Abbreviations

CONDR

CONDR = Conductor

Abbreviations

DISPR

Dispatcher

Abbreviations

ENGR

Engineer

Abbreviations

OK

Correct

Abbreviations

SUB

Subdivision

Abbreviations

SUBDIV

Subdivision

Glossary

Absolute Block

A length of track that no train is permitted to enter while the track is occupied by another train.

"Absolute Block"

Glossary

Absolute Signal

A block or interlocking signal without a number plate, or designated by an A marker

"Absolute Block"

Glossary

Automatic Block Signal System (ABS)

A series of consecutive blocks governed by block signals, cab signals, or both. The signals are activated by a train or by certain conditions that effect the block use.

"Automatic Block System (ABS)"

Glossary

Block

A length of track:

between consecutive block signals/

between a block signal and the end of block system limits/

or

in ATC limits the use of which is governed by cab signals and or block signals.

"Block"

Glossary

Block Signal

A fixed signal at the entrance of a block that giverns trains entering and using that block.

"Block Signal"

Glossary

Block System

A block or series of consecutive blocks within ABS, ACS, CTC, or interlocking limits.

"Block System"

Glossary

Centralized Traffic Control (CTC) 

A block system that uses block signal indications to authorize train movements.

"Centralized Traffic Control (CTC)"

Glossary

Conductor

Employee in charge of train or yard movement.

"Conductor"

Glossary

Control Operator

Employee assigned to operate a CTC or interlocking control machine or authorized to grant track permits.

"Control Operator"

Glossary

Control Point

The location of absolute signals controlled by a control operator.

"Control Point"

Glossary

Controlled Siding

A siding within CTC or interlocking limits where a signal indication authorizes the siding's use.

"Controlled Siding"

Glossary

Crossings at Grade

Crossings that intersect at the same level.

"Crossings at Grade"

Glossary

Crossover

A track connection between two adjacent tracks, consisting of two switches, which is intended to be used primarily for the purpose of crossing over from one track to the other.

"Crossover"

Glossary

Distant Signal

A fixed signal outside a block system that governs the approach to a block signal, interlocking signal, or switch point indicator. A distant signal does not indicate conditions that affect track use between the distant signal and block or interlocking signals or between the distant signal and switch point indicator. A distant signal is identified by a D.

"Distant Signal"

Glossary

Double Track

Two main tracks where the current of traffic on one track is in a specified direction and in the opposite direction on the other.

"Double Track"

Glossary

Electric Switch Lock

An electrically controlled lock that restricts the use of a hand-operated switch or derail.

"Electric Switch Lock"

Glossary

Engine

A unit propelled by any form of energy or more than one of these units operated from a single control. Engines are used in train or yard service. Rules that apply to engines also apply to cab control cars.

"Engine"

Glossary

Engineer

Also includes student engineers, firemen, hostlers, and remote control operators.

"Engineer"

Glossary

Fixed Signal

A signal that is fixed to a location permanently and that indicates a condition affecting train movement.

"Fixed Signal"

Glossary

Foreman

Employee in charge of work.

"Foreman"

Glossary

General Track Bulletin

A notice containing track bulletin restrictions and other conditions affecting train movement.

"General Track Bulletin"

Glossary

Interlocking

Signal appliances that are interconncected so that each of their movements follows the other in a proper sequence. Interlockings may be operated manually or automatically.

"Interlocking"

Glossary

Interlocking Limits

The tracks between outer opposing absolute signals of and interlocking.

"Interlocking Limits"

Glossary

Interlocking Signals

The fixed signals of an interlocking that governs trains using interlocking limits.

"Interlocking Signals"

Glossary

Main Track

A track extending through yards and between stations that must not be occupied without authority or protection. Protect then Authorize.

"Main Track"

Glossary

Multiple Main Tracks

Two or more main tracks that are used according to the timetable.

"Multiple Main Tracks"

Glossary

Proceed Indication

Any block signal indication that allows a train to proceed without stopping.

"Proceed Indication"

Glossary

Reverse Movement

A movement opposite the authorized direction.

"Reverse Movement"

Glossary

Siding

A track connected the the main track and used for meeting or passing trains. Location of sidings are shown in the timetable.

"Siding"

Glossary

Signal Aspect

The appearence of a fixed or cab signal.

"Signal Aspect"

Glossary

Signal Indication

The action required by the signal aspect.

"Signal Indication"

Glossary

Single Track

A main track where trains are operated in both directions.

"Single Track"

Glossary

Spring Switch

A switch with a spring mechanism that returns the switch points to the original position after they are trailed through.

"Spring Switch"

Glossary

Station

A place designated by name in the timetable station column.

"Station"

Glossary

Timetable

A publication with instructions on train, engine, or equipment movement. It also contains other essential information.

"Timetable"

Glossary

Track Bulletin

A notice of conditions affecting train movement. It may also authorize movement against the current of traffic where rule 9.14 (Movement with the Current of Traffic) is in effect.

"Track Bulletin"

Glossary

Trackside Warning Detector

A device that indicates conditions such as overheated journals, dragging equipment, excess dimensions, shifted loads, high water, or slides.

"Trackside Warning Detector"

Glossary

Track Warrant Control (TWC)

A method to authorize train movements or portect men or machines on a main track within specified limits in a territory designated by the timetable.

"Track Warrant Control (TWC)"

Glossary

Train

One or more engines coupled, with or without cars. displaying a marker, and authorized to operate on a main track. A term that when used in connection with speed restrictions, flag protection, and the observance of all signals and signal rules also applies to engines.

"Train"

Glossary

Working Limits

A segment of track within definite boundaries on which movements may be made only as permitted by the employee in charge. Boundaries may be established using mile post, station signs, timetable locations, or clearly identifiable points.

"Working Limits"

Glossary

Yard

A system of tracks, other than main tracks and sidings, used for making up trains, storing cars, and other purposes.

"Yard"

Glossary

Yard Limits

A portion of main track designated by yard limit signs and timetable special instructions or a track bulletin.

"Yard Limits"