Page 47 - flip_2015_Canada_By_Train_The_Complete_VIA_Rail_Travel_Guide

RAILWAY BASICS 125
Whistle Posts
hese signs, posted before blind corners, tunnels and sharp turns, urge engineers to blow the whistle to warn any animals or people along the tracks.
Whistle Signals
Whistle Whistle Prohibited Tunnel
Block Block Begin End
Whistle sounds are used to caution or instruct train or yard workers of a train’s movements. he whistle signals may be long, short or a combination of the two, with each combination having its own meaning. Today, even with the onset of modern means of communication, whistle signals are still in use.
he code for a short sound is “o”; and for a longer one is “–.” he table below shows the meaning of various whistle sounds.
WHISTLE CODES
Sequence
What It Means
o
Stop or stopping; apply the brakes.
–
Approaching railroad station or junction (if moving), or apply air brakes and equalize pressure (if standing).
oo
A general answer signal or acknowledgement, identical to the “roger” or “10-4” radio terms.
o–
Inspect the train.
––
Train is about to proceed forward; release the brakes.
oo o
Train is about to proceed in reverse (if standing), or train is about to stop at the next station (if moving).
–o o o
Flagman, go protect the rear of the train.
o –––
Flagman, go protect the front of the train.
––– –
Flagman, return to the train from the west or north.
–––– –
Flagman, return to the train from the east or south.
––o –
Train is approaching a grade-level crossing (i.e., a road crossing). This is a widely used safety signal used to warn motorists and is blown at every grade-level crossing, except where local noise ordinances prohibit it.
oooo o
Danger, get off the tracks! Used to warn pedestrians or livestock on the tracks in front of the approaching train.