This page provides general advice on SPAD mitigation techniques, and is the first in a series of railwayrules.uk "Good Practice" pages.
These approaches are all tried and tested methods of protecting yourself against passing a signal at danger.
1. Risk Triggered Commentary
Calling out restrictive signal aspects will help you to remember that there is a “red ahead”.
2. Target fixing
Positively identify and then focus your attention on the correct signal. Check and re-check on the approach. Use personal techniques (e.g. “third line, second signal”), route knowledge, or signage to identify signals.
3. Physical triggers and positive actions
Examples:
Shut off at a double yellow and brake at a single yellow (unless route knowledge suggests otherwise)
Always use reduced power when leaving on a single yellow.
Check signal before returning Ready to Start
Correct use of DRA
4. SWR's 15/200/20 policy
No more than 15mph at 200m from the signal.
Stop 20m from the signal (except where otherwise required to stop closer).
During leaf fall season in low-adhesion areas and on red / black days no more than 10mph at 200m from the signal.
5. Route knowledge
Know where the red is! If you pass a restrictive signal, think about and visualise where your next signal is, and be aware of any hazards – curvature, sighting, gradients, low adhesion, cross-reading.
6. Use the DRA
Use the DRA correctly. Set and reset the DRA consistently, and in accordance with the TW1 (10).