Working single lines by pilot

When any of the following applies.

1. The token has been lost.

2. Trains have to work to and from a point of obstruction.

3. The signal controlling the entrance to a single or bi-directional line cannot be cleared or a movement authority cannot be received by a train for any of the following reasons:

• The signal has failed or has been disconnected.

• A track circuit or other signalling equipment has failed.

• Level-crossing equipment has failed.

• The token instrument has failed and a token is not available.

When the signaller has given permission for the train to enter the single-line section, the pilot must:

• tell the driver why working by pilot has been introduced

• give the driver any necessary instructions

• if required, give the driver a completed Driver’s Ticket for Working Single and Bi-directional lines by Pilot (RT3156 - see below)

• if necessary, instruct the driver to pass at danger the signal controlling the entrance to the single-line section.

A RT3156 driver’s ticket is not required if the train is to enter a one-train working line (e.g. if working to and from the point of obstruction), or is to enter the single-line section to:

• assist a failed train

• evacuate passengers from a failed train

• remove a portion of a divided train

• remove a train or vehicles that have proceeded without authority.

Red armband with PILOT written in white on the left arm.

Before entering the single-line section, you must make sure:

• you can properly identify the pilot who will wear the PILOT armband

• you clearly understand all the instructions the pilot has given to you

• you have the personal authority of the pilot to enter the single-line section

• the pilot has given you a Driver’s Ticket for Working Single and Bi-directional Lines by Pilot (RT3156) except where not required

• inform the guard that working of a single line by pilot is in place

• temporarily isolate the TPWS if required (see below)

The TPWS temporary isolation switch must be operated when you are authorised to enter a single-line section when working by pilot in operation, and you have to pass more than one signal at danger.

Before leaving that section of line, you must re-instate the TPWS.

You must operate the TPWS train-stop override button when you are authorised to pass a signal at danger in all other circumstances.

Module S5 (3.4) 

The pilot must always ride with the driver in the leading cab, unless they are to travel on a following train.

If working to and from the point of obstruction the pilot must always travel with the driver over the single-line section.

You must carry out the instructions shown on the RT3156, including which signals can be passed at danger and which can be ignored or must be obeyed.

Follow any instructions regarding level crossings and any additional instructions. 

You may travel at the permissible speed except when the RT3156 states otherwise. 

Maximum speed is 15mph over points.

Cancel your driver’s ticket by writing ‘CANCELLED’ across it and then hand it to the pilot.

Re-instate the TPWS if this has been temporarily isolated.

If the pilot is not with you, you do not have to stop unless the pilot has instructed you to do so. 

If you have been instructed to stop, you must tell the signaller that your train has arrived.

If you do not have to stop, you must cancel your driver’s ticket at the first opportunity, and hand it in as shown in your company instructions.