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A safety net when all else fails

50684 Clarification on using the emergency button

May 2012 in Train Operations

tagged Equipment Rules and procedures Not Specified

A reporter would like clarification on company procedures in place relating to the use of the GSM-R/NRN emergency button during and after incidents where it is necessary to make an emergency stop.
East Midlands Trains have recently issued notices about the use of the emergency button which has led to staff feeling unsure about the situations under which it should be used. This could potentially lead to staff not using the button in an emergency situation.
Rule Book module TW1 section 3.5states:
 
 "You should use the emergency call facility to give advice for trains to be      stopped immediately or cautioned in connection with an accident, obstruction or other exceptional incident."
 
The reporter would like to know if the decision to use the GSM-R/NRN emergency button relies on the Driver or Guard's judgement or if there is a set criteria which situations or incidents must fall under?
 
Response from East Midlands Trains
 
East Midlands Trains (EMT) would like to thank the reporter for giving them the opportunity to re-emphasise the actions to be undertaken.

During GSM-R training, examples were given of when it would be appropriate to use the red emergency button, the yellow priority button and the ordinary call procedure. The clause quoted above (TW1. section 3.5) states clearly when the red button should be operated. The yellow priority button on the GSM-R would be more appropriate when, for example, the Driver experiences a missing speed restriction sign. However, the examples provided in the training cannot cover every eventuality and have been compiled to give the user a broad idea of the scope for each type of call. The individual should use their best judgement based upon the training they have received to determine what action is appropriate to the circumstances of each incident.

In GSM-R areas, as indicated in the sectional appendix ofTW1, the use of the GSM-R radio would be the correct system to use in all communications. In NRN only areas, no instructions have changed. TheRule Book module M1 section 2.2advises:

 "You must tell the signaller about the accident in the quickest way possible by using

  • th:e cab radio emergency call procedure,
  • any available telephone,
  • any radio system."

 

50684