Nevada Northern Railway
National Historic Landmark
Rulebook
Effective February 1, 2022 at 12:01 AM
(Version 21.0 © 2022)
2 Version 21.0
No. .
THIS BOOK IS THE PROPERTY
OF THE
NEVADA NORTHERN RAILWAY COMPANY
AND IS LOANED TO
NAME OCCUPATION
Who hereby agrees to return it to the proper official when
called for, or upon leaving the service, or forfeit one dollar.
The rules herein govern all operations of the Nevada Northern
Railway Foundation. These rules apply to all departments and
all staff and volunteers regardless of position. They take effect
February 1, 2022, superseding all previous, and instructions
inconsistent therewithin.
Special instructions may be issued by proper authority.
M.S. BASSETT,
President, NNRy
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Table of Contents
Section
Subject
Page
Introduction
4
1.0
Responsibilities and Training
5
2.0
General Rules
14
3.0
General Responsibilities
20
4.0
Hours of Service
40
5.0
Operations
44
6.0
Air Brakes
50
7.0
System Maps
66
8.0
Standard Time
69
9.0
Signals and Their Use
70
10.0
Railroad Radio Rules
83
11.0
Blue Signal Protection of Workman
89
12.0
Dispatching
94
13.0
Timetables, General Orders, Notices,
Safety Bulletins and Track Warrants
96
14.0
Locomotive Direction, Terms and
Movement of Trains, Engines and Other
Equipment
106
15.0
Track Bulletins
115
16.0
Switches and Switching
122
17.0
Hi-Rail Vehicles, Motorcars, Railbikes,
Handcars & Velocipedes
128
18.0
Motor Vehicles
134
19.0
Bunkhouse
135
20.0
Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace
138
21.0
Logbook
148
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Introduction
Welcome aboard!
You are about to undertake a highly unusual
and dangerous responsibility - historic railroading. You will be
using historic locomotives and equipment to demonstrate to the
public what railroading was like in the last century. There are no
push buttons. This is hard, demanding, physical work that requires
your full attention at all times.
Our program is unusual, we use paid staff with volunteers to create
a team that operates and preserves the equipment and buildings of
this National Historic Landmark.
This combination allows us to provide a gateway into America's
and Ely's past for our visitors. This is a real time; hands-on
experience and it does have its dangers. This rulebook is our bible.
When you join our team, in any position, you are committing to
follow our rules and policies. This is not a guidebook;
it is a
rulebook
. It is designed to put into practice procedures and
policies that will keep everyone safe. It doesn’t matter if you’re a
staff member, a new volunteer or an old hand. If you have a
question that is not answered here,
ASK!
If you are not
comfortable doing something,
STOP
and inform the rest of the
crew.
EVERYONE
has the right to
STOP
any action.
SAFETY IS OUR OVERRIDING CONCERN.
This rulebook includes the Policies, General Rules and the
Operating Rules which govern all employees of the railroad, paid
staff, interns or volunteers. There are additional safety rules that
apply while working on track or in the shop.
Unless you have a railroad background, the terms, equipment, and
hand signals will be foreign to you. That's okay; we all started the
same way. Ask questions, take advantage of training opportunities,
and most of all - always be safe.
This rulebook only covers the basics. There are other resources
listed in the appendix that you will find helpful. The more you
know, the more interesting you will find your time working at the
Nevada Northern Railway.
Again, welcome aboard!
Mark S. Bassett, President
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Operating Rules
The following rules are applicable to all personnel. including tour
guides, track, shop, engine, depot, administrative staff and train
service, whether part-time, full-time, intern or volunteer status, are
subject to these rules and are considered an employee of the
railroad. Railroad is defined as any physical property that is owned
and or operated by the Nevada Northern Railway Foundation for
use in the operations of the Nevada Northern Railway Museum.
Section 1.0 - Responsibilities and Training
1.1 Safety
- Safety is the first order of business to perform in all
work situations. Obeying the rules is essential to job safety and
continued employment.
1.1.1 Job Briefing
Whenever two or more employees
meet, a job safety briefing must be completed prior to any
work being performed.
1.2 Employee Responsibilities -
It is the responsibility of every
employee to know and understand the rules, operating practices
and the chain of command of the NNRy. If an employee fails to
understand something, it is their responsibility to ASK a
responsible manager for clarification.
1.2.1 Definition -
An employee is defined as paid staff,
unpaid volunteer or intern.
1.3 Departments and Responsibilities -
The NNRy works under
the following departments:
A. Administration Oversees all aspects of the railroad
including personnel, operations, funding, marketing and
training.
B. Operations - Oversees the operation of the railroad
including all trains, programs, events and charters.
C. Mechanical - Oversees the restoration and maintenance
of all mechanical equipment including locomotives, cars,
machines, and tools.
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D. Track/Grounds - Oversees the maintenance and
condition of the track. Also, this is the lead department on
the condition of the grounds in the East Ely Yard.
E. Curation and Archives - Oversees all historical aspects
of the historic equipment, buildings, artifacts, records,
tours, narration, publications and paperwork to ensure that
historical standards are being maintained.,
F. Guest Services - Oversees all reservations, ticketing,
visitor orientation, concessions, gift shop and resolving
guest issues.
1.3.1 -
The operations department has final authority over
all aspects of train operations, programming and on-board
services.
1.3.2 -
The locomotive will remain under the mechanical
department’s control until the locomotive leaves the
servicing area when it then falls under the control of the
operations department. It is the responsibility of the
mechanical department to ensure the locomotive is ready
on time.
1.4 Responsible Managers -
The COO is the overall manager of
all departments and operations. The Superintendent is the Deputy
COO and assists in the overall management of all departments
and operations. The responsible managers of the individual
departments are:
A. Administration - COO/Superintendent
B. Operations - Trainmaster
C. Mechanical - Master Mechanic
D. Track/Grounds - Roadmaster
E. Curation and Archives - Curator/Archivist
F. Guest Services - Guest Services Manager
1.4.1 Delegation -
The responsible managers may, at their
discretion, designate responsibilities to other employees
but must, at all times, supervise any delegated work.
1.5 Chain of Command -
Issues within a department must be
brought to the attention of the responsible manager. If the issue
concerns the responsible manager or the issue is not satisfactorily
resolved, the employee should go to the next level higher in the
chain of command.
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1.6 Interdepartmental Cooperation -
The NNRy is a small
railroad accomplishing big things. Departments must cooperate
and assist each other when and if needed to provide a high level
of service and professionalism to our customers. Departments
wishing for the assistance of another department will request
such assistance from the responsible manager, who will do their
best to provide assistance. If the responsible managers cannot
resolve the issue, the issues must be brought to the attention of
the COO.
1.7 Training -
Training for any position may consist of
classroom instruction, assigned reading, on the job training
and/or online instruction. There are no time restrictions on the
length of training for positions. A safe, qualified, employee is
more valuable than someone rushed through training. The
employee is expected to communicate with trainers and
responsible managers to ensure that the pace and style of training
is adequate.
1.8 Qualified Trainers -
Qualified trainers are designated by the
COO, Superintendent, Trainmaster or Master Mechanic. Those
being assigned to train other employees should have a minimum
of six months in the position prior to being assigned as a trainer
for the position. The trainer will report on all training provided
and progress to a responsible manager.
1.9 Certifications -
All employees must recertify annually for all
positions that they hold a certification in. Failure to recertify
within twelve (12) consecutive months will result in the loss of
certification for that position.
1.9.1 Required Hours to Maintain Certification -
Employees must maintain a minimum of 20 hours for
each half of the year (January to June, and July to
December) to retain their certifications in each position
that they have certifications in. For steam and diesel
engineers, the engineer must complete 10 hours on each
type of locomotive for a total of 20 hours. Hours for
brakeman can be split between head and rear brakemen.
Hours will be tracked through the Hours of Service forms.
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1.9.2 Recertification -
Employees that do not maintain
the minimum number of hours will be required to receive
a briefing from a responsible manager and undergo a
check ride to regain their certification.
1.9.3 Proof of Certification -
Railroad issued I.D. cards
will be updated to reflect all current certifications. This
card must be carried at all times while in service and must
be readily available if requested.
1.10 DSLE Responsibilities -
The DSLE’s are responsible for
administering written and oral testing and all check rides. They
report recommendations for certification to the Superintendent
and Trainmaster who will issue the certification.
1.10.1 Minimum Hours -
To maintain DSLE
certification, the employee must be certified in both steam
and diesel and complete 40 hours in the cab of the
locomotives, which is split between each type of
locomotive.
1.11 Check Rides -
Check rides will be performed by a
responsible manager for the following positions: steam
locomotive engineer, diesel locomotive engineer, steam
locomotive fireman, conductor and brakemen.
1.11.1 Initial Check Rides -
All locomotive positions
will require a check ride that encompasses a full trip on
the Keystone Route. Conductors and brakemen can
complete a check ride on either route.
1.11.2 Recertification Check Rides -
All individuals will
be required to take an annual check ride for all positions
that they are qualified for. In the case of conductors, they
will not be required to also complete a brakeman check
ride.
1.12 Loss of Certification -
The COO, Superintendent,
Trainmaster, Master Mechanic or a DSLE may revoke an
employee's certification at any time, due to unsafe operating
practices or violation of the rules. Following such revocation,
disciplinary action, termination, or retraining and re-certification
may occur depending on the severity of the infraction under the
rules set forth in Section 3.3.
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1.13 Annual Safety Training -
All employees are required to
attend the annual safety class and pass a written examination,
failure to attend annual safety training will result in the
suspension of certifications until attending an annual safety class
and passing the written exam. It is the employee’s responsibility
to ensure they attend annual safety training.
1.13.1 Student Brakemen -
Student brakemen may work
under the supervision of a qualified employee after
passing an open book safety test. A student brakeman
cannot be promoted to a brakeman until they have
attended the annual safety training and passed the written
examination.
1.13.2 Other Positions –
All other positions are required
to take an open book safety test at the start of
employment. These employees may be promoted in
positions outside of train service but will also be required
to attend annual safety training.
1.14 Additional Training or testing -
Employees will be
required to complete any continuing education training or testing
as required by the responsible managers.
Glossary of Railroad Terms
AAR -
Association of American Railroads, the central
coordinating and research agency for North American railroads.
ADA -
Americans with Disabilities Act, a Federal law that
requires businesses to provide reasonable accommodations to
members of the public with disabilities.
A End of Car -
The opposite end from which the handbrake is
mounted.
Alco -
American Locomotive Company
All Black
- Indication that there are no issues spotted on the
train.
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Archivist -
The responsible manager for the railroad’s paper
record and history collection.
Bad Order
- A rail car that has mechanical defects and cannot be
used until repairs are made. Cars that are bad ordered are marked
“B.O.”
Bank
- Coal placed in a steam locomotive firebox that will keep
the locomotive hot and under pressure between operating days.
BLW
- Baldwin Locomotive Works
COO
- Chief Operating Officer, the overall responsible manager
for all operations and departments of the NNRy.
Curator
- The responsible manager for the NNRy collection.
Deadhead
- Movement of the train crew from one point to
another or to a train by vehicle or other train.
Doubleheading
- Using two locomotives independently to move
a train, done on occasion with the steam locomotives.
DSLE
- Designated Supervisory Locomotive Engineer, a
designated engineer that is responsible for the safe operations,
testing and check rides of employees.
Emergency Brake Application
- Also known as dynamiting the
brakes, big holing it or dumping the air.
Fouling
Anything or anybody that is within the designated
clear distance. ie, person standing too close to the track, car in a
crossing, train on a switch.
FRA
- Federal Railroad Administration, the Federal regulatory
agency responsible for railroad operations and safety.
Guest Services Manager
- The responsible manager for the
guest services department.
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Handcar
A railroad cart that is propelled by operators working
a hand pump.
Highball
- The signal to operate the train at maximum authorized
speed.
Hi-Rail
A motor vehicle fixed with retractable steel wheels
allowing it to operate on the highway or railroad tracks. Typically
used by track inspection or maintenance workers.
Hot Box
- An overheated axle, caused by a lack of oil in the
bearing box or a bearing failure.
In the Clear
Persons or equipment are outside of the
designated clear distance.
Iron
The rail, as in “don’t stand between the iron.”
Johnson Bar
The manually operated reverse lever found on
locomotive 40.
Kangaroo Court –
An official hearing or investigation held
wherever is most convenient.
KCC NMD
- Kennecott Copper Company, Nevada Mines
Division
Ladder Track
Main track of a rail yard which individual
tracks lead off.
Light Engine
A train comprised of just the locomotive.
MM
- Master Mechanic, the responsible manager for the
mechanical department.
NCC
- Nevada Consolidated Copper
NNRy
- Nevada Northern Railway
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NTSB
National Transportation Safety Board
On the Carpet
To be called to the managers office, typically
for disciplinary action, so called as the General Manager’s office
was the only one on the railroad to have carpeted floors.
PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (ie safety glasses,
earplugs, gloves, etc.).
Point Protection
- When moving a train or cars, this is the visual
check by a designated crewmember that the track is clear in the
direction of movement and a continual check to ensure that it
remains clear.
Popping Off
- The release of excess steam from the safety valves
of a steam locomotive.
PUC
- The Nevada Public Utilities Commission which has
authority over railroads within Nevada.
Responsible Manager
- The head of the department or their
designated representative responsible for the work being
performed.
Right of Way
- Includes all the track, property and roadbed of a
railway line.
Roadmaster
- The responsible manager of the track department.
Roadway Worker
- A track maintenance worker.
Set Out
- Taking cars out of a consist.
Speeder
A self-propelled cart typically used by track inspectors
or maintenance workers.
STB
- Federal Surface Transportation Board controls all Class 1,
2 and 3 railroads.
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Superintendent
- Is the Deputy to the COO and is the overall
responsible manager for all operations and departments of the
NNRy.
TM
- Trainmaster, the responsible manager for the operating
department.
Tying Down a Train
- Setting enough handbrakes to hold the
train.
Velocipede
A three-wheeled rail vehicle similar in shape to a
bicycle that is propelled by the operator.
Waiver –
Permission granted by the FRA to operate freight
equipment 50 years or older under conditions outlined in the
waiver. Such equipment must have a waiver to be operated
outside of yard limits.
Qualified Operator
- An employee that has the proper
certifications and authorization to use equipment.
Wye –
Arrangement of track that is used to turn locomotives or
trains.
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Section 2.0 - General Rules
All employees are subject to the rules, regulations and operating
timetable of the Nevada Northern Railway Museum. An employee
is defined as paid staff, unpaid volunteer or intern. All operating
personnel, including interns and volunteers, will be required to
pass examinations and check rides. These rules are necessary for
the safe and efficient operation of the Nevada Northern Railway.
Violations of these rules may lead to termination of your
relationship with the Nevada Northern Railway.
A.
Safety is of first importance in the discharge of duty. In the case
of doubt or uncertainty, the safest course must be taken.
Employees are responsible for their own safety. Constant presence
of mind to ensure safety to themselves and others is the primary
duty of all employees and they must exercise care to avoid injury
to themselves or others. They must observe the condition of the
equipment and the tools which they use in performing their duties
and, when found defective, will put them in a safe condition,
reporting defects to the proper authority. Obedience to the rules by
each employee is essential for safety and remaining in service.
EVERY employee, regardless of responsibility or position, retains
the right of stop work authority and the right to speak to a
responsible manager before work resumes in a safe manner.
B.
Employees whose duties are prescribed by these rules must have
a copy immediately available for reference while on duty.
Employees, whose duties are affected by the timetable and special
instructions, must have a current copy available for reference while
on duty.
C.
Employees must be conversant with, and obey all rules and
instructions. If in doubt as to the meaning of any rule or instruction,
they must apply to the responsible manager for an explanation. The
Chief Operations Officer (COO) reserves the right to modify or
change these rules at any time by due notice. The Chief Operations
Officer's decision regarding any of these rules is final.
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D.
Employees must attend required classes and pass required
examinations.
E.
All employees must cooperate and assist in carrying out the
rules and instructions and must promptly report to the responsible
manager any violation of these rules or instructions, any condition
or practice which may endanger the safety of trains, passengers, or
employees and any misconduct or negligence affecting the interest
of the railroad.
F.
Employees must report by the first means of communication
any accident, personal injuries, defects in track, bridges, or signals,
or any unusual condition which may affect the safe and efficient
operation of the railroad. Written reports must follow promptly
when required.
G.
The use or possession of alcohol beverages while on duty is
prohibited. Employees must not have any measurable alcohol in
their breath or in their bodily fluids when reporting for duty, while
on duty or while on company property with the exception of rule
20.7.3.
The use or possession of intoxicants, over the counter or
prescription drugs, narcotics, controlled substances or medications
that may adversely affect safe performance is prohibited while on
duty or on museum property. Employees must not have any
prohibited substances in their bodily fluids when reporting for
duty, while on duty or while on museum property. The complete
Drug Policy is in Section 20.
H.
Employees reporting for duty must be clean and neat in
appearance. They must be courteous and orderly while on duty.
Uniform and badge when prescribed must be worn while on duty.
Employees must refrain from using coarse and vulgar language
while on duty. The use of tobacco by employees on our property
is prohibited except in designated areas. Smoking, chewing
tobacco and vaping is prohibited in all buildings, locomotives,
rolling stock, trucks, rail equipment and on the grounds, except in
designated areas. Beards and mustaches must be neatly trimmed;
otherwise personnel must be clean-shaven daily prior to their shift.
Hair styles should reflect a professional manner and hair should be
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well kept on the job. Your personal representation should be as
professional as your job performance. Therefore, there are basic
appearance standards that apply to all employees regardless of
their job function, uniform requirements, and personal style.
I.
Employees must conduct themselves in such a manner that the
railroad will not be subject to criticism or loss of goodwill. They
must not discriminate between patrons of the railroad.
J.
Employees must expect the movement of trains, engines, cars,
or other movable equipment at any time, on any track, and in either
direction. They must not stand on the track in front of an
approaching engine, car, or other moving equipment and must
inform themselves as to the location of structures or obstructions
where clearance is close.
K.
Employees must be familiar with and comply with the
requirements of the Federal Hours of Service Laws if and where
applicable. Those affected by such laws shall be in compliance and
are admonished to use their off-duty time in such a manner as to
make them fit for safe, prompt, and efficient performance of their
duties.
L.
Employees whose duties require service on another railroad are
under the jurisdiction of the officers of the other railroad on which
the service is being performed. When performing service on
another railroad and unless otherwise instructed, employees shall
be governed by the safety, air brake, and train handling rules and
timetable of the railroad upon which they are operating or serving.
M.
Employees are strictly prohibited from removing property
belonging to the Nevada Northern Railway Foundation and/or
Nevada Northern Railway Museum. They may not remove or
consume food items, beverages, supplies or equipment except as
authorized by management in accepted practice. Theft of any
property is cause for immediate discharge from the NNRy.
Equipment owned by the NNRyF and/or NNRy is to only be used
for official railroad business unless authorized by a responsible
manager.
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N.
Employees are strictly prohibited from damaging property or
equipment belonging to the Nevada Northern Railway Foundation
and/or Nevada Northern Railway Museum. The grounds and
equipment are a National Historic Landmark District and must be
treated as such by all personnel. Failure to adhere to this policy is
cause for immediate discharge from the NNRy.
O.
Employees igniting any type of fuel burning equipment in an
enclosed space where explosive mixtures of vapors can
accumulate, must ensure that the equipment is purged or adequate
ventilation is provided so that any possible explosive mixture or
vapor will be removed (for example, a firebox, a stove or a steam
generator).
P.
Engineers and conductors must see that first aid kits, fire
extinguishers, cell phones, safety equipment, and two-way radios
are operational and supplied on all equipment carrying personnel
or passengers for whom they are responsible.
Q.
Employees are prohibited from having firearms or other deadly
weapons including knives with a blade in excess of three inches in
their possession while on duty or while on railroad property except
those authorized to have them in the performance of their duty or
those given special permission by the Chief Operating Officer.
R.
Employees must report for duty at the designated time and
place. They must devote themselves exclusively to the service of
the railroad while on duty. They must not absent themselves from
duty, exchange duties or substitute other personnel in their place
without notifying the responsible manager.
S.
Employees must not be negligent, insubordinate, dishonest,
immoral, or quarrelsome. They must not enter into altercations,
play practical jokes, scuffle, or wrestle while on duty, or while on
railroad property.
T.
Employees are responsible for the proper care and use of all
railroad property entrusted to them. Upon demand or request of a
responsible manager, employees must return such property.
Employees issued switch keys are responsible that such keys be
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used only by them in the proper performance of their duties. They
must not appropriate railroad property for their personal use.
U.
Employees must not allow unauthorized persons on trains,
engines, or cars.
V.
Employees are prohibited from altering, nullifying, changing
design of or in any manner restricting or interfering with the
normal intended function of any device or equipment on
locomotives, cars, or other railroad property. Permission from a
responsible manager is required, except in the case of emergency
in which case a full report must be made.
W.
Employees must not put soiled linen or sacks of trash in the
aisles at any time the train is in operation or open to the public.
Employees must keep their duty station clean at all times. They
must assist other employees in keeping the complete train clean,
especially all restrooms and other areas subject to soiling by the
public. Employees must be attentive to guests boarding or
alighting from the train or bus to ensure that no accidents occur.
Employees must assist elderly, handicapped, or other guests in
need of assistance in boarding, alighting or moving about the
interior of the train. Employees should be familiar with the location
of and the use of the wheelchair-loading device. All employees on
the train should be informed as to the seating location of such
passengers in order to promptly assist them in the case of an
emergency.
X.
All regularly scheduled trains will operate regardless of
passenger load. It is imperative that the conductor ensure that we
maintain our standards of operation regardless of the passenger
load or weather conditions. In cases of severe weather refer to the
Emergency Procedures. The conductor has the authority to close
the open car to passengers in the case of severe weather.
Y
.
TO AVOID INJURY, NEVADA NORTHERN
EMPLOYEES ARE PROHIBITED FROM GETTING ON
OR OFF MOVING EQUIPMENT EXCEPT IN AN
EMERGENCY.
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Z. Your personal safety is
your
responsibility. You are also
responsible for the safety of your coworkers. Do not come to
work or sign in unless you are physically and mentally able to
work. If you are not at 100% physically and mentally, you are a
hazard to yourself and your coworkers.
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Section 3.0 - General Responsibilities
3.1 Safety
- Safety is the first order of business to perform in all
work situations. Obeying the rules is essential to job safety and
continued employment.
3.1.1 Maintaining a Safe Course
- In case of doubt or
uncertainty, take the safest course, safety first. EVERY
employee, regardless of responsibility or position, retains
the right of stop work authority and the right to speak to a
responsible manager before work resumes in a safe
manner.
3.1.2 Job Briefing Meetings
Prior to performing any
task requiring the coordination of two or more employees,
those employees involved must hold a “job briefing” to
ensure that all involved employees have a clear
understanding of the work to be performed and the
individual responsibility of each employee. The job
briefing must include a discussion of:
A.
The authority to occupy the main track for the
train, or method of protection for roadway workers.
B.
Specifics of the work to be performed or moves
made.
C.
The responsibility of each employee.
D.
Any unusual situations.
E.
Specific reminders of hazardous conditions or
unusual practices that the job will require.
F.
A check that all personal electronic devices are
off and stowed away.
G.
The equipment to be used including the number
of cars and length of train.
3.2 Personal Injuries and Accidents
- All accidents with or
without injuries must be reported immediately to a supervisor and
must be recorded in writing by those involved either directly or as
a witness. All accident reports shall be submitted within the period
of no more than 24 hours after the time of the accident to the
reporting supervisor. All medical reports must be copied and filed
also.
3.2.1 Care for Injured
- When passengers or employees
are injured, everything must be done for their proper care.
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3.2.2 Witnesses
- In case of accident, personal injury, loss
of life, or damage to property in which a train is involved,
the conductor must immediately secure the names,
addresses, phone numbers, and occupations of all persons
involved, including all persons at the scene when the
accident occurred. License numbers of automobiles nearby
or involved must be obtained. This information, obtained
with the assistance of other employees, when necessary,
should be included in reports covering such occurrences.
In the event of an accident which may include personal
injury, property damage, or death, employees are not to
speak to any member of the media or to any other person
including passengers or witnesses regarding anything that
happened in any way, shape or form. In such cases the
railroad will designate a spokesperson to make comments
on behalf of the railroad. Crewmembers must not make
public comments or speak to representatives of the media
without authorization by a responsible manager.
Crewmembers are instructed to gather information in
writing and keep such information until it is to be turned
over to railroad authorities for proper investigation. Where
signaling devices are provided or when a crossing flagman
is on duty, a special effort should be made to determine
who among the witnesses can testify whether the signaling
devices were functioning properly or if the crossing
flagman was properly performing his duty. Form E must be
used for documenting this information.
3.2.3 Equipment Inspection -
If an accident causes
personal injury or death, all tools, machinery, and other
equipment involved, including premises where such an
accident occurred, must be promptly secured from
tampering, thus allowing inspection by a responsible
manager or employee. Such inspection should be made by
at least two employees as appointed by the COO. A report
of such inspection, stating the conditions found, names of
persons making the inspection must be forwarded to the
responsible manager. Such equipment must, if possible, be
marked for identification and placed in custody of the
responsible manager or employee and held subject to the
order of the COO regardless of whether or not the
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inspection reveals any defects. Form E must be used for
documenting this information. In the event the incident is
investigated by a regulatory agency, no employee must
tamper with the secured property until cleared by that
agency.
3.2.4 Mechanical Inspection -
When engine or cars or
other rolling stock including track machines or any other
vehicle is involved in an accident resulting in personal
injury or death, an inspection of the equipment must be
made before such equipment is moved as appointed by the
COO. A competent employee of the mechanical
department must make a further inspection at the East Ely
terminal.
3.2.5 Statement
- Except when authorized by a responsible
manager:
A.
Information concerning any accident, personal
injury, or loss of life must not be given to anyone
except authorized representatives of the railroad or
an officer of the law.
B.
Information as to the facts incident to the injury
or death of an employee must not be furnished to
anyone except authorized representatives of the
railroad, the injured employee, or to an officer of
the law.
C.
Information contained in the files or in the
privileged or confidential reports of the railroad
concerning accidents or personal injuries must not
be divulged except to an authorized representative
of the railroad.
D.
Inquiries about accidents, personal injuries, loss
of life, policies, and procedures of the railroad
pertaining to safety and maintenance standards and
the actions of regulatory agencies shall be referred
to an authorized representative of NNRy.
3.3 Rules, Regulations, and Instructions
- Breaking any rule
and/or regulation in any way, shape or form can and will result in
one or more forms of acknowledgment and/or actions listed below
and is not limited to the terms set below. Any rule violation
resulting in punishment or reprimand is at the discretion of the
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COO whose decision is final. Rules violations can threaten your
life as well as the lives of those around you and will not be
tolerated.
3.3.1 Minor Violation to Rule
- In the event that an
employee is caught breaking any rule that involves his/her
own personal safety and does not include loss or damage
to railroad property, the employee will be given a verbal
warning for the violation and will be asked to make a
change in his/her approach as it relates to the violated rule.
After one verbal warning the employee will receive a
written warning which will be placed in the employees file.
3.3.2
Minor Violation to Rule
Causing Damage
- Minor
violation to a rule that includes the damage or loss of
railroad property, but does not result in personal injury to
the employee or a guest, will result in a written reprimand.
The written reprimand will be placed in the employees file.
In such cases where damage to equipment is incurred, the
employee may lose his/her authorization to operate such
equipment. Offenses may include misuse or abuse of a
locomotive.
3.3.3 Blatant Violation
- A blatant violation to these rules
will result in an automatic removal from whatever job is
being performed. In the event that an employee willfully
abuses a locomotive, rolling stock, track equipment, truck
or any other railroad vehicle in any way, shape or form, the
employee will be removed from the piece of equipment and
his/her authorization to operate any piece of equipment will
be removed. The employee may be removed from his/her
job for a specified amount of time or indefinitely
depending on the severity of the situation. Violations to this
rule include tampering with or modifying any safety device
including brakes, brake systems, locomotives appliances,
or rolling stock appliances that relate to the safe and
effective operation of the equipment.
3.3.4 Injuries
- In the event that an employee injures
another employee or passenger in an accidental situation,
the employee will be removed from the equipment and an
investigation will be held. If the cause of the accident was
not the fault of the employee in question, the employee will
be allowed to return to his/her job. Investigations may be
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held by third party groups or any other state or federal
agency before the employee may be allowed to return to
work.
3.3.5 Loss of Life
- In the event that an employee is
involved in an accident that results in the loss of life, either
of an employee or a passenger, the employee will be
released from duty until the cause of the accident is
determined. In the event that the accident was caused by a
willful action of the employee in question, that employee
may face criminal charges as a result of his/her actions.
Investigations may be run by a third-party agency(s) or any
other State or Federal agency. In the event that the
employee in question is found to have broken any rule, the
employee may be accountable for any loss of life, damage
claims or other punitive damages, or criminal charges.
3.3.6 Employee Review -
In the instance that a responsible
manager receives reports about rules violations, unsafe
conduct, unsafe practices etc, the manager will submit such
reports to the COO, Superintendent, Trainmaster and
Master Mechanic who will determine the need for a review
of the employee’s actions. Such a review may involve
additional check rides, oversight or testing to determine the
employee’s compliance with the rules and standard
operating practices. Employee’s may be placed back into
student status for additional training. Testing and a check
ride will need to be completed to regain full status and the
employee may be placed in a probationary period.
3.4 Rule Changes -
The COO reserves the right to change, modify,
nullify, or alter any rule in the rule book at any time by posting the
new rule, or by rewriting and reprinting the rule book. Permanent
rules changes will be posted 24 hours prior to the change in a
statement from the COO.
The COO may in case of an emergency, which may involve
a life or death situation, major property damage or serious safety
concerns make verbal temporary rule changes. Such temporary
changes expire at midnight of the day the rule was made.
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3.5 Drugs and Alcohol
- The use or possession of alcoholic
beverages while on duty is prohibited. Employees must not have
any measurable alcohol in their breath or in their bodily fluids
when reporting for duty, while on duty or while on company
property.
The use or possession of intoxicants, over the counter or
prescription drugs, narcotics, controlled substances or medications
that may adversely affect safe performance is prohibited while on
duty or on museum property. Employees must not have any
prohibited substances in their bodily fluids when reporting for duty
or while on duty. See Section 15 for the complete Drug and
Alcohol Policies.
3.6 Conduct -
Employees must not be:
A. Careless of the safety of themselves or others.
B. Negligent.
C. Insubordinate.
D. Dishonest.
E. Immoral.
F. Quarrelsome.
G. Discourteous.
3.7 Games or Readings -
Unless permitted by the railroad,
employees on duty must not play games, read magazines,
newspapers, or other literature not related to their duties.
3.8 Appearance
- Personnel shall be dressed in suitable clothing
that provides adequate protection and general comfort while in the
performance of his/her duties. We are a National Historic
Landmark, the time period we have chosen to represent is the
1930’s through the 1940’s.
3.8.1
All train personnel are to wear period appropriate
clothing.
Clothing requirements for the various job
positions are as follows:
A. Bib overalls, blue denim or hickory stripe.
B. Historical accurate, long sleeve 100% natural
fiber shirt. The shirt must be worn with the sleeves
fastened at the wrist while in the cab of a steam
locomotive. Sleeve protectors are allowed. Diesel
crews are allowed short sleeve shirts.
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C. Boots that go over the ankle.
D. An engineer's cap or other historically
appropriate headgear, no ball caps.
E. Natural fiber gloves (cotton or leather).
F. Watch with a second hand.
For conductors the uniform is:
A. Black dress pants and vest.
B. White shirt.
C. Tie
D. Boots that go over the ankle.
E. Conductor’s hat
F. Leather gloves
G. Watch with a second hand.
3.9 Duty Reporting or Absence -
Employees must report for
duty at the designated time and place with the necessary equipment
to perform their duties. They must spend their time on duty
working only for the railroad. Employees must not leave their
assignment, exchange duties, or allow others to fill their
assignment without notifying the responsible manager. When
unable to report for duty, you must notify your immediate
supervisor at least two hours before the scheduled time to report
for duty.
3.9.1 - Steam Engineers -
Will report the engine house
three (3) hours before train time to hostle their locomotive
when they are scheduled for the first train of the day. If it
is not the first trip of the day, they will report one (1) hour
before train time to where the locomotive is located.
3.9.2 - Diesel Engineers -
Will report the engine house two
(2) hours before train time to hostle their locomotive when
they are scheduled for the first train of the day. If it is not
the first trip of the day, they will report one (1) hour before
train time to where the locomotive is located.
3.9.3 - Conductors and Brakeman-
Will report to the
initial terminal two (2) hours before train time to prepare
their train for departure when they are scheduled for the
first train of the day. If it is not the first trip of the day, they
will report one (1) hour before train time to where the train
is located and ensure that it is ready for departure.
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3.9.4 - Narrators and Concessionaires -
Will report to the
initial terminal thirty (30) minutes before train time to
prepare their train for departure.
3.10 Hours of Service Law
Employees must be familiar with,
and comply with, the requirements of the federal hours of service
law. When an employee gets to ninety minutes before their legal
hours of service expiration, it is the employee’s responsibility to
notify a responsible manager that they will be expiring under the
hours of service law. See Section 4 for the complete Hours of
Service Section.
3.10.1
Employees are expected to use off duty time so that
they are prepared for work. If an employee is called to
report for duty before legal off duty time has expired,
before accepting the call to work, the employee must notify
the individual making the call that off duty time has not
expired.
3.11 Alert to Train Movement
Employees should expect the
movement of trains, engines, cars or other movable equipment at
any time, on any track, and in any direction. Employees must not
stand on the track in front of an approaching engine, car, or other
moving equipment.
Employees are also responsible to ensure that the general
public is at least six feet to the side away from approaching
equipment. If a member of the train crew sees that a person is either
on the track or within six feet of the track, the equipment must not
approach closer than fifty feet to the offending individual.
3.11.1 Distance from Standing Equipment
- All
employees must stay at least 25 feet away from the end of
any standing train, engine, or cars when crossing the track.
All employees are also responsible to inform the general
public who might be on the property of this rule.
3.11.2 Distance Between Equipment
- All employees
must ensure that there is at least 50 feet between any
standing train, locomotive, or cars before they go in
between equipment. The
only
exception to this rule is
making connections between cars; the cars must be coupled
before going in between equipment.
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3
.
11.3 Moving Equipment
Before moving any
equipment, in any direction, all employees, especially the
engineer and conductor must ascertain that there are no
persons fouling the direction of movement.
3.12 Roofs and Footboards -
Train and engine service employees
may only occupy the roof or footboards of rolling stock when the
equipment is standing still and when their duties require them to
do so. Train and engine service employees may ride on the steam
locomotive pilot foot boards during trailing movements only.
Other employees whose duties require them to occupy the roof of
rolling stock may do so only when equipment is standing and is
protected by a blue signal.
3.13 Jumping off or on Equipment
- Jumping off or on, rolling
or standing equipment, is prohibited at all times.
3.14 Stepping Between Cars
- Under no circumstance shall any
person step between cars or locomotives while they are moving.
3.15 Riding Between Cars
- Riding between cars or locomotives
is prohibited at all times.
3.16 Not Permitted on Equipment
- Non-employees are not
allowed on a locomotive or other piece of equipment when it is in
motion at any time unless permission has been granted by the
COO, Superintendent, Trainmaster, Master Mechanic or the
person is ticketed or is part of a formal program. Non-employees
are allowed to be in the cab of a standing locomotive or piece of
equipment when there is a qualified train crew member present or
the equipment has been blue flagged and is set up for self-guided
tours. Engineers have the final authority on whether passengers are
to be allowed on the locomotive during a movement.
3.16.1
Only two non-NNRy employees are allowed in a
locomotive cab while the locomotive is in motion.
3.16.2
At no time are
more than
five people allowed in a
locomotive cab while the locomotive is in motion, except
locomotive 40, in which the maximum occupancy is four
people. Exceptions can be made with the permission of the
COO, Superintendent, or Trainmaster and with the
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concurrence of the Locomotive Engineer, five people may
be allowed in the cab of Locomotive 40 and six people may
be allowed in the cabs of Locomotives 81 and 93.
3.16.3
The minimum age to ride on a locomotive is 12
years old with a supervising adult 18 years or older.
3.17 Altering Equipment
Without the authorization of a
responsible manager, employees must not alter, nullify, change the
design of or in any manner restrict or interfere with the normal
function or appearance of any device or equipment on engines,
cars, or other railroad property except in the case of an emergency.
Employees must report to the responsible manager changes made
in an emergency.
3.18 Clean Property
- Railroad premises must be kept in a clean
orderly and safe condition. Railroad buildings, facilities, or
equipment must not be marred or defaced. Only such information
as authorized by the responsible manager or required by law may
be posted in or upon railroad property.
3.18.1 Cab Cleanliness -
It is the responsibility of the
engine crew to ensure that the locomotive cab is clean at
the end of every working day. All trash and rags must be
removed from the cab and disposed properly and the cab
swept. On steam locomotives, coal must be raked down for
the next day’s run and the deck cleared of all chunks of coal
and dust.
3.18.2 Train Cleanliness -
It is the responsibility of the
conductor and rear brakeman to make sure that the train
cars are clean and properly stocked with train supplies
(toilet paper, fuel, propane, etc.) for each trip. Guest
services will help with the cleaning of the cars if and when
they have the personnel available. Community service
workers are allowed to help with the cleaning under direct
supervision of authorized train service members. It is the
responsibility of guest services to ensure that the
concessions and register are properly stocked one (1) hour
before train departure.
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3.19 Credit or Property
Unless specifically authorized,
employees must not use the museum’s credit and must not receive
or pay out money on the museum’s account. Employees must not
sell or in any way get rid of museum property without the
expressed written permission of the President or Curator.
Employees must care for all articles of museum property and
report any vandalism or other misdeeds to the responsible manager
immediately.
3.20 Gratuities
Employees must not discriminate among
museum customers. Employees must not accept gifts or rewards
from customers, suppliers, or contractors of the museum unless
authorized by the responsible manager. Employees can accept
donations on behalf of NNRy and deposit them in donation boxes.
3.21 Overheated Wheels
When overheated wheels are found on
a train, the train must be stopped and held for a minimum of ten
minutes to allow the heat to equalize throughout the wheel. The
source of the overheating needs to be ascertained and corrected
before the train proceeds and temperatures must be recorded. This
must be reported to a responsible manager.
3.22 Flat Spots
If a wheel on a piece of equipment has a flat spot
more than 2.5 inches long, or if the wheel has adjoining flat spots
that are each at least 2 inches long, the equipment must not be
moved faster than 10 mph. Such equipment must be set out at East
Ely and the Master Mechanic, or his designee, notified.
3.23 Accuracy of Speed Indicator
The engineer must verify
speed indicator accuracy as soon as possible after taking charge of
the engine. If the speed indicator is not accurate to within plus or
minus three miles an hour at a speed of 10-30 mph and within plus
or minus 5 mph above 30 mph, the Engineer must immediately
report the variance to the mechanical department.
Speedometers on NNRy locomotives shall not be tampered with,
turned off, or reset by engineer or trainmen for any reason. In the
case of GPS speedometers, the engineer or trainman may turn the
speedometer off and on to reset it, but in no instance shall they
tamper with it.
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3.24 Electronic Devices
The following are our policies
concerning electronic devices:
3.24.1 Personal Devices
- Railroad operating employees
must have all personal electronic devices turned off and
any ear pieces removed from the ear (with the exception of
hearing aids) and placed in their locker, grip, or personal
vehicle before train service personnel sign in for duty. As
part of the crew meeting, this will be reviewed by the
supervisory employee, for all operating crew members.
3.24.2 Railroad Supplied Electronic Devices -
Train
crew members except the engineer may use a railroad
supplied or a personal electronic device as authorized.
Engineers are prohibited from using any electronic device
(except railroad radios or hearing aids) while on a moving
train or when a duty requires any member of the crew to be
on the ground or to ride rolling equipment and during any
period when another employee of the railroad is assisting
in preparation of the train.
3.24.3 Emergency Uses -
Train service personnel may use
a personal or railroad supplied electronic communication
device as necessary to respond to an emergency situation.
3.24.4 Railroad Radio -
This rule does not restrict the use
of the railroad radio nor does it affect the working wireless
communications under 49 CFR part 220.
3.24.5 Camera Use -
The use of cameras by non-crew
members is allowed in the cab of a moving locomotive as
long as the use of the camera does not distract the engine
crew in the performance of their duties. The engineer can
order the cameras to be turned off and stored if they
become a distraction. A cell phone can be used as a camera,
as long as the cell phone is in airplane mode, and a crew
member visually confirms it.
3.25 Additional Manuals
The following manuals are considered
part of the rulebook.
3.25.1 -
The NNRy Museum Personnel Policy book, in its
entirety, will constitute Rule 3.25.1
3.25.2 -
The NNRy Museum Conductor/Brakeman Handbook,
will constitute Rule 3.25.2
32 Version 21.0
3.25.3
- The NNRy Engineer and Fireman Training Manual,
will constitute rule 3.25.3
3.25.4 -
The NNRy Museum 214 Handbook, will constitute
rule 3.25.4.
3.25.5 -
The NNRy Museum part 217 Handbook, will
constitute rule 3.25.5.
3.25.6 -
The NNRy Museum Emergency Procedures
Handbook will constitute rule 3.25.6
3.25.7 -
The NNRy Museum Volunteer Handbook will
constitute rule 3.25.7
3.26 Duties of Trainmen and Enginemen
The conductor and
the engineer are responsible for the safety and the protection of
their train and observance of the rules. If any conditions are not
covered by the rules, they must take every precaution for
protection. If any crew member feels conditions are unsafe or that
another crew member is causing unsafe conditions, that
crewmember has the authority to stop all work until all safety
concerns are addressed.
3.27 Conductor’s Responsibilities
- In areas of safety, train
movement, and crowd control, the train conductor has the final
authority. However, if a responsible manager is present on the
train, the supervisor may exercise their authority and overrule the
conductor. All train conductors on all trains shall fill out trip
reports at the end of their shift and file them at the designated crew
office.
3.27.1 Consist Report -
With the exception of the regular
excursion or rental train, the conductor is to report to the
engineer at the crew briefing the number of cars in the
train. The engineer and conductor will check the length of
the train against the orders to ensure that train length will
not affect operations. In such cases that the train is made
up of cars other than the regular excursion or rental train,
the conductor will include a list of the cars used in their
conductor's report.
3.27.2 Rear Brakeman
The rear brakeman shall be
accountable to the conductor at all times during the
operation of the train and its appliances.
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3.28 Engineer’s Responsibilities
- The locomotive engineer is
responsible for the safe operation and handling of the locomotive
and train. The engineer has final authority for the crew members
in the cab and operation of the locomotive, however, if the
operations or mechanical supervisor is present, the supervisor may
exercise their authority and overrule the engineer.
3.28.1 Firemen
- Locomotive firemen shall be accountable
to the engineer at all times during the operation of the
locomotive and its appliances.
3.28.2 Head Brakeman
Head brakeman shall be
accountable to the engineer at all times during the
operation of the locomotive and its appliances.
3.29
Safe and Efficient Operation
- The engineer is responsible
for the safe and efficient operation of the engine in his charge and
all persons employed thereon must obey his instructions with
regard to the operation of the engine. A student engineer with a
Class 3 designation may handle the engine under the close
supervision of the engineer. Locomotives will be inspected prior
to the beginning and at the end of each day of operation with proper
documentation filed appropriately.
3.30
Absent from Locomotive
- The engineer and fireman or
steam qualified crew member must not, at the same time, absent
themselves from a steam engine under pressure. The only
exception is when the locomotive is under the mechanical
department’s charge and it is left in compliance with 3.37.3. When
diesel locomotives are left unattended, they must comply with
Rule 3.37.1.
3.31 Care with Water -
Great care must be exercised to prevent
water being thrown from the smokestack of a steam locomotive
when starting and when priming conditions exist. Under these
conditions, prudent use of cylinder cocks must be observed.
3.32 Avoid Smoke
- Firing a steam locomotive must be done in
such a manner as to avoid dense smoke particularly at any station.
34 Version 21.0
3.33 Diligence at All Times
Firemen and/or head brakemen are
responsible for view and vision when a train or locomotive is
turning toward the fireman’s side in the leading and trailing
directions.
3.34 Rail Safety
-
Before entering any track footprint, look both
ways to verify the track is clear.
Don’t step or stand on the head of
the rail at any time. The track footprint is defined as the area four
feet off of each rail, the width of the footprint is 12 feet 8 ½ inches.
3.35
Engines Coupled to Passenger Equipment
Engines
coupled to equipment that include occupied passenger cars must
not be left without an authorized employee in charge. The
employee must be properly qualified to operate the air brakes.
3.36 Reporting Engine Defects
The engineer will report any
engine defect on the Daily Locomotive Inspection form and notify
the relieving engineer, when needed.
3.37 Locomotive Standing Unattended -
When a locomotive is
standing unattended, if practical, it should be placed on a work
track that is protected by a derail or coupled to a car or cars with
hand brakes applied. Equipment controls should be positioned as
follows:
3.37.1 Diesel
1. Throttle in 'IDLE'.
2. Reverse lever in 'NEUTRAL', handle removed
and secured.
3. Generator field switch open or 'OFF'.
4. Independent brake fully applied.
5. Automatic brake valve reduction of 20 psi.
6. Isolation switch to ‘START’ or engine control
switch to ‘IDLE’.
7. Hand brakes applied.
8. Headlights off.
3.37.2 Chocking Locomotive 204
From November 1st
through March 31st or when snow is on the ground,
Locomotive 204 shall be chocked while not in operation.
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3.37.3 Steam Locomotive
1. Throttle closed and locked.
2. Reverse lever centered.
3. Independent brake fully applied.
4. Automatic brake valve reduction of 20 psi when
coupled to cars. When there are no cars, automatic
in ‘HOLD’.
5. Chains, metal or wooden chocks, properly placed
under front and rear of the engineer side rear drive
wheel.
6. Cylinder cocks left open.
7. Steam chest relief valve left open.
8. Headlights off.
NOTE: The above rules are not the guidelines for shutting
a steam or diesel locomotive down.
3.38 Starting and Moving a Locomotive -
Locomotives are
only to be started and moved under the following conditions:
A. When authorized by Timetable or Train Order;
B. When authorized by the Chief Operating Officer,
Superintendent, Trainmaster or Master Mechanic.
C. Every locomotive will have its radio turned on, tested
and confirmed to be working before moving.
3.39 Hand Brakes
Rolling stock should never be moved with
any hand brakes applied.
3.40 Traction Motors
- To prevent burning of traction motors and
other electrical equipment damage to diesel locomotives, power
shall not be used to hold the train while standing.
3.41 Qualified to Operate
- All employees either operating,
signaling, or assisting in the operation of any railroad equipment,
rolling stock, or machinery must be cleared and qualified by the
responsible manager to do such work on such equipment.
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3.42 Permission to Operate
- Employees shall be properly trained
and have permission from the responsible manager before using
any railroad equipment, tools, rolling stock or track machines and
trucks.
3.43 Positions
- The following positions shall require training and
testing before persons are allowed to participate and operate within
the limits of the job description:
A. Student Brakeman then Brakeman
B. Student Hostler then Hostler
C. Student Conductor then Train Conductor
D. Student Fireman then Fireman
E. Student Engineer then Locomotive Engineer
F. Equipment Operator (clearance to operate MOW
machinery)
F. Dispatcher
These positions are under the jurisdiction of the COO who shall
authorize certificates of qualification to be issued by either the
Superintendent or Trainmaster for the above described positions
after training and testing has been completed.
3.43.1 Other Positions -
Positions other than train service
positions also require training, testing or other
qualifications before persons are allowed to participate and
operate within the limits of the job description including
but not limited to:
A. Gift Shop
B. Narrator
C. Tour Guides
D. Mechanics
E. Groundskeepers
F. Track Workers
These positions are under the jurisdiction of the COO who
shall authorize the designated manager to issue
qualifications.
3.44 Hostling Duties
- Hostlers are allowed to move diesel or
steam locomotives as listed in these rules as long as they passed
the Hostling test, demonstrated their qualifications and received a
Class 2 Certification. The following rules shall apply to all hostlers
of the NNRy.
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3.44.1 Movement of Locomotives -
Hostlers are allowed
to move locomotives into and out of the locomotive shop
and within the Service Area under the authorization of the
Chief Operating Officer, Superintendent, Trainmaster or
Master Mechanic.
3.44.2 Making Joints -
Hostlers are not allowed to make
or break joints between locomotives and cars for any
reason at any time.
3.44.3 Brakeman Required -
Hostlers are only allowed to
move locomotives when a brakeman is present. Making a
movement without a brakeman is forbidden.
3.44.4 Intention to Move -
Hostlers shall communicate
their intent to move a locomotive to everybody who will be
affected by that movement prior to moving a locomotive.
3.44.5 Blue Flag -
Hostlers shall not move a locomotive
protected by a blue signal.
3.44.6 Lose of Certification -
The responsible manager
may revoke hostling certification at any time for any
reason.
3.45 Whistle in buildings
- Hostlers and engineers shall not blow
the whistle or horn inside of a building unless switching operations
are being conducted. The bell shall be rung prior to all movements.
3.46 Minimum Age
for Heavy Equipment
- No person under the
age of 18 years shall be allowed to operate any heavy equipment
that is owned or operated by the railroad. This includes the Hi-
railers, trucks and any other motorized machinery including
speeders.
3.46.1 Minimum Requirements -
To operate Hi-Rail
Vehicles or Motorcars you must:
A. Be properly qualified and tested.
B. Have a state issued driver’s license.
C. Minimum age to operate a Handcar or
Velocipede is thirteen, with adult supervision.
3.47 Minimum Age
for Train Service -
The minimum age of a
student brakeman is 16 years of age. The minimum age for student
fireman or student mechanic is 18 years of age. The minimum age
for student hostler, student conductor or student engineer is 18
38 Version 21.0
years of age. The minimum age for a student mechanic is 18 years
of age unless enrolled in approved education courses or holding
approved education certifications.
3.48 Proof of Qualification
- Employees shall be issued an
identification card by the Superintendent or Trainmaster and have
their records updated as it relates to ongoing qualification. The
identification card shall have the name of the qualified employee;
his/her job title and qualification, the length of time and expiration
date of the qualification and the signature of the designated
managers and other appointed officers.
3.49 Proof of Identification
- Employees are required to have
their identification card on their person at all times. Identification
cards need not be visible at all times; however, employees should
be prepared to present their identification card at any time while
on railroad property, whether they are on duty or not.
3.50 Deceased
- In the case of death, or where a corpse is found
on railroad property, proper railroad authority and police authority
must be notified at once. The body must not be moved and in all
cases a report must be made.
3.51 Livestock
When livestock are present on the track or right
of way and are potentially in the path of the train, the engineer must
react by reducing speed and operate as if a speed restriction is in
place.
3.51.1 Ring Bell for Livestock
When livestock are near
the track, ring the bell and proceed at a slow speed.
Repeated usage of the whistle is not recommended for
livestock encounters.
3.51.2 Report Livestock
- Livestock that are loose on the
track must be reported as soon as possible to a responsible
manager. Location and animal type are also needed.
3.51.3 Injured Livestock
- All livestock struck or killed
must be immediately reported to a responsible manager.
Version 21.0 39
3.52 End of Track
- Trains are prohibited from going past the red
flag on the Keystone Route, HiLine Route, or the McGill Junction
Route.
40 Version 21.0
Section 4.0 - Hours of Service Rules
4.1 Hours of Service
- In accordance with federal regulations,
employees, both certified and students, performing the following
duties are covered by the hours of service rules: engineers,
firemen, hostlers, conductors, brakemen, dispatchers, and signal
maintainers. The hours of service rules cover service both on the
line and within yard limits including switching activities or shop
switching. All employees must sign into service prior to any
operations being commenced.
4.2 Length of Duty -
Total time worked during one tour of duty
may not exceed 12 consecutive hours.
4.3 Rest Breaks -
Time worked during one tour of duty may be
broken by one rest period which may be between 4 and 8 hours in
length. But at no time may the on-duty time exceed 12 hours.
4.4 Time Off Between Tours of Duty
It is the employees’
responsibility to take the appropriate time off between tours of
duty.
4.4.1 -
If 12 consecutive or total hours are worked during
one tour of duty, the employee must remain off duty for at
least 10 hours before returning to work.
4.4.2 -
If the period worked is less than 12 consecutive or
total hours, the employee must remain off duty for at least
8 hours before returning to work.
4.4.3 -
Once an employee has been off duty for 8 or 10
hours depending on the situation, a new tour of duty is
started when the employee reports for duty.
4.4.4 -
Employees are expected to use off duty time so that
they are to become rested so they can return to work.
4.4.5 -
If an employee is called to report for duty before
legal off duty time has expired, before accepting the call to
work, the employee must notify the individual making the
call that off duty time has not expired.
4.5 Employee’s Responsibility -
It is each employee’s
responsibility to maintain their own Hours of Service Log and
ensure that they will be able to complete their assigned duties
Version 21.0 41
within the limits of the NNRY hours of service rules. If an
employee has been scheduled for a length of time which may
violate the NNRY hours of service rules, it is the responsibility of
each employee to notify the crew scheduler.
Once on duty, if an employee discovers that he/she may not be able
to complete their assigned duties without violating NNRY hours
of service rules, he/she must notify the dispatcher as soon as
possible, but no later than 90 minutes before the conclusion of 12
total working hours.
4.6 Commingled Service -
Any employee of the NNRY who
spends a portion of any day engaged in an activity which is covered
by hours of service, that employee, is then covered by hours of
service for the entire day. This is considered commingled service.
Such an employee is then subject to the hours of service rules
regarding commingled service. For example, if an employee works
2 hours as a brakeman at the beginning of his/her work day, the
balance of his/her work day may not exceed 10 hours, regardless
of the activity.
4.6.1 Driving Times -
Driving times of more than 1 hour
are covered by the commingled service section of the hours
of service rules. For example, under the rule, if an
employee were to drive for 5 hours he/she will only be
permitted to work 7 hours or the balance of a 12-hour tour
of duty, in any form of covered service. This rule only
applies to circumstances when driving times of more than
one hour precede train service.
4.6.2 Commingled Rest Breaks -
Before reporting for
duty to an assignment covered by hours of service, each
employee must have had the appropriate amount of rest
since the previous work day, regardless of the activity
performed. For example: if an employee works in the
machine shop (an activity which is not covered by hours of
service rules) for 15 hours, he/she must have at least 10
hours off duty before reporting for an assignment which is
covered by hours of service rules.
4.7 Deadheading -
Deadheading is defined to be time spent in
transit from East Ely to a duty assignment. If assigned duties begin
at East Ely then no deadheading is involved. If an assignment is
42 Version 21.0
to begin at a place other than East Ely, time spent in deadhead
transportation will be considered on duty time and will be recorded
as such on the hours of service log.
4.7.1
If deadheading occurs after an assignment has been
completed, the deadhead transportation time will not be
considered on duty time nor will it be considered off duty
time. For example, if a train crew is relieved of duty at a
place on the NNRY other than East Ely, all time in transit
to East Ely will be considered deadhead time and should
be recorded as such on the hours of service log. Off duty
time for this crew will begin after they have been
transported back to East Ely and are released to leave the
property.
4.8 Hours of Service Report -
The following information must be
recorded on the hours of service report:
A.
Signing in:
Each Employee should list his/her name, the
month, year and sheet number at the top of each hours of
service sheet.
B. Occupation
: Each employee should list his/her assigned
duty for that day as the occupation. If more than one type
of job will be performed that day, please list each job. If
travel time greater than one hour occurs prior to reporting
for duty, please include “travel” in the occupation column.
C. Prior time off
: If time off duty is less than 36 hours, the
time must be recorded to the nearest minute. If time off
duty is less than 72 hours but greater than 36 hours, the
time should be recorded to the nearest hour. If time off
duty is greater than 72 hours, the time should be recorded
as 72+, or greater than 72 hours. Time off duty should be
measured from the last time an employee engaged in any
service for the NNRY.
D. On Duty
: Starting date and time should be filled out
before going on duty.
E. Relieved
: If an employee takes a break during his/her
train service day this break time should be recorded under
relieved.
F
.
Released
: Released time is the recorded date and time
that an employee is off duty.
Version 21.0 43
G. Time
: Definitions of time terms for use on the Hours of
Service Form.
Total time on duty:
Should only be filled when an
employee is going off duty. This time should be
recorded to the nearest minute.
Time Over Twelve hours:
Is the time recorded if
an employee goes over his/her 12-hour duty time.
Total Time Calendar Month:
Is the duty time for
every day worked during that month.
Monthly Limbo Time:
Limbo time means a period
of time treated as neither time on duty nor time off
duty, and any other period of service for the railroad
that does not qualify as either covered service or
commingled service.
Consecutive Days on Duty:
Number of days spend
consecutively on duty.
H. Totals
: Totals is the full amount of time spent on duty
during that month, Time spent in limbo that month, and the
highest number of consecutive days during that month.
I. Activity:
This part of the form is for comingled service,
training, and other activities.
Example; If you drive in from
Las Vegas, then brake on an excursion train, the driving
time should be reported in the activity log as comingled
service.
J. Signature
: Each employee must sign the bottom of
his/her hours of service report. The report can be signed
when you fill out the form at the beginning of each month.
4.8.1 Submittal
Hours of service forms must be filled out
completely, signed and submitted to the superintendence
within seven (7) calendar days after the last day of the
month. This may be done by leaving the form in the
designated crew books, in person, by post or electronically.
ATTN: Superintendent [email protected]
Nevada Northern Railway
1100 Ave A
Ely, NV 89310
44 Version 21.0
Section 5.0 - Operations
5.1 Steam Locomotive Operation
Steam locomotives will be
operated in such a manner as to promote the safest course of action.
The engine crew will be responsible for ensuring that adequate
fuel, water, oil and other supplies are on the locomotive and must
coordinate with the shop for fueling.
5.1.1 Excessive Smoke
- Excessive or repetitive smoke
and safety valve lifting is not allowed at any time including
photo shoots or charter. Excessive smoke from the
locomotive is highly discouraged and is viewed as either a
mechanical problem with the combustion system or a lack
of knowledge and skill by the engine crew members. Thick
or heavy smoke is not allowed at any station. Repetitive
offences both at a station or on the line can result in a
review of certification and possible action.
5.1.2 Water in Tenders
The tender must have 5,000
gallons on locomotives 81 and 93 or 4,000 gallons on
locomotive 40 prior to leaving on their trip. If the water
level in the tender falls below 2,500 gallons, the engine
crew will direct that the train must return to the East Ely
Yard to take on water.
5.1.3 Blow Outs
At no time shall a locomotive be blown
out on the machine shop or enginehouse bay tracks in the
direction of the building. The preferred location for blow
outs are on the railroad north side of the RIP building on
the enginehouse lead track. If this is not a viable option,
crews will ensure that tracks are clear from the enginehouse
along the RIP and may do a blow out away from the
enginehouse.
5.2 Idling Diesel Locomotives -
Diesel locomotives must not be
left to idle in any building. When the locomotive is initially started
in a building, as soon as sufficient air is available, the unit is to be
moved outside.
5.3 Slipping Wheels
- Excessive slipping or sliding of the
locomotive or rolling stock wheels and unnecessarily hard braking
are not allowed.
Version 21.0 45
5.4 Speeding
- Speeds in excess of the allowed limits will not be
tolerated. Engineers who are found to be speeding at any time shall
be subject to disciplinary action and if repeated, may suffer loss of
running rights and/or employment status.
5.5 Non-Employees in the Locomotive Cab and on the Train
-
Non-employees are not allowed on a locomotive when it is in
motion at any time unless permission has been granted by the
COO, Superintendent, Trainmaster, or Master Mechanic or the
person is ticketed or is part of a formal program. Non-employees
are allowed to be in the cab of a standing locomotive when there
is a qualified train crew member in the cab. Cab tours can only be
authorized by a qualified train crew member in the cab, other train
crew members or employees are not authorized to grant cab tours.
Non-employees are allowed on the train at the conductor’s
discretion, such as for caboose tours. Passengers will not be
allowed to board the train until the conductor authorizes it.
Engineers have the final authority on whether passengers are to be
allowed on the locomotive during a movement.
5.5.1 -
Only two non-NNRy employees are allowed in a
locomotive cab while the locomotive is in motion.
5.5.2 -
At no time are
more than
five people allowed in a
locomotive cab while the locomotive is in motion. In
Locomotive 40, the maximum is 4 people. With the
permission of the COO, Superintendent, Trainmaster or
Master Mechanic and with the concurrence of the
Locomotive Engineer, six people may be allowed in the
cab of Locomotives 81 and 93 and five people may be
allowed in the cab of Locomotive 40.
5.5.3
The minimum age to ride on a locomotive is 12 years
old with a supervising adult 18 years or older from the same
family.
5.6 Cab Rides by Employees
- Employees other than qualified
and registered crew members that desire to ride any locomotive
must have verbal authority from the COO, Superintendent,
Trainmaster or Master Mechanic. The engineer, fireman,
conductor, and dispatcher do not have the authority to grant cab
46 Version 21.0
rides. And at no time shall there be more people on the locomotive
than the rules allow.
5.7 Locomotive Operation
- An engineer assigned to a particular
locomotive or train is the only person allowed to operate said
locomotive or train. Student engineers will only operate under the
direction of an engineer when such training is scheduled by the
COO, Superintendent, Trainmaster or Master Mechanic.
Renter engineers will only operate under the conditions set under
the applicable train order and only for the trip that they are
designated to take. Both student engineers and renter engineers
will follow all instructions of the engineer of record at all times.
The student engineers or renter engineers will
immediately
relinquish control of the locomotive when told to do so by the
engineer of record.
5.7.1 Emergency
In the event of an unusual situation or
an emergency, such as a derailment, collision or any other
incident, the engineer is to stay in the cab of the
locomotive, unless it is unsafe to do so.
5.8 Communication Preference
Before all movements begin,
the engineer will indicate, at the crew briefing, his preferred
method of communications, be it either radio signals or hand and
lantern signals.
5.9 Inspection on the Road
- All train crew members must inspect
the engine, cars and other equipment they are assigned to at the
direction of the mechanical department. All defects are to be
reported to the mechanical department. It is the engineer’s and/or
conductor’s responsibility to ensure the inspection was completed
and any corrective action needed was taken.
5.10 Trip Reports
-All locomotive engineers and conductors shall
fill out a trip report and file it at the end of their shift on their
assigned locomotives and trains.
5.11 Uncoupling from Train
- When a train has arrived at a point
where the locomotive is to be uncoupled from the train, the
engineer must stop the train at the prescribed spot and make at least
a 50-psi brake pipe reduction of the train line to apply the brakes
Version 21.0 47
and blow one stop whistle. If the train is to be uncoupled outside
of the East Ely Yard, handbrakes must be set and the engineer must
release the brakes to test them before making a 50-psi reduction.
5.12 Do Not Move Rolling Stock with Hand Brakes Applied
-
At no time shall rolling stock be moved with hand brakes applied.
5.13 Missed Stopping Point -
If a train misses the normal stopping
point, passengers will be discharged after the train stops. The only
allowable exception is when the train has stopped in an area where
there was no smooth surface for the passengers to disembark. Then
the train will need to be moved to a suitable area.
After the passengers disembark and the area is clear, then it is
permissible to move the train to the normal stopping point after the
head end brakeman and conductor verify the track is clear at both
ends of the train. If the normal stopping point is missed and there
is a smooth surface for the passengers to disembark, it is not
necessary to move the train.
5.14 Assisted Boarding
When possible, board disabled
passengers 30 minutes before departure. Inform the passenger that
they will be first on and last off for safety purposes. Not all trains
are handicap accessible. Coaches 7 and 8, combine 06 and baggage
20 are all handicap accessible. If none of these are coupled to the
train, the train is not handicap accessible. The East Ely and McGill
depots are the designated handicap accessible points. All
employees, both train crew and guest services, should be advised
of the seating location of such passengers so that they may be
quickly assisted in the case of an emergency.
5.15 Passengers with Disabilities
Passengers with mobility
concerns are boarded using the ADA lift as necessary. Conductors
and brakemen must be able to safely operate this piece of
equipment and be able to train others in the safe operation of the
ADA lift. After using the lift, ensure that the life is clear of the
train prior to departure. Disabled passengers should be advised that
the East Ely Depot is the only spot on the line to provide this
service.
48 Version 21.0
Operation of the ADA lift:
A. To Move Lift.
1. In the parked position, the wheels should
be retracted.
2. Crank the elevator up to lower the
wheels.
3. Pull the handle to release the brake to
move the unit.
4. Push lift into position needed.
B. To lift a passenger.
1. Crank the handle 4 turns to raise the
elevator platform.
2. Push the wheel lever to fold the wheels
up.
3. Crank the handle down to lower the
elevator platform to ground level.
4. Unlatch the ground ramp to load the
passenger. If the passenger is standing,
ensure that they hold onto the handrail. If in
a wheelchair, ensure that the wheelchair
brakes are on.
5. Crank the elevator up to car level.
6. Unlatch the bridge ramp and lower onto
the car vestibule.
7. Unload the passenger.
C. After Loading a passenger.
1. Raise and latch the bridge ramp.
2.Stop eight inches above the ground; use
the wheel lever to unfold the wheels.
3. Once completely lowered, pull the brake
handle to release the brake to move the unit.
4.Push lift to a position where it is clear of
the train.
D. Storage of the lift.
1. Store the lift with its wheels retracted.
The instructions for operation are also on the lift itself. Before
operating the life, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the
proper procedures.
Version 21.0 49
5.16 Bicycles -
Bicycles will be allowed on the train only for
ticketed programs or designated events. Bicycles will be stored in
such a way as to not block the aisles or doorways. Passengers under
these programs will be allowed off the train at designated areas
where the conductor feels it is safe to do so.
5.17 Hours of Service
- In accordance with federal regulations,
employees, both certified and students, performing the following
duties are covered by the hours of service rules: engineers,
firemen, hostlers, conductors, brakemen, dispatchers, and signal
maintainers. The hours of service rules cover service both on the
line and within yard limits including switching activities or shop
switching. All employees must sign into service prior to any
operations being commenced.
50 Version 21.0
Section 6.0 - Air Brakes
6.1 Initial Pre-Departure Locomotive Air Brake Test
The
initial pre-departure locomotive air brake test will be done as part
of the locomotive daily inspection and should be completed before
leaving the servicing area.
6.1.1 Procedure for Locomotive Air Brake Test
Secure
the locomotive(s) with either hand brakes or with ground
chains before proceeding with this test. Before
commencing the air brake test, ensure that the air system is
charged. When the handbrake is set on a diesel locomotive,
the piston will always be extended. For diesel locomotives
the reverser
MUST BE
centered and the Generator Field
turned
OFF
. From the ground, observe that the locomotive
brakes apply and release during this procedure:
A. Independent Brakes
1.
Put the independent and automatic brake
valves in ‘RUNNING’. Apply the
independent brake.
2.
After observing that the brakes apply on
each locomotive, release the independent
brakes and observe that the brakes are
released.
B. Automatic Brakes
1.
Ensure that the brake pipe pressure is 90
psi.
2.
When the brakes are released on all
locomotives, make a 10-psi brake pipe
reduction and observe that the locomotive
brakes have applied.
3.
After the brakes apply on all locomotives,
‘ACTUATE/BAIL’ and observe that the
brakes release.
4.
Reduce brake pipe pressure by an
additional 10 psi to reapply the brakes.
5.
Determine that all brakes apply on all
locomotives.
6.
Observe gauges and verify that the brake
pipe leakage does not exceed 3 psi per
minute. (If the leakage is greater than 3 psi
Version 21.0 51
per minute, the locomotives have failed the
test and the mechanical shop must be
alerted).
7.
Move the automatic brake valve to
‘RUNNING’ position.
8.
Determine that all brakes are released.
6.2 Initial Terminal
The initial terminal on the Nevada Northern
Railway is the East Ely Depot when the train is originally
assembled.
6.3 Operative Brakes -
A passenger or freight train will not depart
from a location where an initial terminal air brake test has been
performed, unless 100% of the brakes on the train are working.
6.3.1 Operative Brakes En Route on a Passenger Train
-
On a passenger train, if more than 50% of the brakes fail
en route, the train must stop and have repairs made. If 50%
or more of the brakes operate on a passenger train, it may
continue en route.
6.3.2 Operative Brakes En Route on Freight Train -
A
freight train en route must have at least 85% of its brakes
operating. If not, the train must either set out the cars or
stop and have repairs made.
6.4 Initial Terminal Air Brake Test -
Each train must be
inspected and tested as specified in this rule by a qualified person
at points:
A.
Where the train is originating from.
B.
Where the consist of the train has been altered by adding
cars or locomotives to the consist or changing locomotive.
Example: Putting the passenger train and work train
together for the January fireworks train and switching from
steam to diesel in preparation for a star train both require a
terminal air brake test. (Note: Cutting off the locomotive
and running around the train and coupling again does not
require an Initial Terminal Air Brake Test.)
52 Version 21.0
6.5 Procedures Initial Terminal Air Brake Test
- Train air brake
system must be charged to the required air pressure, angle cocks
and cut out cocks must be properly positioned, air hoses must be
properly coupled and must be in condition for service. An
examination must be made for leaks and necessary repairs made to
reduce leakage to a minimum. If there are Blue Flags on the train,
a brake test must NOT be performed without the approval of the
mechanical person in charge of the blue flag. The initial terminal
air brake test procedure is as follows:
A
. Once the controlling unit has been coupled to a consist,
the air shall be pumped up for no less than 10 minutes prior
to a brake test. It is suggested that 20 minutes be allowed
for an entire consist to charge with air prior to a brake test.
During cold weather and long trains, more time will be
needed to pump up the train.
B.
A brake test shall only be performed when the brake
pipe pressure shows 90 psi and the main air reservoir must
show no less than 105 psi.
C.
Brake pipe leakage test - When the ground crew member
signals for an initial terminal brake test, the engineer or his
designee shall:
1.
Make sure the airbrake system is charged to the
appropriate pressure.
2.
When the engine crew member receives the
signal, reduce brake pipe pressure by 20 psi and
give one short whistle.
3.
Allow the brake pipe exhaust to stop.
4.
Wait sixty seconds.
5.
The brake pipe pressure reading at this time is the
initial reading to measure leakage. Now time the
brake pipe leakage for sixty seconds. At the end of
the sixty seconds, take another brake pipe pressure
reading measurement. The difference between your
initial reading and second reading is the leakage.
6.
Make sure the leakage does not exceed 5 psi
during the sixty second test.
7.
Do not release the brakes until the leakage test is
complete and the ground crewmember signals for a
release, then release the brakes.
Version 21.0 53
8.
When the engineer releases the brakes, he must
give one short whistle.
D.
The ground crewmembers will use the initial terminal
air brake test to inspect the train. The ground crew member
shall inspect the train and verify that there are no major
leaks in the air brake system. The brake cylinder pistons on
each car in the train shall be checked to see that all car
brakes apply and release. At this stage of the test, the
ground crew member shall check to see that the car brakes
apply. The ground crew member must observe the travel of
body mounted brake cylinder’s piston travel on all cars.
The piston travel must not be less than 7 inches or more
than 9 inches. If the piston travel does not meet these
requirements, notify the mechanical department. Brake
shoe thickness must be more than 3/8 of an inch. Any
defects must be reported to the mechanical supervisor for
further inspection and repair. Trains will not leave until
these repairs have been made.
6.6 Notification of Completed Tests
- The ground crew member
shall notify the engineer that the initial terminal train air brake test
has been satisfactorily performed. The ground crew member shall
notify the engine crewmember of the following information:
A.
The number of cars in the train.
B.
A verbal confirmation that all hand brakes are released,
and that all wheel chocks and chains have been removed.
C.
Any special considerations such as freight cars in the
train or other abnormal situations. This notification can be
done either in person, by radio, or in writing.
6.7 Application and Release Brake Test -
This test is to be done
whenever cars or locomotives have been removed from the train
and set out or put back on at the other end of the train. The test is
to be done as follows:
A.
A brake test shall only be performed when the brake
pipe pressure shows 90 psi and the main air reservoir must
show no less than 105 psi.
B.
When the engineer or designee receives the signal,
reduce brake pipe pressure by 20 psi, and give one whistle
signal.
54 Version 21.0
C.
It must be determined that the brakes apply on the rear
car as indicated by visual inspection.
D.
Upon proper request or other signal to release the train
brakes, the engineer will put the automatic brake valve in
'RUNNING’ position. One short whistle signal must be
sounded. It must be determined that brakes release on rear
car as indicated by gauge or device. In the absence of gauge
or device, brakes must be seen to release.
6.8 Running Brake Test
- A running test of air brakes on all trains
must be made in the following situations:
A.
Must be performed on all trains leaving the East Ely
Depot within the first mile.
B.
When leaving the point where the locomotive was added
to or detached from the train.
C.
When engine crew or train crew has been changed.
D.
When designated by special instruction.
E.
Where the train consists has been changed by adding,
removing or rearranging cars.
6.9 Running Test Procedure
- Test must be made as soon as
speed of train is sufficient to prevent stalling. The following
procedure will govern running air brake test:
A.
While using sufficient power to keep the train stretched,
apply train brakes with enough force to ascertain whether
or not train brakes are operating properly. Locomotive
brakes must be kept released when performing a running
air brake test. If train brakes are operating properly, brakes
must be released and the train may proceed.
B.
If train brakes are not operating properly, the train must
be stopped and an inspection made to determine the cause,
and the problem must be corrected before the train is
allowed to proceed. In this case, the engineer must inform
the mechanical department that there is a brake problem.
6.10 Cutting-off the Locomotive
Before cutting off the
locomotive, the ground crew will set a sufficient number of
handbrakes on the train to prevent movement. At points outside the
East Ely Yard, the engineer will release all the brakes to test the
hand brakes. The engineer will make
at least a 50-psi reduction
Version 21.0 55
in the brake pipe pressure and place the automatic brake valve in
the ‘LAP’ position, and then give one long whistle signal to
indicate the brakes are applied. The conductor or brakeman will
close the angle cock on the locomotive while the angle cock on the
train will remain open to prevent bottling of the air on the train.
When a movement signal is given by the ground crew, the engineer
will place the automatic brake valve in the running position. When
the locomotive disconnects from the train, the conductor or
brakeman shall allow the brakes on the standing portion of the train
to apply in emergency. The angle cock on the standing portion of
the train should remain in the open position to prevent bottling of
the air in the train line. Hook up the air hoses. If provided, chains
and/or dummy couplings shall be connected to the unused
locomotive or car air hose glad hand to prevent damage.
6.11 Charge Time
- Sufficient time must be allowed for the air to
charge before a standing brake test is performed.
6.12 Double Heading
- When two engines are coupled together to
pull a train, the second engine shall close the double heading cock
and the lead locomotive shall control all braking needs. The second
engine will not close the double heading cock until the lead
locomotive has coupled, air hoses tied in and direction has been
given from the lead engineer to do so. The lead locomotive is also
the 'controlling' locomotive in regard to train handling and speed.
6.13 Use of Engine Brake
- Except in emergency cases, use of
engine brake is prohibited to control the train on down grades.
6.14 Emergency Application
- When a train is stopped with an
emergency application of the brakes, whether from the train or at
an emergency rate of reduction from the train, the engineer will not
move the locomotive until informed by a member of the crew that
an inspection of the entire train has been completed and that it is
safe to do so, except in such cases when a bridge or other
obstructions prevent crew members from walking the length of the
train. In such a case, the portion of the train that can be inspected
must be inspected; and at such point the train can be moved to
inspect the remaining portion of the train. When moving the train
under such conditions, it will not be moved at a speed any faster
56 Version 21.0
than 4 mph. If the brakes on the train are applied in an emergency
from any source, the engineer’s brake valve must be moved to
emergency position and left in this position until the train has
stopped and the equalizing reservoir pressure has vented to zero
psi. Upon full discharge from the train brake line, place the train
brake in the ‘LAP’ position. Once the problem has been located
and corrected, the conductor or brakeman shall contact the
engineer. Once the engineer has been notified that the problem is
corrected, the engineer may put the train brake in the ‘RUNNING’
position.
6.15 Bottling Air
Bottling of the air is
NOT
allowed at the
Nevada Northern Railway.
6.16 Moving Freight Cars Without Air
It is permissible to
switch freight cars without connecting the airbrake system; but
before moving the cars, every car must be inspected to ensure that
the brakes are released and/or bled off.
6.17 Moving Passenger Cars
Passenger cars are to have the
airbrake system connected and charged prior to any movement.
The open excursion cars are considered passenger cars. The
cabooses are considered freight cars unless used on the excursion
train in which case they are considered passenger cars.
6.17.1 Locomotive 310 -
The exception is while using
locomotive 310 as a switch engine because it does not have train
air. Locomotive 310 can be used to switch passenger cars under
the following conditions:
1. It has been verified there are no passengers on board the
train, and
2. The switching takes place only within the East Ely yard
limits.
6.18 Cutting Out the Brakes
If it is determined that a car needs
to have its brakes cut out during a trip, the cut-out cock will be
used to cut out the air brakes for that car. Prior to movement after
being cut out, the air will be bled off from the car and the brakes
checked to ensure they are released.
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Air Brake Terms
“A” End of Car:
The end opposite from the one on which the
hand-brake is mounted or where stenciled “A” end on articulated
equipment.
Accelerated Emergency Release:
A release feature of a modern
freight car’s e control valve (except AB) that allows the brake
cylinder and auxiliary reservoir air to flow into the brake pipe
during release after an emergency brake application.
Accelerated Service Release:
A feature of a modern freight car’s
control valves (except type AB) that allows the emergency
reservoir air to flow into the brake pipe for a faster service release.
Actuating;
Depressing the independent brake valve handle
charges the actuating pipe from the main reservoir and releases the
automatic brakes on each locomotive unit in the consist.
Sometimes referred to as bailing off.
Aftercooler:
A radiator unit for cooling compressed air after it has
been heated by compression
Air Brake;
A system of compressed air devices, controlled
manually or pneumatically, that make the car or locomotive slow
down or stop.
Air Brake Hose:
The flexible hose at each end of a car or
locomotive unit which includes a coupling (glad hand) that fits into
an identical coupling on the adjoining car or locomotive unit.
Air Brake System:
All of the devices for operating the air brakes
to control the speed of or stopping a locomotive or train. The
system includes the operating devices, pipes, hoses, fittings and
foundation brake gear.
Air Compressor:
A device on the locomotive which compresses
air for operating the air brakes and all other air-operated devices
on locomotive units and cars. On steam locomotives the air
compressor is powered by steam.
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Air Compressor Control Switch:
A device that loads and unloads
the air compressor at the proper main reservoir pressures and
includes a latch or cutout cock to manually unload the air
compressor.
Air Flow Indicator (AFI):
An instrument that indicates the speed
of the air flowing through the automatic brake valve into the brake
pipe. An AFI is commonly called a flow meter.
Air Gauge:
A duplex or single-pointer gauge which indicates air
pressure in pounds per square inch.
Angle Cock:
A two-position valve located on the brake pipe at
each end of cars or locomotives; opening it allows the passage of
air through the brake pipe into connecting cars or engines.
Automatic Air Brake:
An arrangement of air brakes whereby air
is stored in reservoirs on cars and locomotive units. An operating
valve such as a control valve that causes the brakes to apply and
release by changes in the brake pipe pressure, whatever the cause.
A reduction in brake pipe pressure results in a brake application;
an increase in brake pipe pressure results in a brake release.
Automatic Brake Cut Off Valve:
A device on locomotive units
that can cut out the charging and service functions of the automatic
brake valve. This valve also properly positions the brake valve for
passenger or freight operation.
Automatic Brake Valve:
A manually operated device used by the
engineer to control the flow of compressed air into and out of the
brake pipe.
Automatic Drain Valve:
A device which automatically drains
condensation from main reservoirs.
Automatic Slack Adjuster:
A device that automatically
maintains brake cylinder piston travel at a predetermined length.
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Auxiliary Reservoir:
A storage volume, charged from the brake
pipe, to receive and store air to apply brakes on a car or locomotive
unit. In freight car equipment, the auxiliary reservoir and
emergency reservoir are combined in one unit.
“B” End (of car):
The end of a car that the hand-brake is mounted
or where stenciled “B” end on articulated equipment.
Back-Up Valve:
A device, either portable or permanently
connected to the brake pipe, for the purpose of controlling air
brakes from the car to which it is attached.
Bleed or Bleed Off:
Venting air pressure to the atmosphere, such
as venting air pressure from the brake cylinder of individual cars
by using the release valve.
Bleed Valve (Rod):
A valve located on railroad cars used to
release air pressure from the car’s air brake system, which in turn
releases the air brakes on that car.
Brake Application:
A reduction of brake pipe pressure, no matter
how made, sufficient to cause the control valve to move to service
or emergency position.
Brake Cylinder:
A cylinder containing a piston. Compressed air
forces the piston outward to apply the brakes. When the air
pressure is released, the piston returns to its normal position by a
release spring coiled around the piston rod inside the cylinder.
Brake Pipe:
The section of air brake piping of a car or locomotive
unit that supplies the reservoirs. It also connects the piping and is
1 ¼ inches in diameter and extends from one end of the car to the
other. At the ends, flexible hoses connect the cars. When a train is
made up and all brake pipes on the cars are joined together, the
entire pipe line is called the brake pipe.
Brake Pipe Gradient:
The difference in brake pipe pressure
between the locomotive (or source of supply) and the rear car of
the train. Brake pipe gradients may be:
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1.
Normal Gradient:
The gradient that exists when the system is
fully charged.
2.
False Gradient:
The temporary gradient that exists when the
system is less than fully charged (for example, the exaggerated
difference between the head end and rear end after a release).
3.
Inverse Gradient:
The temporary condition when the brake
pipe pressure is higher at the rear end of the train than at the head
end of the train (for example, during a service brake application).
Brake Pipe Pressure:
The amount of pressure, in pounds per
square inch (psi), in the brake pipe (commonly expressed in
pounds).
Brake Pipe Vent Valve:
An appliance to ensure propagation of an
emergency application of air brakes.
Branch Pipe:
The connecting pipe between the brake pipe and the
control valve.
Branch Pipe Cutout Cock:
A device used to cut out the control
valve on a car.
Caboose Valve:
A device placed in the caboose for applying air
brakes at either a service or emergency rate of reduction.
Clasp Brake:
A braking arrangement in which two brake shoes
are used on each wheel, opposite to each other.
Control Valve
: A device on locomotive units or cars that charges
the reservoirs and applies or releases brake cylinder pressure when
the brake pipe pressure reduces or increases.
Cutout Cock:
A hand operated valve that isolates the brake valve
of a car from the brake pipe.
Double Heading Cock:
See Automatic Brake cut-out valve.
Dynamic Brake:
An electrical device that converts some of the
energy developed by a moving diesel locomotive unit into an
effective slowing force.
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Dynamic Brake Interlock (DBI):
A device installed on some
diesel locomotive units that will automatically keep the locomotive
brakes from applying when automatic brakes are applied during
periods of dynamic brake use.
Dynamite:
Emergency application of the train and/or engine air
brakes.
Emergency Application:
A rapid reduction of brake pipe
pressure that causes the control valves to move to the emergency
position and the vent valves to open, which equalizes auxiliary
reservoir, emergency reservoir, and brake cylinder pressures.
Emergency Brake Valve:
A manually operated device on
equipment that initiates an emergency brake application.
Emergency Reservoir:
A storage volume for compressed air on
each car, charged by the brake pipe, to provide air pressure for use
in emergency applications and certain recharge features.
Emergency Stop:
A stop which necessitates stopping in the
shortest possible distance.
Equalization:
A term used to describe the condition that exists
when brake cylinder pressure and auxiliary reservoir pressure
become equal.
Equalizing Reservoir:
A small reservoir which acts as a reference
volume between the position of the automatic brake valve handle
and the brake pipe pressure.
Foundation Brake Gear:
The levers, rods, brake beams, etc. that
connect the brake cylinder piston rod to the brake shoes so that air
pressure forces the piston out and brake shoes are forced against
the wheels.
Full Service Application:
An automatic air brake that is applied
until the auxiliary reservoir and brake cylinder pressures equalize
is a full-service application. Any further reduction in the brake pipe
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pressure, except in an emergency application, (if the car has an
emergency reservoir) will not affect the amount of pressure in the
brake cylinder. Therefore, air is being wasted from the brake pipe
by making an over reduction. An over reduction is anything over
26 pounds.
Initial Brake
Pipe Pressure
Maximum
Application
Service
Equalization
Pressure
Emergency
Equalization
Pressure
90 psi
26 psi
64 psi
77 psi
Gasket:
Fitted rubber gasket inserted into the glad hand to effect
a high pressure seal to prevent air leaks. (Carry one on your person
for replacement, as they fatigue occasionally.)
Glad Hand:
The metal fitting attached to the free end of an air
hose used for connection of the hose.
Hand Brake:
Hand operated brake device mounted on cars and
locomotives, which when applied prevents movement when air
brakes are released.
Independent Brake Valve:
A device used to apply and release the
independent (locomotive) brake.
Independent Brake Valve Cutout Cock:
A device to cut in or cut
out the independent brake.
Intercooler:
An arrangement of pipes used for cooling
compressed air between stages of compression.
Lap:
All ports on the brake valve (locomotive or cars) are closed.
Main Reservoir:
An air reservoir on the locomotive unit for
storing and cooling compressed air.
Minimum Reduction:
An initial brake pipe reduction of six to
eight psi which causes a minimum brake application.
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Overcharge:
Brake equipment charged to a higher pressure than
the regulating valve is adjusted to or can maintain. In such a
condition, brakes on a portion of the train may not release.
Over Reduction:
A reduction of brake pipe pressure in excess of
full service. WARNING; EXCESSIVE OVER REDUCTION
CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF ABILITY TO OBTAIN AN
EMERGENCY BRAKE APPLICATION.
Power (Stretch) Braking:
The application of the automatic
brakes while the locomotive is working in a throttle position 3 or
higher.
Pressure Differential:
The differential between two pressures
acting on a piston or diaphragm causing it to move toward the
lower pressure.
Pressure Maintaining
: A feature of the automatic brake valve
which maintains brake pipe pressure against brake pipe leakage.
Pressure Maintaining Braking:
Controlling train speed by
making enough of a brake pipe reduction to stabilize speed on a
grade, then allowing the automatic brake valve pressure
maintaining feature to hold the brake application constant.
Propagation of Air:
The serial action of transmitting a brake
application from car to car through a train.
Recharge Time
: Time needed to replenish the air in each car
reservoir system.
Regulating Valve:
The valve that reduces air pressure from the
locomotive unit’s main reservoir to the desired pressure in the
brake pipe. The regulating valve will automatically maintain that
pressure when the automatic brake valve is in the RUNNING
position.
Relay Valve:
A valve that receives a controlling pressure from a
source and operated to deliver and maintain a corresponding
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pressure. Through differential diaphragms of different sizes a
lesser or greater pressure may be delivered.
Release Valve:
A device on the control valve that permits air on
an individual car to bleed to atmosphere from the brake cylinder,
auxiliary and emergency reservoirs, individually or together.
Retainer:
A valve through which brake cylinder air can be
completely exhausted, or predetermined brake cylinder pressure
can be retained.
Service Application:
A reduction of brake pipe pressure at a
controlled rate to cause an application of brakes. It may consist of
one or more service reductions.
Service Lap Position:
The condition obtained on the cars, when
two different volumes of air become equalized and a connection
them is closed.
Service Rate Reduction:
A rate of reduction of the air in the brake
pipe that will cause the brakes to apply with a service application.
Split Service Reduction:
A term describing a method of making
an air brake application in two or more steps to produce more
uniform applications.
Table of Standard Air Pressure on Locomotives
Main Reservoir
High pressure governor
130 lbs.
Main Reservoir
Low pressure governor
115 lbs.
Distributing valve
50 lbs.
Brake Pipe
90 lbs.
Independent Brake Valve
45 lbs.
Surprise Stop:
The shortest stop possible without using an
emergency application.
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Undesired Emergency (UDE):
A service application that results
in an unintentional emergency application. Also referred to as a
dynamiter.
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Section 7.0 System Maps
7.1 Maps
It is the responsibility of all Nevada Northern Railway
train crews to know the railroad and refer to different destinations
by their railroad approved names.
Nevada Northern Railway Map
Version 21.0 67
Nevada Northern Railway Keystone Route
68 Version 21.0
Nevada Northern Railway Hiline Route
Version 21.0 69
Section 8.0 Standard Time
8.1 Standard Clocks
Standard Clocks will be labeled with a sign
that reads “Standard Clock”. Employees responsible for setting
standard clocks will make sure clocks show the correct time. For
time keeping purposes this railroad uses AM and PM.
8.2 Watch Requirements
- All employees are required to carry a
timepiece of any make that must be set and compared daily with
the designated standard clocks. The watch must display hours,
minutes and seconds. Time calibrations must be within one minute
of a designated standard clock.
8.2.1 Cell Phones/Smart Watches
Cell phones/smart
watches cannot be used as a timepiece.
8.3 Time Comparison
- After signing-in for duty, each employee
must compare his timepiece with the standard clock. Before each
departure of a train, the conductor and engineer must confirm time
settings with each other and the master clock. This may be done in
person or by radio.
70 Version 21.0
Section 9.0 - Signals and Their Use
9.1 Hand Signals
Where practical, hand or lantern signals are
the preferred method of communicating between the train
crewmembers. Employees who give or display signals must have
the proper appliances. Appliances must be in good condition and
ready to use. When either hand, lantern signals or radio signals are
used, all crew members must know which system of
communication is being used. Understand that while using the
radio, the engineer will not accept any hand or lantern signals
unless they are stop signals. To change to hand or lantern signals,
the change must be radioed or verbally communicated to the
engineer and acknowledged. See Figure 9.1 for Hand and Lantern
Signals and Figure 9.2 for Day Only Hand Signals.
9.2 Knowing Signals
- All train, track and shop service personnel
must know, understand and be able to perform the required hand
signals for switching prior to being released for any train service
duties.
9.3 Looking for Signals
To recognize and follow signals
correctly, the employees must always be on the lookout for signals.
Do not act on any signal that is not understood.
9.3.1 Signals by Designated Crew Member
Only a
designated crew member gives hand signals. All crew
members must be notified when changing the designated
signaler.
9.3.2 Stop Signals by Employees -
A stop signal can be
given by any employee at any time and must be acted upon
regardless if the employee is the designated crew member
or not.
9.4 Signal to Stop
Any object waved violently by any person on
or near the track is a signal to stop.
9.5 Preferred Signal Side
- When hand signals are used, either by
day or by night, they must be performed in view of the locomotive
engineer. In the event that switching signals must be relayed
through the fireman's side of the engine, the ground crew must
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communicate this action with the engine crew and each other and
the fireman must relay signals clearly and audibly.
9.5.1 Relaying Signals
- In the event that the designated
crew member will not remain visible to the engineer,
additional crew members can be used to relay the
designated crew members signals. The person relaying
signals should relay them exactly as given with the
exception of a stop signal. Both signalers and engine crews
must factor a delay into all movements.
9.6 Visibility
When using hand signals during switching
operations at least one train crew member must be in full view of
the engineer, or next relay ground crew member, during the entire
move. All crew members must have a clear understanding of the
movements to be made. When using radio signals, the ground
crew member does not need to be in view.
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9.1
Release the Brakes/Highball
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9.7 Disappearance of Signals
-
When backing or shoving a
train, engine, or cars in response to hand signals,
disappearance from the engine crew’s view of the employee
giving the signals must be regarded as a stop signal.
9.8 Use of Signals
- Day (hand) signals or radio signals must be
used from sunrise to sunset. Night (lantern) signals or radio signals
must be used from sunset to sunrise and when day signals cannot
be plainly seen.
9.9 Flagman Signals
: The following signaling appliances must be
carried on the train.
A.
Four Red flags, two in the locomotive and two in the
caboose/passenger cars;
B.
Two white lights or brakeman's lanterns;
C.
A minimum of six (6) chemical light stick fusees; and
D.
Two blue flags.
E.
The railroad will now use chemical light stick fusees.
Fusee flares are no longer an appropriate signaling device.
9.2
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It is the conductor’s responsibility to ensure this equipment is on
the train. It is the engineer’s responsibility to ensure the proper
equipment is on the locomotive.
9.9.1 Flag Protection
Flag protection is required against
following trains when:
A. Stopped on a main track -
When a train stops
on a main track unless authorized to do so under
special orders or track warrant (ie. photo shoots,
special events, etc), a flagman must immediately go
back at least ¼ mile, leave one lighted fusee and
may then return half the distance to the train.
Flagman must remain there until stopping a
following train or until recalled. If the flagman is
recalled and safety permits, the flagman must leave
a lighted fusee and return to the train. If recalled
before reaching the prescribed distance, the
flagman must leave a lighted fusee. While
returning to the train, the flagman must also place
single lighted fusees at intervals shorter than the
burning time of the fusee. When the train departs, a
crew member must leave one lighted fusee. In
addition, until the train is moving at least half the
maximum authorized timetable speed for any train
at that location, a crew member must drop off single
lighted fusees at intervals shorter than the burning
time of the fusee.
9.10 Other Signals
- Other signals may be used for other purposes,
providing they are understood by all crewmembers. When not
involved in giving signals, employees must avoid making motions,
which might be construed as a signal. Radio may be used instead
of hand or lantern signals to convey information when the use of
such signals is not practical. While a radio is being used to control
movement of a train or engine, it must be understood by all crew
members exactly which moves will be made under radio control
and during that time hand or lantern signals will not be given to the
engineer nor acted upon with the exception of stop signals. Any
object waved violently, at any time, by any person on or near the
track, is a signal to stop. A stop signal given by an employee at any
time must be acted upon.
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9.11 Unattended Fusee
- With the exception of grade crossings, a
train finding an unattended fusee burning on or near its track must
stop short of the fusee, if consistent with good train handling. A
train at restricted speed must stop before passing the fusee. After
the fusee burns out or after 10 minutes if the fusee is not visible,
the train must proceed at a restricted speed for a distance of one
mile from the point where the fusee was placed.
If the unattended fusee is beyond the first rail of the adjacent track,
the fusee does not apply to the track on which the train is operating.
9.12 Engine Bell
: Except when making momentary stop and start
switching movements, the engine bell must be rung when the
engine is about to be moved, while passing through the tunnels,
and while approaching grade crossings. Ringing must be
commenced sufficiently in advance to afford warning and
continued until crossing is occupied. The bell must be rung
elsewhere when necessary as a warning signal.
9.13 Required Whistle Signals
- Whistle signals should be
distinct, with intensity and duration proportionate to the distance
the signal is to be conveyed. See figure 9.13, their use is prescribed
as follows:
9.13.1 Whistles at Night
- Whistles shall not be blown
within the East Ely Yard between the hours of 9 PM and 7
AM, unless doing so would interfere with safe operations.
The exception is any public grade crossings within yard
limits and the Wig Wag Crossing.
9.13.2 Whistles in the Yard
Whistles shall be blown for
each starting movement made by a light engine or train
within the East Ely Yard. Whistles must be blown in the
yard to warn pedestrians and equipment which are close to
the track.
9.13.3 Road Crossings in the Yard
When moving in the
East Ely yard the whistle is to be blown at each private road
crossing. See Rule 4.13.7
9.13.4 Whistles in Buildings
Whistles shall not be blown
while the locomotive is inside any building unless
switching operations are being done.
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9.13.5 Whistle Failure
Locomotives with an inoperative
whistle shall not leave the East Ely Yard and shall not cross
any public crossings within the East Ely Yard limits. In the
event of whistle failure outside of yard limits, the bell shall
be rung continuously while moving. A locomotive or train
with an inoperative whistle must not proceed across any
road crossing unless a crew member or other equipped
flagman is positioned at the crossing to warn traffic.
9.13.6 Poor Visibility
When visibility is reduced to less
than 200 feet due to poor weather conditions or other
factors the whistle must be sounded frequently, especially
in areas where people or equipment may be on or near the
track.
9.13.7 Public Grade Crossings
The whistle signal
prescribed in Figure 4.13 H must be sounded before
crossing a public grade crossing. The whistle signal shall
be commenced not less than 20 seconds prior to entering
the crossing. The whistle signal must not end until the
leading edge of the movement has completely passed the
crossing. This rule must be adhered to regardless of time
of day or any other whistle signal restrictions. The whistle
signals are listed on Figure 9.13.
Version 21.0 77
Whistle Signals – Figure 9.13
Long Whistle Short Whistle
(Repeated)
A.
Emergency Warning Signal. When this
signal is heard by crews on another train
or engine, stop all movements until it has
been determined that it is safe to proceed.
B.
1) Acknowledgment of signal during an
air test at night; 2) permission to go in
between cars; 3) Movement has stopped.
C.
1) When standing, air brakes are applied
and pressure equalized; 2) Making an
unscheduled stop.
E.
1) When standing - proceed; 2) when
running, acknowledgment of any signal
not otherwise provided for.
F.
When standing, Back up.
G.
Call for signals. Train Crew must contact
the engineer by radio or by visual contact
at once. If not reachable by radio, it must
be assumed that the radio is out of service
and the conductor must proceed to the car
nearest the locomotive and contact the
engineer by verbal means.
H.
1) Crossing Signal. Must be sounded not
less than 20 seconds prior to entering the
crossing. It must not end until the
movement has completely occupied the
crossing. (NRS 705.430)
2) Approaching roadway workers
I. Inspect brake system for leaks.
J.
Approaching meeting and/or waiting
point.
K.
Approaching tunnel, cut, in giving distant
warning or arriving at depot or station.
L. Recall flagman.
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9.14 Engine Lights and Markers
- The headlight must be
displayed bright to the front of every train by day and by night,
except that it is extinguished on the end coupled to cars. Headlight
must be extinguished when a train has stopped clear of the main
track to meet a train at the end of multiple main tracks or sidings.
When moving without cars, diesel engines must display a
headlight or markers to the front and rear by day and by night.
9.14.1 Shoving Movement at Night
Trains will have a
bright white light displayed in the direction of movement
at night. When the movement is led by equipment other
than the locomotive, the conductor or brakeman will use
equipped back up lights or spotlights.
9.15 Headlight Failure -
At night, if the headlight or tender light
fails, a white light must be used in its place while moving; the bell
must be rung continuously, the whistle sounded frequently, and the
responsible manager notified at the first opportunity. At least one
flagman and the use of fusee at each crossing shall protect
crossings.
9.16 Dimming Headlight
- Headlights must be dimmed under the
following conditions except when approaching and passing over
public crossings at grade.
A.
At stations and yards where switching is being done.
B.
When standing close behind another train.
C.
While standing on a main track awaiting the arrival of
an approaching train that is to take the siding.
D.
Approaching and passing head or rear end of train on
adjacent track.
E.
At other times to permit passing of signals or when
safety of employees so requires.
9.17 Markers
- The use of markers will be required at the end of
every train. By day, the marker shall be a red flag, by night, red
lamps. When equipped, the red flag shall be placed in the bracket
that would hold the marker lamps, if unequipped the flag shall be
placed in the coupler or other bracket for this purpose. Highrails or
speeders equipped with taillights are considered markers by day or
by night.
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9.18 Number Boards -
Locomotives are required to display
number boards or number lights. When an engine consists of more
than one unit or when two or more engines are coupled, the number
of only one unit will be illuminated as the identifying number.
When practical, use the leading unit.
9.19 Ditch Lights
When a leading locomotive is not equipped
with ditch lights, it cannot cross a public grade crossing faster than
20 mph.
9.20 Observe and Call Signals and Conditions-
Crew members
in the cabs of engines must be alert for, and communicate to, each
other in a clear and audible manner the name or aspect of each
signal affecting the movement of their train as soon as it becomes
visible or audible. They must continue to observe signals and call
any change of indication until passed. If prompt action is not taken
to the respective signal, crew members must remind the engineer
of the rule requirement. They must also observe and call out
conditions of the track ahead including the state of tunnels, cuts,
crossings, etc.
9.21 Shoving
- When shoving occupied passenger equipment, a
back-up valve is required.
9.22 Cars Shoved -
When cars are shoved over road crossings at
grade, a crew member must be on the ground at the crossing to
warn traffic until the crossing is occupied. The movement can only
enter the crossing on the crew member’s signal.
9.22.1
Such warning is not required when:
A.
Crossing gates are in the fully lowered position
or
B.
It is clearly seen that no traffic is approaching or
it is already stopped at the crossing.
9.23 Automatic Warning Devices -
Under any of the following
conditions, a movement must not foul a crossing equipped with
automatic warning devices until the device has been operating long
enough to provide warning and the crossing gates, if equipped, are
fully lowered:
A. Movement has stopped within 3,000 feet of the crossing.
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B. Movement is within 3,000 feet of the crossing and speed
has increased by more than 5 mph.
C. Movement is closely following another movement.
D. Movement is on other than the main track or siding.
E. Movement enters a main track or siding within 3,000
feet of the crossing.
Employees must observe all automatic warning devices and report
any that are malfunctioning to the train dispatcher or responsible
manager by the first available means of communication. Notify
all affected trains as soon as possible.
9.23.1 Automatic Warning Devices Malfunctioning
A. IF
the crew is notified that the crossing warning
system has an activation failure or that the crossing
warning system has been disabled, and an equipped
flagger is not at the crossing to provide warning.
THEN
Stop before occupying the crossing. After a
crew member is on the ground at the crossing to
warn highway traffic, proceed over the crossing on
hand signals from that crew member. Then proceed
at normal speed after picking up crew member.
B. IF
The crew is notified that the crossing has one
or more equipped flaggers who are able to provide
warning in all directions of approaching traffic.
THEN
Proceed over the crossing at normal speed
without stopping.
NOTE:
An equipped flagger is a person other than a crew member
who is equipped with an orange vest, orange shirt or orange jacket.
At night, the vest, shirt or jacket must be reflective. The flagger
must have a red flag or stop paddle by day and a light at night.
When advised by the train dispatcher or responsible manager that
the automatic warning devices are repaired or returned to service,
these restrictions no longer apply.
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9.23.2. Whistle for Crossing
When notified that
automatic warning devices are malfunctioning, sound
whistle signal regardless of any prohibition.
.24 Display of Yellow Flag
Yellow flags warn trains to restrict
movement because of track conditions or structures. To make sure
that train movement is restricted at the correct location, employees
must display a yellow flag a ¼ mile before the restricted area.
When a yellow flag is displayed and the restriction is not specified
by a track bulletin, track warrant, train order or general order,
before the leading edge of the movement is a ¼ mile beyond the
yellow flag, the speed must not exceed 10 mph. Resume speed only
after the rear of the movement has passed a green flag.
9.25 Display of Yellow-Red Flag
Yellow-red flags warn the
train to be prepared to stop because of men or equipment. To make
sure the train is prepared to stop at the correct location; employees
must display a yellow red flag ¼ mile before the restricted
area.
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9.26 Display of Red Flag
- A red flag will be displayed at locations
where trains must stop as required on a track warrant, train order,
track bulletin, general order or due to other conditions. Trains must
stop short of the red flag and may not proceed unless authorized
by the employee in charge. If authority to proceed is received
before stop is made, trains may pass the red flag without stopping.
9.27 Torpedoes
- Unless further directed, the use of torpedoes as
a signaling device or for any other reason will not be an accepted
form of signaling on this railroad.
9.28 Fusee Flare
- Unless further directed, the use of fusee flares
as a signaling device or for any other reason will not be an accepted
form of signaling on this railroad. Chemical light stick fusees will
be used in place of fusee flares.
9.29 East Ely Wig-Wag Signals
- The Wig-Wag signals in the
East Ely yard are radio controlled. All base or hand-held radios
will activate the wig-wag signals by keying the radio’s mic button
three times on channel 1. All trains, hi-rail vehicles, speeders and
handcars going through that crossing will activate the signals
before entering the crossing. Once the wig-wag signal has
activated, it will run for 90 seconds and then turn off.
9.29.1
Before entering the
wig-wag crossing, it is the
engineer’s responsibility to
key the locomotive’s radio
mic three times before
blowing the whistle for the
crossing. Locomotive radios
have a longer transmitting
distance than handheld radios.
If necessary, a brakeman or
conductor can activate the
wig-wag signals with their
radios.
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Section 10.0 - Railroad Radio Rules
10.1
Accepted Communication Methods
- Radio communication
between train crew members is an accepted method of
communication. When either hand, lantern signals or radio signals
are used, all crew members must know which system of
communication is being used. Understand that while using the
radio, the engineer will not accept any hand or lantern signals
unless they are stop signals. When changing between hand or
lantern signals and radio signals, all crew members involved must
acknowledge the change prior to using that form of
communication.
10.1.1 Radio Communications
All radio
communications shall be kept as short of possible using a
minimum of words.
10.1.2 Acknowledgment
Engineers will not use the
whistle to acknowledge radio signals.
10.2 Prohibited Transmissions
- No employees shall knowingly
transmit any false emergency communication, any unnecessary,
irrelevant, or unidentified communication, nor utter any obscene,
indecent, or profane language via the radio.
10.2.1 -
The use of ten codes is prohibited.
10.2.2 -
The use of the word “Copy” is prohibited.
10.3 Emergency Calls
- Any emergency call will be preceded by
the word 'Emergency' repeated three times. Such calls shall be used
only to cover initial reports of derailments, collisions, storms,
washouts, fires, obstructions to track, or other matters which would
cause serious delay to traffic, damage property, or injury to
employees or the public, and shall contain as complete information
thereon as possible. All employees shall give absolute priority to
communications to a station or radio location in distress and,
except in answering or aiding that station, shall refrain from
sending any communication until there is assurance that no
interference will result.
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10.4 Transmitting -
Before transmitting, employees operating the
radio must listen a sufficient interval to be sure the channel is not
already in use, give required identification and listen for
acknowledgement from the employee for whom the transmission
is intended and must not proceed with the transmission until such
acknowledgment is secured. Always speak slowly, clearly and
audibly when using the radio.
10.5 Repetition
An employee who receives a transmission must
repeat it to the person transmitting the message, except when:
1. The communication concerns yard operations or is
general and does not contain any information, instruction
or advice that could safely affect the safety of the railroad
operation.
2. If it is a continuous movement of four cars or less.
10.6 Identification
- Employees transmitting or acknowledging a
radio communication must begin with the required identification.
In radio communication the first transmission is made to identify
who is transmitting and then to whom the transmission is intended.
Example: "Smith to Anderson, over." Smith is the transmitting
employee calling for Anderson.
Initiation: "NN 93 to NN Conductor 93, Over" (for
example)
Response: "NN Conductor 93, answering NN 93, Over"
Termination: "Conductor 93, Out" and "93, Out"
10.6.1 -
Engine number must be included in every
transmission.
10.7 Over
- To indicate to the receiving employee the transmission
is ended and that a response is expected. The transmitting
employee must say the word 'over'.
10.8 Out -
To indicate to the receiving employee that the exchange
of transmissions is complete and that no response is expected. The
transmitting employee must state his identification followed by the
word 'out'.
10.9 Misuse
- Radio communication must not be used to avoid
compliance with any rule or hand signal.
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10.10 Communication Not Understood or Incomplete
An
employee who does not understand a radio communication or who
receives a communication that is incomplete must not act upon the
communication and must treat it as if it were not sent.
EXCEPTION: An employee who receives information that
may affect the safety of employees, the public or cause damage
to property must take the safe course. When necessary, stop
movement until the communication is understood.
10.11 Monitoring Radio Transmissions
Radios in attended
base stations or mobile units must be turned on to the appropriate
channel with volume loud enough to receive communication.
Employees attending base stations or mobile units must
acknowledge all transmission directed to the station or unit.
10.12 Acknowledgement
An employee receiving a radio call
must acknowledge the call immediately, unless doing so would
interfere with safety.
10.13 Testing
All radios on either equipment or personnel must
be tested prior to beginning any operations. The test must include
the ability to contact one of the Nevada Northern Railway base
stations either the shop or the dispatcher.
10.14 Blasting Operations -
Radio transmission must not be made
when located less than 500 feet from blasting operations.
10.15 Movement by Radio
- When train or engine movements are
to be made in response to radio communication, such as in
switching operations or picking up or setting out cars, specific
instructions must be given for each movement.
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10.15.1 Direction and Distance -
When controlling a
movement by radio, direction and distance must be given.
Direction must refer to either the locomotive direction or
geographic direction but
not
both in the same transmission.
Refer to rules 14.1 through 14.6.
10.15.2 Geographic Direction -
Is either railroad north or
south.
10.15.3 Car Length
- When a distance to be given is
greater than fifty feet, the distance should be given in car
lengths. One car length equals fifty feet.
When backing or shoving trains, engines or cars, the direction
and distance of the movement must be specific and movement
must be stopped within one half of the specified distance unless
additional instructions are received. Failure to maintain radio
contact with the employee directing the movement must be
considered a stop signal.
10.16 Phonetic Alphabet
If necessary, a phonetic alphabet
(Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, etc) will be used to clearly pronounce any
letter used as an initial.
10.16.1 The Phonetic Alphabet
A – Alpha H Hotel O Oscar V- Victor
B Bravo I – India P Papa W - Whiskey
C Charlie J Juliet Q – Quebec X - X-Ray
D Delta K Kilo R Romeo Y – Yankee
E Echo L Lima S Sierra Z Zulu
F – Foxtrot M – Mike T- Tango
G Golf N – November U - Uniform
10.17 Mandatory Directive
Mandatory directives are written
authorities for occupying a main track or speed restrictions which
affect the movement of equipment. Mandatory directives are:
A. Track Warrants
B. Train Orders
C. Track Bulletins
D. Timetable
E. Radio Speed Restrictions
Version 21.0 87
When transmitted by radio, mandatory directives must be
transmitted according to applicable operating rules and the
following:
1.
The train dispatcher must state which mandatory
directive will be transmitted.
2.
The employee must inform the train dispatcher when
ready to copy stating the employee’s name, identification,
and exact location on the main track or where the main
track will be entered. An employee operating the controls
of a moving engine may not copy mandatory directives. In
addition, mandatory directives must not be transmitted to
the crew of a moving train if the conductor, engineer, or
train dispatcher feels that the transmission could adversely
affect the safe operation of the train.
3.
The employee receiving a mandatory directive must
copy it in writing using the format outlined in the operating
rules.
4.
Before a mandatory directive is acted upon, the
conductor and engineer must each have a written copy and
each crew member must read and understand it.
5.
Mandatory directives that have been fulfilled or canceled
shall be marked in accordance with applicable operating
rules and retained for the duration of that crew’s tour of
duty.
10.18 Assigned Frequencies -
NNRy must authorize any radio
transmitters used in railroad service. Radio transmitters must
operate on frequencies the Federal Communications Commission
assigns the railroad. Employees are prohibited from using other
transmitters or railroad frequencies not assigned to that particular
territory.
10.18.1 Channels
The assigned channels are as follows:
Channel 1: Road, ARR Channel 84-84
Channel 2: Aux./Emergency, ARR Channel 10-10
Channel 3: Repeater, not used
Channel 4: Yard/Auxiliary, ARR Channel 73-73
10.19 Malfunctioning Radio
Malfunctioning radios must not be
used. As soon as possible, notify each crew member and the train
88 Version 21.0
dispatcher or other affected employees that the radio is not
working. If a radio fails on the controlling locomotive en route, the
train may continue until the earlier of:
A.
The next calendar day inspection or;
B.
The nearest forward point where the radio can be
repaired or replaced.
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Section 11.0 Blue Signal Protection of Workmen
This rule outlines the requirements for protecting railroad
workmen who are inspecting, testing, repairing, and servicing
rolling equipment. In particular, because these tasks require the
workmen to work on, under, or between rolling equipment,
workmen are exposed to potential injury from moving equipment.
As used in this rule, the following definitions apply:
Workmen -
Railroad employees assigned to inspect, test, repair,
or service railroad rolling equipment or components, including
brake systems. Train and yard crews are excluded, except when
they perform the above work on rolling equipment not part of the
train or yard movement they are handling or will handle.
“Servicing” does not include supplying cabooses, engine, or
passenger cars with items such as ice, drinking water, tools,
sanitary supplies, stationery, or flagging equipment.
“Testing” does not include an employee making visual
observations while on or alongside a caboose, engine, or passenger
car.
Group of Workmen -
Two or more workmen of the same or
different crafts who work as a unit under a common authority and
communicate with each other while working.
Rolling Equipment -
Engines, cars, and one or more engines
coupled to one or more cars.
Blue Signal -
During the day, a clearly distinguishable blue flag,
or light. At night, a blue light. The blue light may be steady or
flashing. The blue signal does not need to be lighted when it is
attached to the operating controls of an engine and the inside of the
engine cab area is lighted enough to make the blue signal clearly
distinguishable.
Effective Locking Device -
When used in relation to a manually
operated switch or a derail, a lock that can be locked or unlocked
only by the craft or group of workmen applying the lock. A
general service lock is not an effective locking device.
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Car Shop Repair Area -
One or more tracks within an area where
rolling equipment testing, servicing, repairing, inspecting, or
rebuilding is controlled exclusively by mechanical department
personnel.
Engine Servicing Area -
One or more tracks within an area where
engine testing, servicing, repairing, inspecting, or rebuilding is
controlled exclusively by mechanical department personnel.
Switch Providing Direct Access -
A switch that if used by rolling
equipment could permit the rolling equipment to couple to the
equipment being protected.
11.1 What a Blue Signal Signifies -
A blue signal signifies that
workmen are on, under, or between rolling equipment and requires
that:
1.
Rolling equipment must not be coupled to, or moved,
except as provided in
Section 11.7 Movement in Engine
Servicing Area
and
Section 11.8 Movement in Car Shop
Repair Area
.
2.
Rolling equipment must not pass a blue signal on a track
protected by the signal.
3.
Other rolling equipment must not be placed on the same
track so as to block or reduce the view of the blue signal.
However, rolling equipment may be placed on the same
track when it is placed on designated engine servicing area
tracks or car shop repair area track, or when a derail divides
a track into separate working areas.
4.
Rolling equipment must not enter a track when a blue
signal is displayed at the entrance to the track. Blue signals
or remote-control blue signals must be displayed for each
craft or group of workmen who will work on, under, or
between rolling equipment.
5.
Caboose 22 will be blue flagged when there are caboose
lodgers staying. Guest services will place the flag when
checking the guest in and will remove the flag during check
out. When there is a rental with train, they are responsible
for ensuring the guest has checked out and vacated the
caboose one hour prior to the scheduled departure time.
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11.2 Protection Removed -
Blue signals may be removed only by
the craft or group who placed them. Remote control display may
be discontinued when directed by the craft or group that requested
the protection. When blue signal protection has been removed
from one entrance of a double-ended track or from either end of
rolling equipment on a main track, that track is no longer under
blue signal protection.
11.3 How to Provide Protection -
When workmen are on, under,
or between rolling equipment and exposed to potential injury,
protection must be provided as follows:
On a Main Track -
A blue signal must be displayed at
each end of the rolling equipment.
On Other than a Main Track -
One of these three
methods of protection or a combination of these methods
must be provided:
A.
Each manually operated switch, including any
facing point crossover switch that provides direct
access must be lined against movement onto the
track and secured by an effective locking device. A
blue signal must be placed at or near each such
switch.
B.
A derail capable of restricting access to the track
where work will occur must be locked in derailing
position with an effective locking device and:
Positioned at least 50 feet from the end of
rolling equipment on a designated engine
servicing track or car shop repair track
where speed is limited to not more than 5
mph. A blue signal must be displayed at
each derail.
11.4 Blue Signal Readily Visible to Engineer -
In addition to
providing protection as required in
“On a Main Track”
and
“On
other than a Main Track”
, when workmen are on, under, or
between an engine or rolling equipment coupled to an engine:
A.
A blue signal must be attached to the controlling engine
and be visible to the engineer or employee controlling the
engine.
B.
The engine must not be moved.
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11.5 Protection for Workmen Inspecting Markers -
Blue signal
protection must be provided for workmen when they are:
A.
Replacing, repositioning, or repairing a marker and the
rear of the train is on any track.
11.6 Protection for Emergency Repair Work on a Main Track
-
If a blue signal is not available for employees performing
emergency repairs on, under, or between an engine and rolling
equipment coupled to an engine on a main track, the employee
controlling the engine must be notified and appropriate measures
taken to provide protection for the employees.
11.7 Movement in Engine Servicing Area -
An engine must not
enter a designated engine servicing area until the blue signal
protection is removed from the entrance. The engine must stop
short of coupling to another engine. An engine must not leave a
designated engine servicing area unless the blue signal is removed
from the engine and the track in the direction of movement. Blue
signal protection removed to let engines enter or leave the engine
servicing area must be restored immediately after the engine enters
or clears the area. An engine protected by blue signals may be
moved on a designated engine servicing area track when:
A.
Workmen have been warned of the movement
B.
The blue signal has been removed from the controlling
engine to be repositioned.
C.
An authorized employee operates the engine under the
direction of the employee in charge of workmen.
11.8 Movement in Car Shop Repair Area -
When rolling
equipment on car shop repair tracks is protected by blue signals, a
car mover may reposition the equipment if:
A.
Workmen have been warned of the movement.
B.
An authorized employee operates the car mover under
the direction of the employee in charge of workmen.
11.9 Repair Tracks -
A blue signal must be placed at the entrance
of the switch to a repair track or a car shop when workers are
working on, under or between rolling equipment. Each manually
operated switch providing access to the track must be lined against
Version 21.0 93
movement to the track and secured with an effective locking
device. Rolling equipment protected by a blue signal on a car shop
or repair tracks which are under exclusive control of the operating
forces may be repositioned with a car mover when operated by an
authorized employee under the direction of the Mechanical
Supervisor in charge of the workers, after the workers on the track
have been notified and are clear of the movement. Rolling
equipment must not be placed on repair tracks or in car shops until
it is known that all employees are clear of the track on which the
movement is to be made. The derail frog on the repair or engine
house tracks must also be placed in the derail position with the
locking flag inserted in the derail whenever blue signal protection
is being used in this area. If no blue flags are displayed on a track
in the servicing area, the derail on that track may be removed.
11.10 Nevada State Flag
At times the Nevada state flag may be
flown on the train for ceremonial or decorative purposes. The state
flag will not be considered a blue flag under this section. All crew
members must familiarize themselves with the appearance of the
state flag.
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Section 12.0 - Dispatching
12.1 Duties of Train Dispatchers
Train dispatchers supervise
train movement and any employees connected with that
movement. Dispatchers report directly to the Superintendent and
Trainmaster. Dispatchers are allowed to write and authorize train
orders, track warrants, track bulletin Form A and Form B, assign
crews to trains, authorize switch moves, and make switching
assignments.
12.2 Dispatcher's Duties -
Dispatchers shall comply with all
museum rules, policies, and procedures. Dispatchers are not
allowed to make or change company policy, make exceptions to
the rules, allow others to make exceptions to the rules, or in any
way endanger the image or reputation of the museum except under
the authority of the responsible manager. Dispatchers are
considered 'operating practices managers.' As such, dispatchers are
allowed to make decisions regarding the everyday operation of
trains and equipment on the museum right of way without altering
company policies, rules, or procedures. Employee-related issues
are not to be taken to the dispatchers, nor shall dispatchers
entertain employee related issues as they pertain to company
policies, rules, or procedures. Dispatchers are not part of the 'core
chain of command.'
12.3 Dispatching Duties
- The dispatcher is charged with the duty
of making sure that train movements are made safely and in a
manner that will keep our employees, guests, and equipment safe
at all times. Dispatchers shall fill out the Dispatchers Check List
every day.
12.4 Dispatchers Direct Train Movements
- Dispatchers must
direct all train and track crew movements. Each movement shall
be recorded daily in the Dispatcher’s Record of movement form.
In the absence of a dispatcher, dispatching duties will then be
assigned to the COO, Superintendent or the Trainmaster.
12.5 Crew Assignments
- The COO, Superintendent or
Trainmaster will make all crew and operating assignments. If a
crew change needs to be made while the COO, Superintendent or
Version 21.0 95
Trainmaster are off the property, dispatchers can assign
replacement crew members, if such member is qualified for that
position. Dispatchers are allowed to contact crews to inform them
of their call times.
12.6 Dispatcher’s Instructions
- Train crews are to follow all
instructions as given by the dispatchers.
12.7 Hours of Service -
Dispatchers shall sign in on the Hours of
Service Log and shall abide by all hours of service rules.
12.8 Interpretation of Rules
- Dispatchers are not rules officials
and shall not interpret rules. Rule interpretations shall be made by
the COO, Superintendent or Trainmaster.
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Section 13.0 - Timetables, General Orders, Notices,
Safety Bulletins and Track Warrants
13.1 Timetables
- Each Timetable supersedes the preceding
Timetable from the moment the new timetable takes effect and a
General Order is posted. General Orders informing of new
Timetable, Timetable supplements or special instructions must be
posted at least 24 hours prior to the effective time. All Operating
Department crewmembers are required to carry, understand, and
comply with the current Timetable at all times while aboard their
assigned locomotive and/or train.
13.1.1 Movements
- All trains leaving East Ely will be
governed by timetable or train order authority. All trains must
be issued a track warrant. All conductors and engineers must
have a copy of all track bulletins referenced on their track
warrant.
13.2 Effective Life
- Timetable schedules are effective unless
fulfilled or annulled by train orders or abolished by special
instruction for the life of the timetable.
13.3
Rule Changes
- Rules may be issued, canceled, or modified
by General Order as posted by the COO.
13.4 Schedule Time
- Each regularly scheduled, numbered train
has an outbound and an inbound schedule in the Timetable. The
trains are paired. Northbound trains are odd numbered.
Southbound trains are even numbered.
13.5
Train Departure
- A train must not leave the station in
advance of its scheduled leaving time for any reason unless
directed to by dispatcher or orders. Conductors authorize the
departure of the train from the station and notify the dispatcher of
their departure time.
13.6 General Orders, General Notices, Safety Bulletins and
Shop Bulletins-
Will be posted in crew areas, all employees must
review these before beginning their shift. These will be posted in
all crew areas and must be initially by employees prior to starting
their service.
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13.6.1 General Orders
- General Orders change, add to,
or annulled operating rules and/or instructions. They will
be issued and canceled over the signature of the Chief
Operations Officer or designated authority. General Orders
will be posted in books and/or on bulletin boards.
Enginemen, trainmen, and others whose duties require,
must review them before commencing each day’s work or
trip. General Orders will be numbered consecutively
beginning January 1 of each year and will be issued and
canceled by the COO or designated authority and will
expire within the calendar year. General Orders supersedes
any rule or regulation with which they conflict.
13.6.2 General Notices -
General notices are issued as
needed to update crews on qualified persons, changes in
personnel, or other pertinent information on operations.
General Notices will be numbered consecutively beginning
January 1 of each year and will be issued and cancelled by
the COO or designated authority and will expire within the
calendar year.
13.6.3 Safety Bulletins -
Safety bulletins contain a rule
review, safety tip and advice of any safety concerns. The
bulletins will be reviewed at staff meetings and posted in
books with the Orders and Notices. It is the responsibility
of every employee to review the bulletins and initials in the
margins that they have read them. Safety Bulletins will be
issued by the Superintendent and/or Trainmaster and will
be numbered consecutively beginning January 1 of each
year and will expire within the calendar year. The
responsible manager will conduct the weekly rule review
with all train crews during the crew meetings.
13.6.4 Shop Bulletins
Shop bulletins contain mechanical
and operational announcements and instructions. It is the
responsibility of every employee to review the bulletins
and initials in the margins that they have read them. Shop
Bulletins will be issued by the Master Mechanic and will
be numbered consecutively beginning January 1 of each
year and will expire within the calendar year.
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13.7 Temporary Restrictions
- Temporary restrictions will be
posted as a bulletin under the signature of the Dispatcher. Crews
must look at the bulletin board before working on or moving any
rolling equipment. Bulletins are posted in the crew room.
13.8 Clearances, Train Orders, Track Warrant and Track
Bulletins Constituting Operating Forms -
For movements
requiring their use, the dispatcher will issue them and they will
contain only information and instructions essential to such
movements. They must be brief and clear, in prescribed form
without erasure, alteration, or intermediation. Operating Forms
will be plainly written, and brackets, circles or other characters
must not surround figures. Operating Forms must be given in the
same words to all employees addressed.
Figure 13.8 Example of Train Order
Version 21.0 99
13.9 Checking Accuracy -
Immediately upon receipt of Operating
Forms, they must be carefully checked for accuracy by those
addressed and then by other crewmembers. It must be known that
they are properly addressed and that the clearance corresponds
with the Operating Form received. All crewmembers are
responsible for complying with the requirements of all Operating
Forms and reminding each other of their content. Any errors,
omissions, or misunderstanding of Operating Forms must be
immediately corrected. If crewmembers are uncertain regarding
the meaning of any order, the crew must call an officer in charge
for a re-confirmation of the order.
13.10 Retaining Operating Forms -
Operating Forms must be
retained by the Dispatcher. The crew can discard their operating
forms at the end of their tour of duty once they have released their
track warrants.
13.11 Relieved During Trip -
When a conductor or engineer or
both is relieved before completion of a trip, all Operating Forms
held by them must be delivered to the relieving party. Relieving
crewmembers before proceeding must compare such Forms.
13.12 Required Authority -
A train must not leave its initial
station without required authority which can be timetable authority
or train order and a track warrant.
13.13 Operating Forms
- Operating Forms must be filled out in
duplicate by the dispatcher, showing thereon, without erasure or
alteration. Operating Form number, date, station and the numbers
of each Operating Form, if any, are addressed to that train. If
correct, the responsible manager will give OK time and his initial.
Any line not used will be left blank. A copy of each Operating
Form must be retained for the office file.
13.14 Train Orders in Effect -
Train Orders continue in effect
until fulfilled, superseded, or annulled. Any part of a Train Order
specifying a particular movement may be suspended or annulled.
Complying with its requirements fulfills a train order. A Train
Order may cancel, modify, or issue a special instruction.
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13.15 Siding Meeting Point
- At meeting points established by
Train Orders, the Order must specify which train will take the
siding and which train will hold the main line.
13.16 Track Warrant Control
When trains are being dispatched
under track warrant control (TWC), the dispatcher shall give this
warrant. All track moves on the mainline shall be made under
Track Warrant Control.
13.17 Authority to Enter TWC Limits -
Where designated by the
timetable or train order, a track warrant will authorize main track
use under the direction of the train dispatcher. Track warrant
instructions must be followed in yard limits.
13.18 Designated Limits -
Track warrant limits must be
designated by specifying tracks, where required, and exact points
such as switches, mile posts, or identifiable points. However,
station names may be used as follow:
A. First Named Point -
When a station name designates
the first named point, authority extends from and includes
the last siding switch. Authority extends from the station
sign if no siding exists.
B. Last Named Point -
When a station name designates
the last named point, authority extends to and includes the
first siding switch. Authority extends to the station sign if
no siding exists.
13.19 Operating with Track Warrants
- A track warrant
authorizes a train or engine to occupy the main track within
designated limits. However, the train or engine must not foul a
switch at either end of the limits where an opposing train may use
the same switch to clear the main track. See figure 9.19
The train or engine must move as follows:
1.
Proceed from one point to another in the direction the
track warrant specifies. When a crew member informs the
train dispatcher that the entire train has passed a specific
point, track warrant authority is considered void up to that
point or;
Version 21.0 101
2.
If authorized to “WORK BETWEEN” two specific
points, the train or engine may move in either direction
between those points.
13.19.1 Leaving the Main Track-
A train authorized to
proceed in one direction must inform the train dispatcher
when it leaves the main track before reaching the last
named point, unless a crew member is left to prevent a
following movement from passing.
13.20 Occupying Same Track Warrant Limits -
A track warrant
must not be issued to a train within the same or overlapping limits
with another train unless:
1.
In non-signaled territory, all trains are authorized to
proceed in the same direction and are instructed to move at
restricted speed.
2.
Two or more trains are authorized to “WORK
BETWEEN” two specific points at restricted speed within
the overlapping limits or;
3.
Trains are authorized to proceed through the limits of
another train authorized to “WORK BETWEEN” two
specific points, and track warrants instruct all trains to
move at restricted speed within the overlapping
limits.Where track warrant authority includes yard limits,
the terms of Yard Limits apply, but track warrant
instructions must be followed.
13.21 Protecting Men or Equipment -
Men or equipment may
receive a track warrant in the same manner as trains to occupy or
perform maintenance on the main track without other protection.
A track warrant must not be issued to protect men or equipment
within the same or overlapping limits with a train unless:
1.
All trains are authorized to proceed in one direction
only, and the track warrant specifies that men or equipment
do not foul limits ahead of these trains or;
2.
All trains authorized are notified of the men or
equipment and have been instructed to move at restricted
speed. Also, a track warrant must inform the employee in
charge of men or equipment about the trains. If the track
is not safe for trains to move at restricted speed, the
102 Version 21.0
employee must protect the track with red flags according
to Rule 9.26 (Display of Red Flag).
13.22 Reporting Clear of Limits -
A train must report clear of
the limits or report having passed a specific location only when it
is known the train is completely clear. This must be determined
by a crew member who can observe the rear car of the train.
In addition, a train clearing in a siding or other track must comply
with requirements outlined in Rule 16.9 (Main Track Switches)
before reporting clear of the limits.
Version 21.0 103
Figure 13.19
NNRy TRACK WARRANT
NO:________________ DATE: ______________________
TO:________________ AT:_________________________
1.
TRACK WARRANT NO(S) IS/ARE
VOID
2.
PROCEED FROM TO
____________________
AND RETURN TO
3.
PROCEED FROM TO
____________________
4.
WORK BETWEEN AND
________________ _
5.
NOT IN EFFECT UNTIL _______________________________________
6.
THIS AUTHORITY EXPIRES AT __________________________
7.
NOT IN EFFECT UNTIL AFTER ARRIVAL OF______________________
AT___________________________
8.
HOLD MAIN TRACK AT LAST NAMED POINT
9.
DO NOT FOUL LIMITS AHEAD OF ______________________
10.
CLEAR MAIN TRACK AT LAST NAMED POINT
11.
THIS TRACK WARRANT REQUIRES A MEET WITH_____________
AT ____________________________
12.
BETWEEN AND
MAKE
ALL MOVEMENTS AT RESTRICTED SPEED. LIMITS OCCUPIED BY TRAIN
13.
DO NOT EXCEED_____________MPH BETWEEN _________________
AND
14.
DO NOT EXCEED_____________MPH BETWEEN
__________________
AND
15.
FLAG PROTECTION NOT REQUIRED AGAINST FOLLOWING TRAINS
ON THE SAME TRACK
16.
TRACK BULLETINS IN EFFECT _______, _______, _______, _______.
17.
OTHER SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS:
__________________________________________
TOTAL BOXES USED_____________.
BOXES MARKED ARE: ______, ______, ______, ______, _____, _____,.
OK_______________DISPATCHER ______________________________
RELAYED TO ______________ COPIED BY: _______________________
LIMITS REPORTED CLEAR AT_____________ BY __________________
(MARK “X” IN BOX FOR EACH ITEM INSTRUCTED)
104 Version 21.0
13.23 Train Order and Track Warrant Requests -
An employee
who requests a train order and/or track warrant must inform the
train dispatcher what movements will be made and, when
necessary, which tracks will be used and how much time is
required.
13.24 Copying Track Warrants -
The conductor and the engineer
must each have a copy of the track warrant issued to their train and
each crew member must read and understand it. The copy must
show the date, location, and name of the employee who copied it.
The following must occur when transmitted verbally:
A. Transmitting Track Warrants
1. An employee will enter all of the information and
instructions on the track warrant.
2. The employee will repeat the information to the
train dispatcher.
3. The train dispatcher will check it and, if correct,
will say “OK” and give the time and his initials.
4. The employee will enter the “OK” time and the
train dispatcher’s initials on the track warrant and
repeat them to the train dispatcher.
B. In Effect
1. The track warrant is not in effect until the “OK
time is shown on it.
2. If the track warrant restricts movement or
previously granted authority, it cannot be
considered in effect by the train dispatcher until
acknowledgment of the “OK” has been received.
13.25 Duplicating Track Warrants -
Employees who reproduce
track warrants with a duplicating machine do not need to repeat
them to the train dispatcher.
Duplicated track warrants must not be delivered or used until they
are checked and verified as legible and duplicated in their entirety.
13.26 Track Warrant in Effect -
A track warrant is in effect until
the conductor reports the train has cleared the limits, or the track
warrant is made void. The conductor must inform the train
dispatcher when the train has cleared the limits.
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13.26.1 Time Limit Shown -
If the track warrant shows a
time limit, the train must clear the limits by the time
specified, unless another track warrant is obtained.
13.27 Changing Track Warrants -
Employees must not add to or
alter the track warrant in any manner, unless instructed to do so by
the on-duty dispatcher.
The only items that can be changed on a track warrant are:
1. Locomotive number
2. Time and Date
3. Speed
When the limits or instructions of a track warrant must be changed,
a new track warrant must be issued showing, “Track Warrant
No._____ is void”. When a track warrant of a previous date is
voided, the date must be included. The previous track warrant will
no longer be in effect.
13.28 Voiding Track Warrants -
A crew member must write
“VOID” ACROSS EACH COPY OF THE TRACK WARRANT
WHEN THE TRAIN HAS REPORTED CLEAR OF THE
LIMITS OR THE TRACK WARRANT HAS BEEN MADE
VOID.
13.29 Mechanical Transmission of Track Warrants -
Repetition
is not required when track warrants are transmitted mechanically.
The “OK” time will be given when the track warrant is issued. The
space for the name of the copying employee may be left blank.
Track warrants that restrict the authority or movement of a train
must not be transmitted mechanically, unless the train being
restricted will not leave the point without receiving the track
warrant.
106 Version 21.0
Section 14.0 Locomotive Direction, Terms and
Movement of Trains, Engines and Other Equipment
Locomotive Direction is defined as
On diesel locomotives, the
front of the locomotive is designated by the letter ‘F’ and steam
locomotives are designated by the pilot
.”
14.1 Locomotives 105,
109, 201, 310 and 801
On Locomotives 105,
109, 201 and 801 the
long hood is forward.
When the “proceed”
signal is given, these
locomotives will move
towards the right side
of the photo.
14.2 Locomotive 204
and 401
On
Locomotive 204 and
401 the short hood is
forward. When the
“proceed” signal is
given, these
locomotives will move
towards the right side
of the photo.
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14.3 Locomotive 35 -
On Locomotive 35
front is designated by
the letter F.
14.4 Steam
Locomotives
On
steam locomotives, the
front is designated by
the steam locomotive’s
pilot. When the
“proceed” signal is
given, a steam
locomotive will move
towards the viewer of the photo.
14.5 Directional Terms for Forward -
Moving a locomotive or
train in a forward direction as defined by the locomotive front - F
on a diesel pilot or the pilot on a steam locomotive, acceptable
terms are:
a) Ahead
b) Forward
c) Proceed
14.6 Directional Terms for Reverse -
To move a locomotive or
train backwards or in reverse as defined by the locomotive front,
acceptable terms are:
a) Back
b) Reverse
c) Shove
d) Push
14.7 Main Track Authorization
- Main tracks must not be
occupied unless authorized by proper Form and Authority.
108 Version 21.0
14.7.1 Initiating Movement
Before initiating movement
on a main track, a train must have the following authority:
a. Timetable or Train Order and
b. Track warrant (See figure 13.19) and any track
bulletins that are required.
14.7.2 Train Location -
Trains or maintenance of way
employees who receive authority to occupy the main track
after the arrival of a train or to follow a train must ascertain
the train’s location by one of the following methods:
a. Visual identification of the train.
b. Direct communication with a crew member of
the train.
c. Receiving information about the train from the
train dispatcher or control operator.
d. Observing chemical light stick fusses or flagmen
from leading trains.
14.8 Yard Limit
The yard limits of the East Ely terminal are
designated with the existing chevron shaped yard limit signs.
Within the East Ely yard limit, trains, engines, track equipment, hi-
rail vehicles, motorcars, railbikes, handcars and velocipedes may
use the main track. A passenger or freight train operating in the
East Ely Yard is superior to all other equipment and must not be
delayed.
14.8.1 Designated Service Area
Is defined as starting at
the north switch of the ladder track, the engine house lead
(south of this switch,) the ladder track, and the mainline
south of the south ladder track switch and all tracks heading
south off the ladder track and the ashpit track.
14.9 Engine
– A locomotive propelled by any form of energy.
14.10 Train
An engine, with or without cars, hi-rail vehicle,
MOW equipment, speeder or handcar, operating under timetable
or train order authority with a track warrant.
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14.11 Direction of Movement
Dictated by either the direction
of the locomotive or geographic direction.
14.11.1
Locomotive Direction
- On diesel locomotives,
the front of the locomotive is designated by the letter ‘F.
On steam locomotives, the front is designated by the pilot.
14.11.2 Geographic Direction
Is either railroad north or
south.
14.12 Direction of Railroad –
The Nevada Northern Railway is a
north south railroad. Trains heading away from Sunshine
(Keystone) are northbound. Trains heading toward Sunshine
(Keystone) are southbound.
14.13 Speed Limits
The following are the maximum speed
limits allowed on this railroad. Conductors and engineers are
jointly responsible for the operation of their train or engine and the
speed limits must be followed. When conditions require, it is the
responsibility of the conductor and the engineer to operate at a
slower speed that is safe for the existing conditions.
14.13.1 Coupling and Building Speed
- Speed is no
greater than 2 mph for coupling or moving inside a building
or within 250 feet of any gate or doorway.
14.13.2 Main Yard, East Ely Wye, and Designated
Service Area
speed is restricted to no greater than 5 mph,
except for the close clearance point on the northeast corner
of the RIP and on the team track from the railroad north
end of the parking lot to the railroad south end of the freight
barn where the speed is restricted to no greater than 2 mph.
14.13.3 North Yard Speed
The yard tracks railroad
north (east) of the gravel service road crossings is 10 mph.
14.13.4 Close Clearance Speed
Tunnel #1 and Highline
Cut: Approach and enter at no greater than 8 mph until the
leading edge of the movement is clear of the close
clearance.
14.13.5 Keystone Branch Speed
Keystone Branch is
defined as starting at switch 11, speed is no greater than 15
mph for passenger trains. For freight or mixed trains, the
speed limit is no greater than 10 mph. Keystone wye speed
is 10 mph including the track between the wye switches.
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14.13.6 Mainline Speed
The mainline is defined as
starting at the Avenue F crossing, speed is no greater than
15 mph for passenger trains. For freight or mixed trains,
the speed limit is no greater than 10 mph. From the Avenue
C crossing to the Avenue F crossing (Bath Lumber), the
speed limit is restricted to no greater than 10 mph.
14.13.7
Adverse Branch Speed
Adverse Branch is
defined as starting at Hiline Junction, speed is no greater
than 15 mph for passenger trains. For freight or mixed
trains, the speed limit is no greater than 10 mph.
14.13.8
Engine House Track at RIP Building
Track
speed will not exceed 2 mph when passing the northeast
corner of the RIP building.
14.14 Protect Trains
- Trains and engines must be protected
against any known condition which may interfere with their safety.
When conditions exist which may impair visibility or affect the
condition of track or structure, speed must be regulated to ensure
safe passage and to ensure observance and compliance with signal
indications. In case of unusually heavy rain, snow, storm or high
water, trains and engines approaching bridges, culverts, and other
such points likely to be affected by such conditions must be
prepared to stop. If unable to proceed safely, movement must be
stopped and not resumed until safe. The responsible manager must
be advised of such conditions by the first available means of
communication.
14.15 Protection Against Defects
- If any defect or condition
which might cause an accident is discovered in track, bridges,
culverts, tunnels or if any member of a train or engine crew has
reason to believe that their train or engine has passed over a
dangerous defect, a stop must be made at once, flag protection
provided, and responsible manager notified.
14.16 Water on Tracks
- Trains and engines shall not be operated
over track submerged in water until track has been inspected by a
responsible manager and known to be safe. Engines must not be
operated in excess of 5 MPH through water above the top of the
rail unless the responsible manager dictates a slower speed. Diesel
Version 21.0 111
locomotives are restricted to rail that has no more than three (3)
inches of water covering the rail.
14.17 Handled Safely
- Crew members must be aware of speed of
train or engine, grade conditions and indication of air gauge to
determine that the train or engine is being handled safely and under
control. If necessary, they must take immediate action to bring the
train under control.
14.18 Equipment Restrictions -
The conductor must advise the
engineer of any restriction placed on equipment being handled.
Likewise, the engineer must inform other crew members of
defective equipment prior to train movement.
14.19 Repeat Instructions
An employee who verbally receives
instructions or information about train or engine movements must
repeat them to the person giving the instructions.
14.20 Stopping Clear for Meeting or Passing
- A train that may
be met or passed must stop at least 400 feet from the clearance
point of the facing point the other train will pass over, if train
length permits.
14.21 Calling Attention to Restrictions
At the crew briefing
prior to the movement, the conductor must inform the train crew
that the train may enter an area that is restricted by limits of
authority, train order or track bulletin. The conductor may remind
the engineer at least 1 mile before the restriction is approached.
After passing through the restriction, the conductor or brakemen
will inform the engineer that the train is clear of the restriction. If
the engineer fails to comply with the restrictions on a movement,
the conductor must contact the engineer and order compliance with
the limits of authority, train order or track bulletin.
14.22 Operating Speed Limits
Pursuant to 49 CFR 213.9
Classes of Track: Operating Speed Limits - the following
maximum allowable operating speeds are:
A. Excepted Track- freight 10 mph; passenger-not allowed.
B. Class 1 track- freight & mixed trains 10 mph; passenger
15 mph.
112 Version 21.0
C. Class 2 track- freight and mixed trains 25 mph;
passenger 30 mph.
D. Class 3 track – freight and mixed trains 40 mph;
passenger 60 mph.
14.22.1 Equipment Restrictions
Historic freight
equipment under FRA waivers are restricted to no greater
than 25 mph.
14.23 Movement at Restricted Speed
When a train or engine is
required to move at restricted speed, movement must be made at a
speed that allows stopping within half the range of vision short of
train, engine, railroad car, men or equipment fouling the track, stop
signal or derail or switch lined improperly. Speed will not exceed
15 mph complying with these requirements until the leading
wheels reach a point where movement at restricted speed is no
longer required.
14.24 Inspecting Trains
Employees must periodically inspect
their train and any passing trains. If they detect any of the
following conditions, they must notify crew members by any
available means:
A.
Overheated journals;
B.
Sticking brakes;
C.
Sliding wheels;
D.
Wheels not properly positioned on the rail;
E.
Dragging equipment;
F.
Insecure contents;
G.
Signs of smoke or fire;
H.
Headlight or marker lights improperly displayed;
I.
Any other dangerous condition.
14.25 Blocking Public Crossings
If possible, a standing train or
switching movement must avoid blocking a public crossing longer
than 10 minutes.
Employees must observe all automatic warning devices and
report any that are malfunctioning to the train dispatcher or
responsible manager by the first available means of
communication. Notify all affected trains as soon as possible.
Version 21.0 113
14.26 Derail Location and Position -
Employees in train, engine,
and yard service must know the location of all fixed derails. Train
or engine moving on or entering tracks where fixed derails are
located, must stop at least 50 feet from derail in derailing position.
Movement must not continue until the derail is placed in the non-
derailing position. However, the distance restriction will not apply
in engine servicing areas. Do not make a movement over a derail
in the derailing position. Sidings having hand-thrown derails will
have the derail locked in non-derailing position, except when
engines or cars are left unattended on siding. Lock all derails
equipped with a lock. Derails that are used in conjunction with
Section 11.0 (Blue Signal Protection of Workmen) or roadway
worker protection must be in the derailing position only when their
use is required for such protection. When their use is not required
for protection:
1.
Remove portable derails or
2.
Lock fixed derails in non-derailing position with an
effective locking device.
14.27 Coupling to Passenger Equipment
All locomotives must
stop at least 50 feet from all passenger equipment before coupling
to any passenger equipment. Before coupling to the passenger
equipment, the brakeman will notify any persons on the passenger
equipment that a coupling is about to be made. When coupling to
passenger equipment to make up a scheduled passenger train, the
conductor’s permission must be secured.
14.28 Coupling Locomotive to Train
Locomotives are to be
coupled to their train or ready to depart on a Be the Engineer 45
minutes before train time.
14.28.1 Mechanical Department Notification -
If at 70
minutes before train time it is determined that the
locomotive cannot leave the engine house in time to
couple to the train or depart on a rental, the responsible
manager of the mechanical department is to immediately
notify the responsible manager of the operating
department. The notification should include the reason for
114 Version 21.0
the delay and estimated time before the locomotive will
be to the train.
14.28.2 Operating Department Notification -
Upon
notification from the mechanical department, the
responsible manager of the operating department will
notify the gift shop, dispatcher and the train’s conductor.
14.28.3 Passenger Notification -
The responsible manager
of the operating department will develop a passenger
message regarding the delay. The responsible manager will
then assist the gift shop and train crew in relaying the
message to passengers.
14.29 Winter Operations
Snow and ice create special problems
in operation. When snow and ice are present the following rules
must be followed.
14.29.1 Unplowed Track
In snow depths greater than 12
inches, no equipment will operate on a track until it has
been plowed. Some pieces of equipment are wider than the
plow on locomotive 204, open car 23 is the widest pieces
of operating equipment.
14.29.2 Switches
When snow is present, all switches will
be cleared of snow before equipment goes through the
switch. Switches may be covered by a tarp. If uncovered
by the train crew they should be re-covered when the train
or engine has cleared the switch unless instructed by the
track department not to recover the switch.
Version 21.0 115
Section 15.0 - Track Bulletins
15.1 Track Bulletins
- The train dispatcher will issue track
bulletins as required. Track bulletins will contain information on
all conditions that affect safe train or engine movement. Track
Bulletins may provide protection when main tracks, sidings, or
other tracks which are normally cleared for movement are blocked
with equipment or when hazardous footing, clearance,
construction, or mechanical conditions exist or when a track is to
be removed from service. Forms other than track bulletin Forms A
and B may be used when necessary. See Figure 15.1
15.1.1 Changing Track Bulletins -
Track bulletins must
not be changed.
15.1.2 Receipt and Comparison of Track Bulletins
- The
conductor and engineer must receive a track warrant at
their initial station unless otherwise instructed by the train
dispatcher. All track bulletins that affect their train’s
movement must be listed on the track warrant, unless the
track warrant shows “NONE” or “NO”. The conductor and
engineer must have copies of all track bulletins listed, and
each crew member must read and understand them. At the
initial station, when outbound crew members receive track
warrants and track bulletins from inbound crew members,
the conductor and engineer must compare the track
warrants and track bulletins with each other and with the
train dispatcher before proceeding.
15.2 Protection by Track Bulletin Form B -
Display yellow-red
flags as specified in Rule 4.25 (Display of Yellow-Red Flag). A
crew member must attempt to contact the employee in charge of a
track bulletin Form B by radio to avoid delay before entering the
limits, giving the train’s location and track being used.
While trains are within the limits during the time stated in track
bulletin Form B, they must move at restricted speed until leading
wheels have cleared the limits unless instructed otherwise by
employee in charge as stated in item A (Verbal Permission).
A.
Verbal Permission -
When granting verbal permission,
begin the communication using the following words:
116 Version 21.0
“Foreman (name and/or Gang No.) ______ using track bulletin
No.____ (and/or Line No._____) between MP_____and
MP_____”.
1.
To permit a train to pass a red flag (or red light) without
stopping, add the following:
“(Train) may pass a red flag (or red light) located at MP____
without stopping (specifying track when necessary)”.
Unless otherwise restricted, the train may pass the red flag (or red
light) at restricted speed without stopping.
2.
To permit a train to proceed at other than restricted speed, add
one of the following:
“(Train) may proceed through the limits at _______MPH (or at
maximum authorized speed) (specifying track when necessary)”.
Unless otherwise restricted, the train may proceed at speed
specified.
“(Train) may proceed at _____MPH between MP ____ and MP
___ and then proceed at ____MPH (or at maximum authorized
speed) (specifying track when necessary) until entire train has
passed through the limits”.
Unless otherwise restricted, the train may proceed through the
limits at the speeds specified. Not more than two speeds may be
authorized. The second speed authorized must not be less than the
first speed.
3.
To require the train to move at restricted speed, but less than 20
MPH, add the following:
“(Train) must proceed at a restricted speed but not exceeding
_____ MPH (specifying distance and track when necessary)”.
The above will apply when movement is to be made at restricted
speed, but less than 20 MPH. Unless otherwise restricted, the train
must proceed at restricted speed and not exceed the speed
specified.
Version 21.0 117
B. Repeat Instructions -
A crew member must repeat the above
instructions, and the employee giving the instructions must
acknowledge them before they can be followed.
Once instructions are received from the employee in charge, if the
track route changes from previous instructions received, contact
the employee in charge to determine that original instructions
received are valid on the new track route before proceeding on the
new route.
C. Stop Column -
When “STOP” is written in the Stop column,
the train must not enter the limits unless instructed by the employee
in charge. A red flag or red light may be displayed at the beginning
of the limits. A train within the limits at the time the track bulletin
Form B takes effect, must not make further movement until
instructed by the employee in charge.
D. Entering Within Limits -
Before entering the track governed
by the track bulletin Form B from any location other than at the
beginning of the Form B limits, obtain permission from the
employee in charge.
15.3 Protection for On-Track Equipment
- Track bulletin Form
B may be used to protect on-track equipment, such as rail detector
cars, without using yellow-red flags. Identify protected equipment
in the track bulletin.
While trains, engines, and protected equipment are in track bulletin
limits, they will otherwise be governed by Rule 11.2 (Protection
by Track Bulletin Form B). The same track bulletin must not
protect other gangs and equipment.
15.4 Protection When Tracks Removed from Service -
Before
a track is removed from service it must be protected.
A track bulletin may protect tracks removed from service by
designating the track and naming the points at each end of the
track. Trains must not use this track, unless the track bulletin states
the name or title of an employee who may authorize its use, and
this person directs all movement.
When required, the train dispatcher must advise crews of alternate
routes and switch positions.
118 Version 21.0
15.5 Protection When Tracks Blocked with Equipment -
Notify
the train dispatcher when main tracks, sidings, or other tracks that
are normally clear are blocked with equipment and cannot be
cleared. When the main track is blocked, provide protection.
15.6 Change of a Rule, General Order, or Special Instruction -
When authorized by the designated manager, a track bulletin may
be used to issue, change, or cancel rules, general orders, or special
instructions.
General orders or special instructions canceled by track bulletins
must not be reinstated. The track bulletin must remain in effect
until the general order that contains the change is posted.
15.7 Copying Track Bulletins -
The conductor and the engineer
must each have a copy of the track bulletin(s) issued to their train,
and each crew member must read and understand them. The copy
must show the date, location, and name of the employee who
copied it. The following must occur when track bulletins are
transmitted verbally:
1. An employee will enter all of the information on the
track bulletin.
2. The employee will repeat the information to the train
dispatcher.
3. The train dispatcher will check it and, if correct, will say
“OK” and give the time and his initials.
4. The employee will enter the “OK” time and the train
dispatcher’s initials on the track bulletin and repeat them to
the train dispatcher.
Version 21.0 119
Figure 15.1 Track Bulletins Forms A & B
15.8 Duplicating Track Bulletins -
Employees who reproduce
track bulletins with a duplicating machine do not need to repeat
them to the train dispatcher.
Duplicated track bulletins must not be delivered or used until they
are checked and verified as:
A. Legible
B. Duplicated in their entirety
15.9 Mechanical Transmission of Track Bulletins -
Repetition
is not required when track bulletins are transmitted mechanically.
The “OK” time will be given when the track bulletin is issued. The
space for the name of the copying employee may be left blank.
15.10 Retaining Track Bulletins -
Employees must keep and
comply with track bulletins on all trips during the tour of duty
when track bulletins are received.
120 Version 21.0
15.11 Restriction to Crew Members -
The train dispatcher will
not transmit a restricting track warrant or track bulletin to a train
near a point where the restriction applies, until the engineer or
conductor confirms that they can comply with it.
15.12 Relief of Engineer or Conductor During Trip -
When a
conductor, engineer, or both are relieved before a trip is finished;
they must deliver all track warrants, track bulletins, and
instructions to the relieving conductor or engineer.
If they cannot personally deliver the track warrants or track
bulletins to the relieving crew, the conductor will leave them at a
location designated by the train dispatcher.
If track warrants and track bulletins have not been received, the
relieving crew must attempt to contact the train dispatcher before
departing from their originating terminal.
15.12.1 Comparison of Information -
The relieving
conductor and engineer must compare track warrants, track
bulletins, instructions, and pertinent information with each
other and with the train dispatcher before proceeding.
15.13 Voiding Track Bulletins
- To void a numbered line on a
track bulletin, a part of a track bulletin, or an entire track bulletin,
the train dispatcher may do one of the following:
A. Voiding Track Bulletins Verbally -
Void the track bulletin by
verbally using one of the following examples:
1. “Line (number) of track bulletin No. ___ reading (quote the line
to be voided) is void.”
An employee must repeat this information to the train dispatcher.
If the information is correct, the employee must write
“VOID” in the margin to the left of the line made void.
2. “That part of track bulletin No.___reading (quote the part to be
voided) is void.”
An employee must repeat this information to the train dispatcher.
If the information is correct, the employee must draw a line
through the portion made void.
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3. “Track bulletin No. _____ is void.”
An employee must repeat this information to the train dispatcher.
If the information is correct, the employee must write
“VOID” across each copy of the track bulletin being voided.
B. Issue Track Bulletin or a Track Warrant to Void a Track
Bulletin -
Issue a track bulletin or use the line designated “OTHER
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS” on a track warrant using one
of the following examples:
1. “Line (number) of track bulletin No. ___ is void.”
The employee will keep a copy of the track warrant or track
bulletin that made it void and will write “VOID” in the margin to
the left of the line made void.
2. “That part of track bulletin No. ____ reading (quote the part to
be voided) is void.”
The employee will keep a copy of the track warrant or track
bulletin that made it void and will draw a line through the portion
made void.
3. “Track bulletin No. ____ is void.”
The employee will keep a copy of the track warrant or track
bulletin that made it void and will write “VOID” across each copy
of the track bulletin being voided.
The track bulletin or the part of the track bulletin indicated will no
longer be in effect.
15.14 Delivering Track Bulletins
- Employees who copy track
bulletins for delivery must deliver copies to all those addressed,
unless the track bulletin is voided or transferred to a relieving
employee. When employees have delivered copies to all
addressed, they must keep a copy on file.
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Section 16.0 - Switches and Switching
16.1 Position of Switches
- The position of switches or derails
being used is the responsibility of the employee handling the
switch or derail. When possible, crewmembers on the engine must
see that switches and derails near the engine are properly lined.
Employees handling switches and derails must see that they are
properly lined for the route to be used. It must be seen that the
points fit properly and that the indication of the target or lamp, if
so equipped, corresponds with the position of the switch. When an
operating lever is equipped with a latch, employees must not step
on the latch to release the operating lever except when throwing
the switch. After locking a switch or derail, the lock must be tested
to know that it is secure.
16.2 Rigid Switches -
All switches not labeled as spring switches
shall be presumed to be rigid switches and must not be run through.
16.2.1 Variable Switches
Are considered to be rigid
switches and must not be run through.
16.3 Spring Switch
- Spring switches are identified by the letters
'SS' placed on the target or by other sign posts at the location. A
train or engine trailing through or stopping on a spring switch must
control slack. The switch must be lined by hand before making a
reverse movement or taking slack. When practicable, trainmen
should ascertain that the spring switch has returned to its original
position. During times when snow is on the ground, heavy rain, or
other conditions that may prevent a spring switch from functioning
properly, a movement must not be made through the spring switch
until it has been lined by hand for the movement.
16.4 Scale Track Switches
When scales are not in use, line
switches for dead rails.
16.5 Switches Run Through
Do not run through switches, other
than spring switches. If a rigid type switch is run through, it is
unsafe and must be protected by spiking the switch, unless the
Roadmaster or other competent management employee takes
charge.
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An engine or train that partially runs through a switch must
continue the movement over the switch. The engine or car must
not change direction on a damaged switch until it has been spiked
or repaired.
In the event that a switch has been run through against the
points, the switch cannot be used in any direction until repairs have
been made or the points are spiked and the gauge of the points is
checked. Immediate reporting is necessary and protection of
traffic is required. If there is a delay in reporting a run through
switch, measures must be taken to protect the switch from future
traffic moves by either a flagger being posted or a red flag being
placed. Every crew member is responsible for reporting a run
through switch.
16.6 Damaged or Defective Switches
Report a switch that is
damaged or defective to the train dispatcher, or supervisor in
charge. Spike the switch unless the track foreman or other
competent management employee takes charge. If the switch can
not be made safe, provide protection at once.
16.7 Spiked Switch -
Do not operate a switch that is tagged. If the
switch is spiked, do not remove the spike unless authorized by
Roadmaster or designee.
16.8 Avoid Sanding Over Movable Parts
When possible, avoid
using sand over moveable parts of any switch.
16.9 Derail Location and Position
Employees in train, engine,
and yard service, must know the location of all fixed derails. The
train or engine moving on or entering tracks where fixed derails
are located, must stop at least 50 feet from derail in derailing
position. Movement must not continue until the derail is placed in
the non-derailing position. Do not make a movement over a derail
in derailing position.
Sidings having hand thrown derails will have derail locked in non-
derailing position, except when engines or cars are left unattended
on the siding.
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16.10 Mainline and Yard Track Switches
The normal position
of a mainline or yard switch is for the main track movement, and
it must be lined and locked in that position. The normal position of
a spring switch is for movement with the current traffic.
When authorized by track warrant, train order, or track bulletin,
mainline switches may be left lined in either position.
16.11 Switching Safely and Efficiently
While switching,
employees must work safely and efficiently and avoid damage to
contents of cars, equipment, structures, or other property. Do not
leave cars or engines where they will foul equipment on adjacent
track or cause injury to employees riding on the side of a car or
engine. Train crewmembers must always be on the lookout for
people who may foul their movement.
16.12 Crewmember in View of Engineer
When using hand
signals during switching operations, at least one train crewmember
must be in full view of the engineer or next relay ground crew
member during the entire move. All crewmembers must have a
clear understanding of the movements to be made. When using
radio signals, the ground crew member does not need to be in view.
16.13 Coupling Speed
- Speeds for coupling shall never exceed
two miles per hour.
16.14 Operating Switches
- Switches are to be operated only by
qualified train service and maintenance personnel that are on
record with the Nevada Northern Railway.
16.15 Throwing Switches
- Switches will not be thrown or reset
while rail equipment is moving through the switch or is standing
over the points of the switch at any time.
16.16 Switching Clearance Distance
- Locomotives and cars
must be no closer than 25 feet to the switch points of any switch
that is to be thrown when it is safe to do so.
16.17 Switchman Clearance Distance
- When a person throws a
switch and the move is to commence, the same switchman shall
step back at least 5 feet from the stand while the move is made and
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shall not touch the stand again until the traveling train or track
vehicle clears the switch.
16.18 Securing Switches During Movement
- If the switch stand
is equipped with a lock or hook, it must always be slung in the lock
loop during a switch move.
16.19 Securing Switches -
Switch stands must be locked, if
equipped, at all times, except when the switch is continuously
manned during switching operations.
16.20 Checking Switches
- During switch operations, all
switchmen must visually check the points for proper contact and
alignment. Points that do not make contact or leave gaps are a
hazard. Such conditions must be reported immediately to the track
department or train dispatcher for repairs before further switch
moves can be made.
16.21 Point Protection
Point protection shall be provided by a
crewmember or other qualified train service employee on the
leading end of the movement of rolling equipment or light
locomotive consist by:
1.
Visually determining that the track is clear.
2.
Giving signals or instructions necessary to control the
movement.
16.22 Movement Toward Switch Points
- Under no circumstance
shall a switch be thrown while any movement is made toward the
points of the switch.
16.23 Boarding Equipment
- When boarding at the steps, ladders,
stirrups, or foot boards, all personnel must face the center of the
unit. The same holds true for getting off railroad rolling stock,
locomotives, or track equipment.
16.24 Stepping Between Equipment
- Stepping between
locomotives or cars is only to be done when the train is in a full
stop position. Before entering into such a situation, crew members
must notify the engineer and receive permission before a crew
member steps between a locomotive, cars or other rolling stock.
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16.25 Qualified to Be Between Equipment
- Stepping between
locomotives or cars is to be done only by qualified train service or
maintenance personnel who have been assigned to perform the
required task. Prior to coupling to a scheduled passenger train,
permission to do so must be granted by that train’s conductor.
16.26 Precautions for Coupling and Moving
- Before coupling
to or moving cars or engines, it must be known that they are
properly secured, and can be coupled to and moved safely. The cut
of cars must be stretched so all of the slack between the cars is out
and to ensure that all couplings are made.
16.27 Movement through Gate or Doorways
- Before engines or
cars are moved through gates, doorways or similar openings, a stop
must be made 50 feet in advance, and it must be ascertained that
gates, doorways or openings are completely open and secured.
When overhead or side clearances are close, it must be known that
movement can be made safely.
16.27.1 Shop Doors -
Shop doors are to be opened or
closed all the way. However, it is permissible to open a
door only 4 feet and leave it there. Whenever opening a
door, the employee must stay at the control panel until the
door has stopped completely. No movement shall be made
towards a door until the door is fully opened and stopped.
16.27.2 Locomotives Spotted Outside of Buildings
In
service locomotives must not be spotted closer than 50 feet
to any building, gateway or door. Out of service
locomotives, including locomotives undergoing
maintenance, may be spotted closer than 50 feet providing
that proper protection has been placed on the equipment
including blue flag protection.
16.28 Testing Handbrakes
Train Service or maintenance
personnel must know how to operate hand brakes on the equipment
they are using. When hand brakes must control or prevent car
movement, test the brakes to ensure that they are operating before
using them. Prior to drawing down and uncoupling, handbrakes
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must be tested by the engineer fully releasing all the brakes on the
train to ensure enough handbrakes have been applied.
16.29 Securing Cars and Engines
– Do not depend on air brakes
to hold a train, engine, or cars in place when left unattended. Apply
a sufficient number of handbrakes to prevent movement. If
handbrakes are not adequate, block the wheels.
When the engine is coupled to a train or cars, do not release the
hand brakes until the airbrake system is fully charged. When cars
are moved from any track, apply enough handbrakes to prevent
any remaining cars from moving. Prior to drawing down, the
locomotive should do a full release to test the handbrakes.
16.30 Switching Passenger Equipment
Before switching
passenger equipment:
1. Stop the movement 50 feet from the passenger
equipment before the coupling is made.
2. Have an employee on the ground to direct the coupling.
3. Ensure couplers are fully stretched to check that
knuckles are locked before making air, steam and electrical
connections.
4. Couple air hoses.
5. Fully charge the brake system and do a set and release.
6. Use the automatic brake valve when braking.
The exception is while using locomotive 310 as a switch engine
because it does not have train air. Locomotive 310 can be used to
switch passenger cars under the following conditions:
1. It has been verified there are no passengers on board the
train, and
2. The switching takes place only within the East Ely yard
limits.
16.31 Do Not Drop or Kick Cars
The dropping or kicking of
cars is prohibited.
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Section 17.0 Hi-Rail Vehicles, Motorcars,
Railbikes, Handcars & Velocipedes
17.1 Policy
Hi-Rail Vehicles, Motorcars, Railbikes, Handcars
and Velocipedes are allowed to operate on the Nevada Northern
Railway track under the direction of qualified personnel.
17.2 Rules
Operators of Hi-Rail Vehicles, Motorcars, Railbikes,
Handcars and Velocipedes must obey the rules as stated in the
Nevada Northern Railway Rulebook. Operators are required to
take and pass the Safety Exam and Practical Tests before they are
allowed to operate any equipment.
17.2.1 Minimum Requirements -
To operate Hi-Rail
Vehicles or Motorcars you must be:
1. Be properly qualified and tested.
2. Have a state issued driver’s license.
3. Be 18 at least years old.
17.2.2 Minimum Requirements
To operate Railbikes,
Handcars and Velocipedes you must be:
1. Be properly qualified and tested.
2. Minimum age to operate a Railbike, Handcar or
Velocipede is 13 years old, with adult supervision.
17.2.3 License
Operators of Hi-Rail Vehicles,
Motorcars, Railbikes, Handcars and Velocipedes must
have a license to operate their respective piece of
equipment. Additional, operators of motorized equipment
must have a valid vehicle license issued by their home
state,
17.2.4 Operational Status -
Hi-Rail Vehicles, Motorcars,
Railbikes, Handcars and Velocipedes operating outside the
East Ely Yard are considered a train operating under
timetable, train order and track warrant authority.
17.2.5 Operations in the East Ely Yard
Before moving
any equipment in the East Ely Yard, operators will have an
operational briefing with the on duty Dispatcher as to the
location and movements of all scheduled trains.
17.2.6 Communications -
All
Hi-Rail Vehicles,
Motorcars, Railbikes, Handcars and Velocipedes will have
a railroad radio on while they operate. Additionally,
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operators will give their cell phone number to the
Dispatcher as a backup.
17.2.7 Loss of Certification -
The Chief Operating Officer
or the Trainmaster may revoke an operator’s certification
and license at any time, for any reason.
17.3 Main Track Authorization
- Main tracks must not be
occupied unless authorized by proper Form and Authority.
17.3.1 Initiating Movement
Before initiating movement
on a main track, a train must have the following authority:
a. Timetable or Train Order and
b. Track warrant (See figure 13.19) and any track
bulletins that are required.
17.3.2 Train Location -
Trains or maintenance of way
employees who receive authority to occupy the main track
after the arrival of a train or to follow a train must ascertain
the train’s location by one of the following methods:
a. Visual identification of the train.
b. Direct communication with a crew member of
the train.
c. Receiving information about the train from the
train dispatcher or control operator.
17.4 Yard Limit
The yard limits of the East Ely terminal are
designated with the existing chevron shaped yard limit signs.
Within the East Ely yard limit, trains, engines, track equipment, hi-
rail vehicles, motorcars, railbikes, handcars and velocipedes may
use the main track. A passenger or freight train operating in the
East Ely Yard is superior to all other equipment and must not be
delayed.
17.5 Direction of Movement
The Nevada Northern Railway is a
north south railroad. Trains heading away from Sunshine
(Keystone) are northbound. Trains heading toward Sunshine
(Keystone) are southbound.
17.6 Speed Limits
The following are the maximum speed limits
allowed on this railroad. Operators are responsible for the safe
operation of their equipment. The speed limits must be followed.
When conditions require, it is the responsibility of the operator to
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operate at a slower speed that is safe for the existing conditions.
Operators will determine their speed with a GPS device.
17.6.1 Coupling and Building Speed
- Speed is no greater
than 2 mph for coupling or moving inside a building or
within 250 feet of any gate or doorway.
17.6.2 Main Yard, East Ely Wye, and Designated
Service Area
speed is restricted to no greater than 5 mph,
except for the close clearance point on the northeast corner
of the RIP and on the team track from the railroad north
end of the parking lot to the railroad south end of the freight
barn where the speed is restricted to no greater than 2 mph.
17.6.3 North Yard Speed
The yard tracks railroad north
(east) of the gravel service road crossings is 10 mph.
17.6.4 Close Clearance Speed
Tunnel #1 and Highline
Cut: Approach and enter at no greater than 8 mph until the
leading edge of the movement is clear of the close
clearance.
17.6.5 Keystone Branch Speed
Keystone Branch is
defined as starting at switch 11, speed is no greater than 15
mph for passenger trains. For freight or mixed trains, the
speed limit is no greater than 10 mph. Keystone wye speed
is 10 mph including the track between the wye switches.
17.6.6 Mainline Speed
The mainline is defined as
starting at the Avenue F crossing, speed is no greater than
15 mph for passenger trains. For freight or mixed trains,
the speed limit is no greater than 10 mph. From the Avenue
C crossing to the Avenue F crossing (Bath Lumber), the
speed limit is restricted to no greater than 10 mph.
17.6.7
Adverse Branch Speed
Adverse Branch is
defined as starting at Hiline Junction, speed is no greater
than 15 mph for passenger trains. For freight or mixed
trains, the speed limit is no greater than 10 mph.
17.6.8
Engine House Track at RIP Building
Track
speed will not exceed 2 mph when passing the northeast
corner of the RIP building.
17.7 Observation of Defects
- If any defect or condition which
might cause an accident is discovered in track, bridges, culverts or
tunnels a responsible manager must be notified immediately.
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17.8 Handled Safely
- Operators must be aware of the speed of
their equipment and grade conditions. Equipment must be handled
safely and under control at all times.
17.9 Stopping Clear for Meeting or Passing
On track
equipment that may be met or passed must stop at least 400 feet
from the clearance point of the facing point the other train will pass
over, if train length permits.
17.10 Movement at Restricted Speed
When conditions require
movement at restricted speed, movement must be made at a speed
that allows stopping within half the range of vision short of train,
engine, railroad car, men or equipment fouling the track, stop
signal, derail or switch lined improperly. Speed will not exceed 15
mph when complying with these requirements until the leading
wheels reach a point where movement at restricted speed is no
longer required.
17.11 Blocking Public Crossings
On track equipment must not
stop on or block any public road crossing.
17.12 Velocipede and Railbikes Rules
Operators must obey
these rules.
A
. Velocipedes and railbikes can only be operated under
the supervision of a qualified operator.
B.
No scarves, loose clothing, or camera straps around the
neck are allowed while riding on a velocipede or
railbike.
C.
A velocipede or railbike shall be kept chained and
locked when not in use.
D.
The operator must ensure that non-riders are at least 10
feet back from the track.
E.
Maximum speed of the velocipede or railbike shall be
carefully regulated; maximum speed should not exceed
allowable limits as stated in Rule 17.6.
F.
Under no circumstances shall the velocipede or railbike
movement interfere with a regularly scheduled train.
G.
Before operating a velocipede or railbike, the operator
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will get an audible warning device from the dispatcher.
Excessive or unnecessary use of the audible warning
device is not allowed.
H.
A first aid kit is to be carried on velocipedes and
railbike.
17.13 Handcar Rules
Operators must ensure that all passengers
on the handcar obey these rules.
A. Everyone must always face the direction of travel.
B. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
C. Handcars can only be operated under the supervision of
a qualified operator.
D. No scarves, loose clothing, or camera straps around the
neck are allowed while riding on the handcar.
E. The handcar shall be kept chained and locked when not
in use.
F. When the car is in use the primary operator shall be on
the brake side of the car.
G. Brakes shall be applied whenever a passenger is
boarding or alighting.
H. Standing passengers must keep their hands on the pump
handles at all times.
I. Sitting passengers must sit on the side of the handcar and
hold onto the A-frame or the seat back.
J. The operator must ensure that non-riders are at least 10
feet back from the track.
K. Maximum speed of the handcar shall be carefully
regulated; maximum speed should not exceed allowable
limits as stated in Rule 17.6.
L. No more than seven persons shall be allowed on the
handcar at any one time.
M. Under no circumstances shall the handcar movement
interfere with a regularly scheduled train.
O. The handcar is equipped with a bell as an audible
warning device. Excessive or unnecessary use of the bell is
not allowed.
P. A first aid kit is to be carried on the handcar.
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17.14 Motorcar and Hi-Rail Rules
Operators must ensure that
all passengers on motorcars and hi-railers obey these rules.
A. Everyone must always face the direction of travel.
B. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
C. Motorcars and hi-railers can only be operated under the
supervision of a qualified operator.
D. The motorcars and hi-railers shall be kept chained or
locked when not in use.
E. Brakes shall be applied whenever a passenger is
boarding or alighting.
F. The operator must ensure that non-riders are at least 10
feet back from the track.
G. Maximum speed of the motorcars and hi-railers shall be
carefully regulated; maximum speed should not exceed
allowable limits as stated in Rule 17.6.
H. Under no circumstances shall the motorcars and hi-
railers movement interfere with a regularly scheduled train.
I. The motorcars and hi-railers are equipped with a horn as
an audible warning device. Excessive or unnecessary use
of the horn is not allowed.
J. A first aid kit is to be carried on motorcars and hi-railers.
17.15 Prohibited Behavior
It is the operator’s responsibility to
ensure that all passengers engage in safe behavior. In the event that
a passenger engages in unsafe behavior or becomes unruly the
operator will stop the movement and contact a responsible
manager for assistance.
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Section 18 - Motor Vehicles
18.1 Vehicle Use
- Motor vehicles owned by the NNRy will only
be used for railroad work unless otherwise authorized by a
responsible manager.
18.2 Authorized Operators -
Motor vehicles may be operated
by an employee holding a state issued driver’s license, be 18
years of age or older and qualified to operate said vehicle and is
designated as an operator by a responsible manager.
18.3 Seatbelts -
All persons riding in a motor vehicle must have
a seat and appropriate seat belt fastened. Individuals will not ride
in the cargo areas of any vehicle.
18.4 Non-Employees in Vehicles -
Non-employees are not
allowed to ride in motor vehicles unless authorized by the COO,
Superintendent, Trainmaster or Master Mechanic or the person is
part of a program or ticketed experience.
18.5 Fueling -
Employees will use the fuel card and fuel railroad
motor vehicles under the fuel card guidance.
18.6 POV Use -
Personally Owned Vehicles (POVs) can be used
for railroad business when authorized by the COO,
Superintendent, Trainmaster or Master Mechanic. A submitted
trip report will have mileage paid under current IRS rates.
18.7 Maintenance and Inspection -
Motor vehicles will be
inspected daily before use by the operator and any mechanical
issues found will be reported to the vehicle department.
18.8 Vehicle Keys -
Keys are not to be left in any unattended
vehicle. When in use the keys must be in the custody of the
designated operator. When not in use, the keys must be stored in
their designated location. A designated location will be selected
by the responsible manager and must be in a location where there
is restricted access.
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Section 19 Bunkhouse
19.1
Bunkhouse Usage
Volunteers can stay in the Bunkhouse
for free, if they work for at least 6 hours per day that they are
staying at the Bunkhouse. The exception is on days that the
museum is closed during the volunteer’s stay. Example: When the
museum is closed on holidays, the volunteer is not expected to
work.
19.2 Volunteer Code of Conduct
The public does have access
to the Bunkhouse either as Bunkhouse guests or as Caboose 22
guests. Volunteers staying in the Bunkhouse serve as ambassadors
of the railroad. Because public has access to the Bunkhouse,
volunteers staying in the Bunkhouse or Caboose 22 must adhere to
the following Code of Conduct:
1. Volunteers must be presentable when exiting their room
or when using the common areas.
2. Volunteers will not use vulgar, rude or offensive
language while in the Bunkhouse.
3. Volunteers will not leave their toiletries in the bathrooms
when they are not present. Additionally, they must leave
the sinks and showers clean.
4. Volunteers must keep the common areas clean and neat.
5. Volunteers must clean up after themselves immediately
after using the kitchen, dining area, BBQ area or sitting
area.
6. Because of the dirty nature of steam railroading,
volunteers should remove their steam railroading clothes at
the engine house and not at the bunkhouse.
7. Volunteers are allowed to have guests at the bunkhouse,
if your guest is going to stay overnight, please inform the
gift shop.
8. Volunteers will maintain a quiet time from 9:00 p.m.
until 8:00 a.m. No loud noises, music, videos or
conversations will be allowed during this period.
9. Volunteers will remove all of their personal items when
they check out of the bunkhouse including any food items.
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19.3 Bunkhouse Cleanliness
- Volunteers that stay in the
bunkhouse are required to keep it clean. Volunteers need to leave
the bunkhouse clean with all garbage put in the dumpster. The
cleaning does count as volunteer hours. Before departing remove
all of your food and drink from your room and common
refrigerators. Strip your bed and leave all the linens on the bed.
19.4 Personal Items Storage
Personal items that are too big to
fit in a bedroom can be stored in other areas on the railroad. Items
of high value can be secured in the safe or in one of the railroad’s
offices. It is your responsibility to coordinate with staff for storage
of your oversized or high value items.
19.5
Lock Sleeping Room Doors -
Lock your sleeping room door
when you are not in the room. The railroad is not responsible for
personal items left in the rooms or vehicles.
19.6 Parking -
Park your vehicle on the east side of the building,
perpendicular to the building.
19.7 Alcohol, Drugs and Other Controlled Substances -
Bringing alcohol, legal or illegal drugs, and other substances
which may impair the safety or welfare of employees or the public
onto any premises controlled by the Nevada Northern Railway is
strictly prohibited except when an employee or guest is staying at
the Bunkhouse or at Caboose 22 (See Rule 19.7.3)
19.7.1
Only beer and wine are allowed at the bunkhouse or
on Caboose 22. No other alcoholic beverages are allowed.
19.7.2
No one under the age of 21 is allowed to consume
alcohol while staying in or visiting the bunkhouse. Persons
allowing a minor to consume alcohol will be subject to
suspension, termination, and/or prosecution to the fullest
extent of the law.
19.7.3
While staying in the bunkhouse all alcohol must be
kept in your assigned room with the door locked. Alcohol
can only be consumed at or within 25 feet of the bunkhouse
or Caboose 22. Consumption of alcohol anywhere else on
railroad property is strictly prohibited.
19.7.4
Do not leave any alcohol or empty alcohol containers
behind when checking out.
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19.8 Marijuana -
The federal government classifies marijuana as
a Schedule I drug.
19.8.1
The Nevada Northern Railway operates under the
Code of Federal Regulations. Having marijuana or using
marijuana while on railroad property is illegal and strictly
forbidden under federal law.
19.8.2
In accordance with Nevada state law, the Nevada
Northern Railway prohibits the use, cultivation,
processing, manufacture, sale, delivery, or transfer of
marijuana on any property owned or controlled by the
railroad. Having marijuana or using marijuana while on
railroad property is illegal and strictly forbidden under
Nevada state law.
19.9 Smoking
Smoking and vaping is only allowed in the
designated smoking area outside of the Bunkhouse or Caboose 22.
19.10 Unacceptable Behavior -
Any unacceptable behavior of a
volunteer or guest may result in that volunteer or guest being asked
to leave the Bunkhouse or Caboose 22 immediately. Furthermore,
the volunteer or guest may also lose their privilege to stay in either
facility in the future.
19.11 Emergencies
The railroad’s policy is that if you think
emergency service may be needed,
Call 911 Immediately
We can
always turn emergency services back.
19.11.1
In case of fire, notify all people in the Bunkhouse
and leave immediately, Call 911.
DO NOT
attempt to put
the fire out, get everyone out of the building.
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Section 20.0 - Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace
20.1 Policy
The Nevada Northern Railway is committed to
maintaining a safe and healthy workplace for all employees.
Substance abuse can be reasonably expected to produce impaired
job performance, lost productivity, absenteeism, accidents, wasted
materials, lowered morale, rising health care costs, and diminished
interpersonal relationship skills.
20.2 Prohibited Behavior -
The Nevada Northern Railway strictly
prohibits the following behavior; the use, sale, attempted sale,
manufacture, attempted manufacture, purchase, possession or
cultivation, distribution and/or dispensing of legal or illegal drugs
by an employee at any time and in any amount.
This prohibition includes the use or possession of prescription
medicines for which the individual does not have a valid
prescription and the inappropriate use of prescribed medicines for
which the employee has a valid prescription.
20.2.1
An employee is allowed to have an open container
of an alcoholic beverage only when they are off duty and
staying at the bunkhouse. See Rule 19.7.3
20.2.2
If an employee has a blood-alcohol level of .02% or
more at any time, they will be ordered off the property.
20.2.3
If an employee has a blood-alcohol level greater
than .04%, they are terminated from the railroad.
20.2.4
A positive test result for alcohol or drugs will be
grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including
possible termination.
20.3 Alcohol, Drugs and Other Controlled Substances -
Bringing alcohol, legal or illegal drugs, and other substances
which may impair the safety or welfare of employees or the public
onto any premises controlled by the Nevada Northern Railway is
strictly prohibited except when an employee is staying at the
Bunkhouse (See Rule 19.7.3)
20.3.1
The federal government classifies marijuana as a
Schedule I drug.
The Nevada Northern Railway operates
under the Code of Federal Regulations. Having marijuana
or using marijuana while on railroad property is illegal and
strictly forbidden under federal law.
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20.3.2
In accordance with Nevada state law, the Nevada
Northern Railway prohibits the use, cultivation,
processing, manufacture, sale, delivery, or transfer of
marijuana on any property owned or controlled by the
railroad. Having marijuana or using marijuana while on
railroad property is illegal and strictly forbidden under
Nevada state law.
20.4 Reporting Requirements -
Any employee or supervisor who
receives information or is a witness to any use of drugs or alcohol
by an employee which violates Nevada Northern Railway
policies
or the law, is required to report this information to his/her
Department Head, Superintendent, or the President immediately.
The information reported must include:
A.
The persons(s) involved, including all witnesses;
B.
Any information gathered, such as actual observation of
drug or alcohol use, the presence of paraphernalia,
observation of any unusual physical signs or behaviors;
C.
A written record of specific conversations held with the
accused and any witnesses;
D.
All pertinent facts, including date(s), time(s), and
locations(s).
20.4.1
An employee who witnesses or obtains information
regarding illegal drug/alcohol use by his/her immediate
supervisor is required to report the incident to that
individual’s supervisor.
20.5 Employee Responsibilities
- Each employee is responsible
for meeting standards for work performance and safe on-the-job
conduct. Employees shall not report to work under the influence
of alcohol, illegal drugs, or misused prescription or over-the-
counter drugs.
20.5.1
Employees must not consume alcohol eight (8) hours
before they are required for duty. In the event they are called
for duty during their time off, they must inform the caller that
they are not available for duty until it has been eight (8) hours
since they have consumed alcohol and when that time will be.
20.5.2
It is the employee’s responsibility and obligation to
determine, by consulting a physician if necessary, whether or
not a legal drug she/he is taking may or will affect his/her
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ability to safely and efficiently perform his/her job duties. An
employee whose impairment may affect job performance must
contact his/her supervisor and not report for duty or take other
steps consistent with the advice of a physician. If an employee
reports to work under the influence of prescription medication
and, as a result, endangers himself/herself or others, the
employee will be disciplined, up to and including termination.
20.5.3
Each employee must report the facts and circumstances
of any criminal drug or alcohol conviction that occurred while
on or off duty or which may impact the employee’s ability to
perform the duties of his/her job. The employee must report to
his/her supervisor a conviction for driving under the influence
(DUI), and/or revocation or suspension of their driver’s license
pending adjudication. Notification must occur before
resuming work duties.
20.6 Random Drug and Alcohol Testing
All employees
working for the railroad are subject to random drug and alcohol
testing as provided in this policy.
20.6.1
An employee selected for random testing shall proceed
immediately to the test site. An employee who engages in
conduct which does not lead to testing as soon as possible after
notification may be considered to have refused to be tested
20.6.2
Employees selected for a random test but absent due to
vacation, sick leave, other leave, or on urgent employer
business approved by their department head will not be
notified to take the random test until the first day they return
to work after random selection. Random selection may result
in some employees being tested more than once each year;
some may not be tested at all
20.7 Supervisor Responsibilities -
Supervisors are responsible for
determining if reasonable suspicion exists to warrant drug and/or
alcohol testing and detailing, in writing, the specific facts,
symptoms, or observations that are the basis for the reasonable
suspicion.
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20.8 Reasonable Suspicion Testing
- When any supervisor has a
reasonable suspicion that an employee may be under the influence
of alcohol or drugs, the employee in question will be directed by
the department head or designee to submit to drug and/or alcohol
testing.
The supervisor shall be responsible to determine if
reasonable suspicion exists to warrant drug and/or alcohol testing
and shall be required to document, in writing, the specific facts,
symptoms, or observations which form the basis for such
reasonable suspicion. When possible, the documentation will be
forwarded to the department head or designee to authorize the
drug and/or alcohol test of an employee.
The department head or designee shall direct an employee to
undergo drug and/or alcohol testing if there is reasonable suspicion
that the employee is in violation of this policy. The employee will
be suspended pending results of the test
Circumstances which constitute a basis for determining reasonable
suspicion may include, but are not limited to:
A. Information provided either by reliable and credible
sources or independently corroborated,
B. Direct observation of drug or alcohol use,
C. Drug or alcohol paraphernalia possibly used in connection
with illicit drugs or alcohol found on the employee’s person
or at or near the employee’s work area may trigger a request
for testing,
D. Evidence that the employee has tampered with a previous
drug and/or alcohol test,
E. The supervisor observes physical symptoms that could
include, but are not limited to, glassy or bloodshot eyes, odor,
slurred speech, poor motor coordination, or slow or poor
reflex responses different from what is usually displayed by
the employee or generally associated with common ailments
such as colds, sinus problems, hay fever, and diabetes.
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20.9 Post-Accident Testing -
Each employee involved in an FRA
recordable accident will be tested for drugs and/or alcohol as soon
as possible after the accident, but after any necessary emergency
medical attention has been provided. In the event an employee is
so seriously injured that she/he cannot provide a blood, breath, or
urine specimen at the time of the accident, the employee must
provide necessary authorization, as soon as the employee’s
physical condition allows, to enable the railroad to obtain hospital
records or other documents that indicate whether there were drugs
or alcohol in the employee’s system when the accident occurred
In the event federal, state, or local officials conducted drug and/or
alcohol testing following an accident, the employee will be
required to sign a release allowing the railroad
to obtain the test
results from such officials
An employee who is subject to a post-accident test must remain
readily available for testing. An employee who leaves the scene
before the test is administered or who does not make him/herself
readily available may be deemed to have refused to be tested, and
such refusal shall be treated as a positive test. Further, the
employee, subject to a post-accident test, must refrain from
consuming alcohol for eight (8) hours following the accident or
until the employee submits to an alcohol test, whichever comes
first
For safety reasons, an employee required to submit to post-
accident testing may be placed on leave of absence with or without
pay pending receipt of the post-accident testing results and any
related investigation
20.10 Pre-Employment Testing -
All applicants being considered
for employment by the railroad will be required to submit to a
urinalysis test for the detection of illegal drugs as part of a post-
offer, pre-employment drug test. All such offers of employment
are conditioned upon the ability to pass this drug test.
An applicant refusing to complete any part of the drug testing
will not be considered a valid candidate for the railroad
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When an employee applies for a position with the railroad, the
employee will be subject to drug testing in accordance with the
procedures contained in this policy before the employee will be
considered a valid candidate for the job opening. An employee
who tests positive for illegal drugs will no longer be considered an
applicant for that position. Such employee will also be subject to
discipline under this policy, up to and including termination. Once
an employee is scheduled for pre-employment testing, if that
employee refuses to submit to the test, she/he will be disqualified
for consideration for the position and subject to discipline, up to
and including termination
20.11 Consequence of Refusal to Submit to
Testing/Adulterated Specimen -
An employee who refuses to
submit to testing for drugs and/or alcohol will be subject to
disciplinary action, up to and including termination. An employee
who consents to a drug or alcohol test but fails to appear timely at
the collection site, or who fails to give his/her urine sample after
reasonable opportunity to do so, will be treated as a refusal to
submit to a drug or alcohol test.
Submission of an altered or adulterated specimen or substitution
of a specimen by a specimen donor will be considered a refusal to
comply with this policy and subject the employee to disciplinary
action, up to and including termination.
20.12 Testing Guidelines -
The railroad will test for the following
types of substances:
A.
Marijuana
B.
Cocaine, including crack
C.
Opiates, including heroin and codeine
D.
Amphetamines, including methamphetamines
E.
Phencyclidine (PCP)
F.
Alcohol
Other drugs may be added to this list. Where applicable, the
railroad
will follow federal testing procedures for drugs and
alcohol set forth by the Federal Department of Transportation
(DOT) 49 CFR Part 40 and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations (FMCSR). These regulations may be amended from
time to time.
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20.13 Option for Drug Retest -
No later than seventy-two (72)
hours after receipt of a positive drug test, an employee who tests
positive may request a confirmatory retest of the same sample at
his/her expense at a certified laboratory of his/her choice.
Upon request, the medical review officer will authorize the
laboratory holding the employee’s sample to release to a second
laboratory, approved by the Department of Health and Human
Services, a sufficient quantity of the sample to conduct a second
testing analysis.
The employee will be required to authorize the laboratory to
provide the railroad
with a copy of its test results. The accuracy of
the test results will be verified by the laboratory conducting the
analysis.
20.14 Searches -
If the railroad
suspects that an employee or on-
site contractor is in possession of illegal drugs, alcohol, or
contraband in violation of this policy, the railroad
may request the
individual to submit to a search of his/her person, personal effects,
vehicles, lockers, desks, work area, baggage, and employee
quarters. By entering into or being present at a job site while on
railroad
time or representing the railroad in any way, an individual
is deemed to have consented to such searches. If an individual is
asked to submit to a search and refuses, that individual will be
considered insubordinate and will be escorted off the job site and
disciplined, as appropriate.
Searches will be conducted by management personnel and may or
may not be conducted in the presence of the person whose property
or work area is searched. Any suspected contraband will be
confiscated and may be turned over to law enforcement as
appropriate. Any person whose property is confiscated will be
given a receipt for that property by the railroad’s
representative
conducting the search.
20.15 Discipline Related to Abuse -
Employees in violation of the
provisions of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up
to and including termination.
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20.16 Confidentiality -
All medical and rehabilitation records are
confidential medical records and may not be disclosed without the
prior written consent of the patient, authorizing court order, or
otherwise as permitted by state and federal law. Positive test
results may only be disclosed to the employee; the appropriate
medical and substance abuse treatment providers; the railroad’s
attorney; an railroad’s representative necessary to respond to an
alleged violation of this policy; individuals within the railroad who
have a need-to-know of drug and/or alcohol testing results; and a
court of law or administrative tribunal in any adverse personnel
action.
20.17 Definitions
The following are the definitions for this
section.
Alcohol:
The intoxicating agent in beverage alcohol, ethyl alcohol, or
other low molecular weight alcohol including methyl and isopropyl
alcohol.
Alcohol Use:
The drinking or swallowing of any beverage, liquid
mixture, or preparation (including any medication) containing
alcohol.
Applicant:
A person, including a current employee, applying for
any position with the employer (may also be referred to as the
candidate).
Contraband:
Any item such as illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia,
or other related items whose possession is prohibited by this
policy.
Conviction:
A finding of guilt, including a plea of no contest or
imposition of sentence or both, by any judicial body charged with
the responsibility to determine violations of the federal or state
criminal drug or alcohol statutes.
Drug Test:
A urinalysis (urine) test that includes specimen
collection and testing by a Department of Health and Human
Services (DHHS) certified laboratory. Both a screening test and a
confirmation test must be used to establish a positive test result.
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Railroad Premises:
All railroad property and facilities, the
surrounding grounds and parking lots, leased space, employer-
motor driven equipment/vehicles, offices, desks, cabinets, closets,
etc.
Released
: To release personnel from duty.
Relieved
: To give personnel a break during his/her service hours.
Illegal Drugs:
Any controlled substance or drug, the sale,
possession, cultivation, transfer, use, purchases, or distribution of
which is illegal. Illegal drugs include prescription drugs not
legally obtained and/or prescription drugs not being used in the
manner, combination, or quantity prescribed, or by the individual
for whom prescribed.
Legal Drugs:
Prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs that
have been legally obtained and are being used in the manner,
combination, and quantity for which they were prescribed or
manufactured.
Positive Drug or Alcohol Test:
Any detectable level of drugs or
its metabolite (in excess of trace amounts attributable to secondary
exposure) in an employee’s urine or blood. With respect to
alcohol, a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02 or higher constitutes
a positive test.
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Substance Abuse Professional (SAP):
A licensed physician, or
a licensed or certified psychologist, social worker, employee
assistance professional, or addiction counselor (certified by the
National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors
Certification Commission) with the knowledge of and clinical
experience in the diagnosis and treatment of drug and alcohol-
related disorders.
Supervisor:
An employee or an elected official who has been
authorized to select, train, schedule, and evaluate the work of other
employees, and to make decisions or effectively recommend
actions related to the hiring, evaluation, and discipline of assigned
employees. This person may also serve as the department head.
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Section 21.0 - Logbook
Use this logbook to record your hours in train service. Under our
advancement rules, you must have verifiable hours in a position to
advance to the next position. This is where you record those hours
and have them verified by either your conductor or engineer.
It is also necessary for you to record your duty hours on the Hours
of Service Form and the Volunteer Record.
Name:
Date
Position
Hours
Training Official
TOTAL HOURS THIS
PAGE
Recorded by:
Recorded Hours
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Logbook
Name:
Hours Carried Forward>>>>
Date
Position
Hours
Training Official
TOTAL HOURS THIS
PAGE
Recorded by:
Recorded Hours
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Logbook
Name:
Hours Carried Forward>>>>
Date
Position
Hours
Training Official
TOTAL HOURS THIS
PAGE
Recorded by:
Recorded Hours
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Logbook
Name:
Hours Carried Forward>>>>
Date
Position
Hours
Training Official
TOTAL HOURS THIS
PAGE
Recorded by:
Recorded Hours
152 Version 21.0
Logbook
Name:
Hours Carried Forward>>>>
Date
Position
Hours
Training Official
TOTAL HOURS THIS
PAGE
Recorded by:
Recorded Hours
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Logbook
Name:
Hours Carried Forward>>>>
Date
Position
Hours
Training Official
TOTAL HOURS THIS
PAGE
Recorded by:
Recorded Hours
154 Version 21.0
Logbook
Name:
Hours Carried Forward>>>>
Date
Position
Hours
Training Official
TOTAL HOURS THIS
PAGE
Recorded by:
Recorded Hours
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Logbook
Name:
Hours Carried Forward>>>>
Date
Position
Hours
Training Official
TOTAL HOURS THIS
PAGE
Recorded by:
Recorded Hours