... 150 feet

20 MPH........ 600 feet

10 MPH.......... 300 feet

25 MPH........ 750 feet

15 MPH.......... 450 feet

30 MPH........ 900 feet

Any lights that are observed as not flashing shall be reported immediately to the railroad

dispatcher.

When a train in a switching movement has been delayed or has stopped within 200 feet of a public

crossing protected by automatic crossing signals, the crossing shall not be occupied by either a

forward or reverse movement unless crossing signals have been operating for 20 seconds to

provide warning.

For crossings without signals, flagging is the best means of alerting motorists and pedestrians.

The Installation Commander will designate crossings which must be flagged and shall be included

in the local railroad operating directive. When flagging is not used, horn and bell procedures shall

be followed.

When cars are shoved in a switching movement over a highway crossing, a member of the crew

shall flag the crossing per Section 3.3.f.

When visibility is restricted at a highway crossing by cars on an adjacent track, the crossing shall

be flagged per Section 3.3.f.

(7) Blue Signals (Flags and Lights). Blue signals are important in maintaining a safe

railroad operation. Blue signals indicate that someone is working in, on, under, between or

around the equipment and no movement of that equipment shall be made. Violation of the blue

signal rule can put one or more workers at risk of death or serious injury.

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