Route knowledge

Route knowledge is one of the core skills together with train handling (also known as brake handling) and a full understanding of railway rules, which the operating crew must possess in order to be able to operate a train safely.

Content
The information that must be learnt and understood includes the following:

Route characteristics

 * Route features: stations, depots, yards, sidings, junctions, points, crossings, signal boxes, bridges, tunnels, names of running lines, direction of travel of running lines, gradients in relation to the types of train to be driven and termination/limiting points of movements.
 * Signal types: the signalling system(s) in use, including the position, sighting and function of signals and associated route indicators.
 * Train protection systems: commencement and termination points of the infrastructure elements of systems.
 * Train radio systems: commencement and termination points of the infrastructure elements of train radio systems. Where relevant to the operation, this should include the location of channel change locations.
 * Lineside signage: location and meaning of all lineside signs applicable to the safe operation of trains, for example fire zones, power shut-off boards, etc.
 * Permitted speed: permitted train and line speed restrictions for all normal and degraded conditions.
 * Level crossings: the location of level crossings, including open crossings and those equipped with automatic half-barriers and miniature red/green lights. Relevant speed restrictions for level crossings, including any special working arrangements for degraded situations.
 * Braking points and stopping distances: braking points and stopping distances in relation to characteristics of the route and the types of train to be driven.
 * Stations: train stopping points, platform lengths, methods of train despatch and operating restrictions.
 * Power supplies: as applicable, knowledge of neutral sections/section gaps, wired/unwired sections of route, track paralleling huts, isolation procedures.
 * Communication: systems in operation and relevant contact numbers for signallers/dispatchers, Zone Controls, and Emergency Control Centres etc.
 * Operating restrictions: for example, use of signal post telephones, restrictions on route availability.
 * Local working instructions for locations where non-standard procedures are in place.
 * Authorised walking routes: knowledge applicable to all locations where crew must walk close to train movements.

Where there is a risk that a signal may be "passed at danger"

 * Signals which have been passed at danger on several occasions, with a particular focus on those where the potential consequences are significant.
 * Signal gantries where there is history of a signal passed at danger or there is a potential to misread signals (reading across).
 * Signals that can be viewed in advance of the next signal (reading through), this is a particular risk with modern ultra-bright LED signals.
 * Signals that are known to sometimes be affected by bright sunlight (both main and shunting signals).
 * Signals which are positioned on the opposite side of the running line in the direction of travel (both main and shunting signals).
 * Locations where there are inconsistent braking distances between signals.
 * Locations where the signalling changes between 4 aspect, 3 aspect and 2 aspect color light.
 * Locations or routes where there is a mixture of color light and mechanical signalling.
 * Commencement and termination points of bi-directional working.
 * Locations where the signal is not in view where there is a potential for starting against the signal at danger (SAS SPAD or SASPAD in the UK).
 * Locations where the normal stopping point is adjacent to the signal and there is a potential for starting against the signal at danger.
 * Locations where starting on a caution signal has led to a driver/engineer inadvertently passing the next signal at danger (SOYSPAD in the UK).
 * Potential distractions such as passing through an electrical neutral section on the approach to a signal.
 * Locations or routes not fitted with Train protection systems, including termination, commencement points and gaps.

Other route risks

 * Exceptional low adhesion areas, low adhesion areas and other locations which are affected by seasonal factors (e.g., leaves) or climatic factors (e.g., ice).
 * Potential differences between driving over the route in daylight and in darkness.
 * Platform, tunnel, or street lighting which may affect the identification of braking points.
 * Potential lineside distractions such as depots, yards and non-railway activities (e.g., outdoor swimming pools).
 * Bi-directional working, reversible working or multi-track lines that do not run parallel to each other.
 * Locations where there is a significant reduction in line speed.
 * Communication black spots.
 * Complex signalling or track layout. For example, the approaches to major junctions and stations.

Methods and assessment
Route learning can consist of:
 * Studying route maps and diagrams, such as the Network Rail Sectional Appendix
 * Travelling in the cab of a train with a driver
 * Driving a train over the route with an instructor
 * Watching route videos