Q. What are the precautions taken by LP while crossing a blank signal?
Answer. In the past , lot of accidents have occured due to mistaken signal jump by loco pilots. General & subsidiary rules,1976 section 3.74 indicates rules for Loco Pilot(LP) in this regard. Following symptoms indicate a faulty signal :
1. No signal present at designated place. This may be due to breakage from pole
2....
more... No light emanating from signal. This may be due to damage in signal lamp.
3. White light coming out from signal instead of designated color light.
4 Multiple colors light emanating from signal indicating two contrasting signal indicators.
Upon facing any one of above scenario, LP should deem the signal to be faulty and should compulsorily stop train before it. After that follow the procedure given below
1. If signal is earmarked with marker 'P", then LP may cautiously move the train to next signal.
2. If signal is earmarked with marker 'R" it indicates a repeater signal then LP after stopping at that signal and after crossing it may cautiously move the train to next signal.
3. If signal is a permanent stop signal , then LP should communicate with station officer of next station and ask for his/her permission.
After crossing a blank signal next station officer should be informed. While crossing the signal Speed should be low, such that up on observing any obstacle on the tracks train maybe immediately halted.
Source : Electric Loco motives and their operation , Guide book for rail crew by O.P. Kesari