I85PREP
⌘ K
GER Category 3 study materials
GER Category 3 study resources

GER Category 3 practice questions

One question at a time. Build your GER Category 3 understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1General railway operating rules and safety principles

Under the general principles of railway operating rules, what is the primary purpose of the block signalling system on a running line?

  1. To regulate the speed of passenger trains according to the timetable
  2. To provide electrical power to the signalling relays along the line
  3. To maintain a safe separation between trains by controlling entry into successive sections Correct answer.
  4. To record the exact arrival time of each train at every station

Explanation

Block signalling exists to keep trains physically separated by permitting only one train into a defined block section at a time. Entry is governed by the signal protecting that section, which clears only when the section is proven clear. Timetable regulation and power distribution are separate functions.

Question 2General railway operating rules and safety principles

A driver observes a signal displaying a red aspect. What is the required action under general operating rules?

  1. Reduce speed and pass the signal with caution while sounding the horn
  2. Continue at line speed if the line ahead appears visibly clear
  3. Proceed only after exchanging a hand signal with the guard
  4. Stop before the signal and remain there unless authorised to proceed Correct answer.

Explanation

A red aspect is an absolute stop indication, and the train must be brought to a stand before the signal. Movement beyond it requires specific authority such as a written order or verbal instruction under the applicable procedure. Visual observation of a clear line does not override the signal indication.

Question 3General railway operating rules and safety principles

What does the term 'fouling point' mean in the context of railway track safety?

  1. The location where two rails of different weight are joined together
  2. The mark on a platform indicating where the locomotive should stop
  3. The place where a signal post is earthed to the running rail
  4. The point beyond which a vehicle standing on one line would obstruct traffic on an adjacent line Correct answer.

Explanation

The fouling point marks the limit to which vehicles may stand on a siding or loop without infringing the clearance of an adjacent running line. Shunting movements must keep clear of this point to avoid side collisions. It is a clearance concept, not a rail-joint or earthing feature.

Question 4General railway operating rules and safety principles

In the context of train protection, what is the function of a trap point on a siding connected to a running line?

  1. To allow locomotives to reverse direction without a turntable
  2. To derail or divert a runaway vehicle so that it cannot enter the running line Correct answer.
  3. To isolate the siding electrically during maintenance
  4. To measure the axle load of wagons before they enter the main line

Explanation

Trap points are set to divert unauthorised or runaway movements away from the running line, protecting main-line traffic. They are normally kept in the protective position and moved only when a movement is authorised. Their purpose is collision protection, not weighing or turning.

Question 5General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the purpose of a possession on a running line?

  1. To reserve seats for a large group of passengers travelling together
  2. To hold a freight train in a loop while a faster train passes
  3. To formally reserve a section of line for engineering work so that trains are excluded Correct answer.
  4. To allocate a platform to a particular train service for the day

Explanation

A possession is the formal, recorded arrangement that takes a section of line out of service for engineering work and prevents trains from entering it. It is granted by the responsible control authority and protected by signals, points and detonators as required. Passenger bookings and platform allocation are unrelated to the term.

Question 6General railway operating rules and safety principles

When a train is brought to a stand at a signal at danger and the driver is later authorised to pass it, what must the driver normally do before moving off?

  1. Ask the guard to walk ahead of the train for the whole section
  2. Sound a long continuous blast and proceed at line speed
  3. Wait for the signal to clear to green before moving at all
  4. Confirm the authority, check the road ahead and proceed at a speed permitting a stop short of any obstruction Correct answer.

Explanation

Authority to pass a signal at danger normally requires the driver to understand the instruction, examine the road ahead and proceed cautiously, able to stop short of any obstruction. The signal may remain at danger while the movement is made. Walking ahead or assuming line speed is not part of the standard procedure.

Question 7General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the meaning of 'absolute block' working on a double line?

  1. Trains may follow each other at a fixed distance without section clearance
  2. Only one train may be in a block section at a time, and the section must be proved clear before another is admitted Correct answer.
  3. Block sections are used only when the signalling system has failed
  4. Two trains may occupy a section provided they travel in the same direction

Explanation

Absolute block working permits just one train in a block section at a time. The signal box in rear must obtain 'line clear' from the box in advance before admitting a train. This principle underpins the separation of trains on plain line.

Question 8General railway operating rules and safety principles

Which of the following best describes the general rule on walking or working on or near running lines?

  1. Staff may cross running lines freely whenever no train is visible
  2. Only supervisors are ever permitted near running lines
  3. Work may proceed only under a safe system of work with the required protection in place Correct answer.
  4. Walking along the cess is always permitted without any lookout

Explanation

The general safety principle is that nobody goes on or near a running line without a safe system of work, which may include a lookout, a possession, or a line blockage. Absence of a visible train is not proof that the line is safe. The rule applies to all grades of staff.

Question 9General railway operating rules and safety principles

A train has stopped because of a suspected hot axle box. Under general operating rules, what is the correct immediate action?

  1. Report the condition to the controlling signal box and examine the vehicle before any further movement Correct answer.
  2. Reverse the train to the previous signal box for inspection
  3. Detach the vehicle and leave it on the running line
  4. Continue to the next station at reduced speed without reporting

Explanation

A suspected hot axle box is a serious defect that can lead to derailment, so the condition must be reported and the vehicle examined before the train moves again. The controlling signal box needs the information to protect the line and regulate other traffic. Unreported movement risks catastrophic failure.

Question 10General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the role of a detonator when placed on the rail during degraded working?

  1. To give an audible warning to the driver of an approaching train that protection is required ahead Correct answer.
  2. To measure the speed of the train as it passes over the rail
  3. To mark the exact boundary of a station platform
  4. To earth the running rail during electrical work

Explanation

A detonator explodes when a train passes over it, producing a loud report that alerts the driver to stop or proceed with caution. Detonators are placed in the protection of obstructions, failed trains and possessions. They are a warning device, not a measuring or earthing tool.

Question 11General railway operating rules and safety principles

In single-line working with a token system, why must the driver hold the correct token for the section?

  1. The token records the train's fuel consumption for the journey
  2. The token identifies the driver to the signaller for payroll purposes
  3. The token authorises the train to exceed the line speed
  4. Possession of the token is the physical proof that the section is not occupied by another train Correct answer.

Explanation

With token working, only one token for a section exists, so holding it proves no opposing or following train can be admitted. The token is surrendered at the far end before another is issued. This physical safeguard replaces the protection of absolute block signals on single lines.

Question 12General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the correct interpretation of a 'limit of shunt' indicator?

  1. The indicator shows the maximum axle load permitted on the siding
  2. The indicator marks the end of the platform for passenger trains
  3. Movements must not pass the indicator except when specifically authorised Correct answer.
  4. Shunting may continue past the indicator at any speed

Explanation

A limit of shunt indicator defines how far a shunting movement may proceed toward the running line. Passing it without authority could foul the main line and cause a collision. It is a movement boundary, not a speed or load sign.

Question 13General railway operating rules and safety principles

During a signal failure, a signaller authorises a driver to pass a signal at danger by verbal instruction. Which condition must be satisfied before the instruction is given?

  1. The signaller must have established that the section ahead is clear and that the movement can be made safely Correct answer.
  2. The train must be empty of passengers
  3. The line speed must be raised to recover lost time
  4. The driver must first sign a waiver accepting all responsibility

Explanation

Verbal authority is only valid when the signaller has confirmed the section is clear and the proposed movement is safe. The instruction must be clearly understood and repeated back where required. Authority cannot be delegated to the driver as a waiver of responsibility.

Question 14General railway operating rules and safety principles

Why must points be 'set and detected' before a signal is allowed to clear over them?

  1. Detection allows the points to be moved while a train is passing
  2. Detection proves the points have been painted and lubricated
  3. Detection records the number of trains that passed over the points
  4. The signal must prove the points are in the correct position and locked before authorising movement Correct answer.

Explanation

Point detection confirms that the switches are correctly set and locked in the required position. Only then may the protecting signal clear, ensuring the train is routed as intended. Detection is a safety interlock, not a maintenance record.

Question 15General railway operating rules and safety principles

A driver experiences a total loss of the train radio while running. What is the generally expected course of action?

  1. Increase speed to reach the destination before any problem arises
  2. Abandon the train and walk to the nearest signal box
  3. Continue to the next suitable location and report the failure at the first opportunity Correct answer.
  4. Stop immediately and wait for a search party to arrive

Explanation

Loss of radio does not by itself require the train to be stopped on the running line, which would create a new hazard. The driver should continue as authorised and report the failure at the first suitable point so communications can be restored. Speed must remain within the permitted limit.

Question 16General railway operating rules and safety principles

What does the 'route setting' function of an interlocking achieve?

  1. It determines the priority of freight over passenger services
  2. It assigns passengers to carriages according to their tickets
  3. It selects the cheapest path for a train to save fuel
  4. It ensures that signals and points are set in a sequence that prevents conflicting movements Correct answer.

Explanation

Route setting establishes a path by setting and locking the necessary points and then clearing the signal, with locking that prevents conflicting routes being set simultaneously. This is the core safety function of an interlocking. Commercial or timetable decisions are separate from the interlocking logic.

Question 17General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the purpose of a 'call-on' or subsidiary signal?

  1. To allow a train to enter an occupied section at low speed for a specific authorised purpose Correct answer.
  2. To call the signaller to the telephone at the signal post
  3. To summon passengers to the platform for boarding
  4. To allow a train to pass at line speed on the main aspect

Explanation

A subsidiary signal permits a movement into a section that is already occupied, for example to couple to a failed train or to enter a platform partly occupied. The movement is made at caution and able to stop short of any obstruction. It does not authorise normal line-speed running.

Question 18General railway operating rules and safety principles

A guard is required to give the 'ready to start' indication. What is the underlying safety reason for this division of responsibility?

  1. It confirms that station duties are complete and the line is safe before the driver moves the train Correct answer.
  2. It replaces the need for any signal indication to start
  3. It allows the driver to leave the cab during station stops
  4. It transfers legal liability for the journey to the guard

Explanation

The guard confirms that passengers are clear, doors are secured and station work is finished before giving the ready-to-start indication. This provides an independent check before the train moves. It does not transfer liability or remove the need for signal authority.

Question 19General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the general rule governing the movement of trains during a failure of the track circuit indicating occupancy of a section?

  1. Trains may be admitted only under special degraded-working arrangements that substitute another means of proving the section clear Correct answer.
  2. Trains may proceed at line speed if the driver reports seeing no other train
  3. Trains may run normally because track circuits are only an aid to the signaller
  4. Trains must be permanently withdrawn from the section until the circuit is replaced

Explanation

A failed track circuit removes the system's proof that a section is clear, so special arrangements such as absolute block or ticket working must be introduced. These substitute a human or physical check for the failed technology. Running normally or relying on the driver's eyesight does not provide the required proof.

Question 20General railway operating rules and safety principles

Which principle underlies the requirement to secure a train before leaving it unattended on a gradient?

  1. The train must be prevented from moving by the correct application of brakes and, where required, additional securing devices Correct answer.
  2. The train may be left if a member of the public is asked to watch it
  3. The train may be left if the gradient is less than one in a hundred
  4. The train may be left with only the parking brake of the locomotive applied

Explanation

Unattended trains on gradients must be secured against movement by the prescribed brake application and any additional devices such as scotches or handbrakes. The number of brakes required depends on the gradient and load. Leaving a train inadequately secured risks a runaway.

Question 21General railway operating rules and safety principles

Two trains are to be crossed at a passing loop. What is the critical safety check before the second train is admitted?

  1. The first train must be confirmed clear of the loop and the points set for the intended route Correct answer.
  2. The loop must be lit by floodlights
  3. The second train must sound a warning before entering the loop
  4. Both trains must be of the same class

Explanation

Before a second train is admitted, the signaller must confirm the first is clear of the single-line section or loop and that the points are correctly set. This prevents a collision within the loop. Train class and lighting are irrelevant to the safety of the crossing.

Question 22General railway operating rules and safety principles

What does 'wrong-side failure' mean in railway signalling?

  1. A failure that always results in the signal showing red
  2. A failure that occurs on the side of the line away from the signal box
  3. A failure caused by a train passing a signal on the wrong side of the track
  4. A failure that results in a less restrictive indication than intended, so the signalling no longer protects as designed Correct answer.

Explanation

A wrong-side failure is dangerous because the equipment fails in a way that gives a more permissive result than it should, such as a signal clearing when the section is occupied. Signalling is designed so that failures are normally right-side, that is, toward the restrictive indication. Recognising wrong-side failure is central to signalling safety analysis.

Question 23General railway operating rules and safety principles

A signaller observes that a train has not arrived within the expected time after 'line clear' was given. What is the correct protective action under absolute block principles?

  1. Assume the train is running late and admit the next train as normal
  2. Telephone the driver and, if there is no answer, clear the signal for the next train
  3. Wait until the timetable shows the train as overdue before taking any action
  4. Treat the section as occupied, place or maintain signals at danger and initiate the obstruction procedure Correct answer.

Explanation

If a train does not appear within the expected interval, the section must be treated as occupied until the train is accounted for. Signals protecting the section are kept at danger and the obstruction procedure is invoked to protect the line. Admitting another train risks a collision with a failed or stalled train.

Question 24General railway operating rules and safety principles

Why is 'fail-safe' design expressed as the signalling system reverting to the most restrictive aspect on loss of power or circuit integrity?

  1. Because drivers prefer to see red signals at night
  2. Because it reduces the maintenance cost of signal lamps
  3. Because the absence of a positive indication of clearance must be interpreted as a danger condition Correct answer.
  4. Because restrictive aspects consume less electrical power

Explanation

Fail-safe design assumes that if the system cannot positively prove a section is clear, it must default to the restrictive indication. This ensures that a fault results in a safe rather than a permissive state. Power consumption, driver preference and maintenance cost are not the basis of the principle.

Question 25General railway operating rules and safety principles

Under general principles, what distinguishes a 'permissive' movement from an 'absolute' movement in railway working?

  1. A permissive movement may take place within an occupied section under defined conditions, whereas an absolute movement may not Correct answer.
  2. A permissive movement is one made by passenger trains only
  3. An absolute movement is one that requires no signal authority
  4. A permissive movement is one made only during engineering possessions

Explanation

Permissive working allows more than one train or movement in a section under specific conditions, such as shunting or entering an occupied platform. Absolute working requires the section to be clear before a train is admitted. The distinction governs how signals and authorities are applied.

Question 26General railway operating rules and safety principles

Under general railway operating rules, what is the primary purpose of the 'line clear' enquiry before a train is accepted into a block section?

  1. To record the exact time the train departed the previous station
  2. To check whether the driver has signed on for the correct diagram
  3. To confirm the section ahead is clear to the required point and can accommodate the train Correct answer.
  4. To verify that the train's payload is within the permitted axle load

Explanation

Acceptance of a train into a block section depends on the signaller establishing that the line ahead is clear to the required clearing point and that the section can hold the train. This prevents two trains being in the same section at once and protects the rear of the preceding movement.

Question 27General railway operating rules and safety principles

A train is running under caution because the previous train is only a short distance ahead. What does the general rule on safe braking distance require the driver to do?

  1. Reduce speed only after the tail lamp of the preceding train becomes visible
  2. Continue at line speed because the preceding train is also moving forward
  3. Maintain a speed from which the train can be stopped short of any obstruction within the distance the driver can see to be clear Correct answer.
  4. Rely on the signaller to warn by radio if the preceding train stops

Explanation

The core braking principle is that a driver must always be able to stop within the distance visible ahead and known to be clear. When running under caution, this means adjusting speed so that any obstruction, including a stopped train, can be avoided.

Question 28General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the general rule about the position in which a train must be left when it is stabled on a running line during an emergency?

  1. It may be left anywhere provided the marker lights are illuminated
  2. It may be left unsecured provided the engine is still running
  3. It must be secured against movement and protected in accordance with the rules for that line Correct answer.
  4. It must be left with the brakes released so it can be moved quickly

Explanation

Any train left on a running line must be secured against unintended movement and protected so that other movements are warned. Leaving a vehicle able to move on a running line creates an immediate collision risk.

Question 29General railway operating rules and safety principles

What does the term 'block section' mean in the context of general railway operating rules?

  1. The area of a station platform used for loading and unloading
  2. The total length of track maintained by a single permanent way gang
  3. The distance a train needs in order to stop from line speed
  4. The length of line between the last stop signal of one signal box and the first stop signal of the next Correct answer.

Explanation

A block section is the portion of line controlled between two signal boxes, bounded by the relevant stop signals. It is the unit of space separation within which normally only one train is permitted at a time.

Question 30General railway operating rules and safety principles

A signaller needs to allow a second train to enter an occupied block section to assist a failed train ahead. Which principle governs this movement?

  1. It may only be made under the specific authority and precautions laid down for assisting a failed train, with the driver warned that the section is occupied Correct answer.
  2. It may be made only if the assisting train is of the same class as the failed train
  3. It may be made at normal line speed once the signaller has recorded the decision
  4. It may be made whenever the signaller judges that the failed train is unlikely to move

Explanation

Entering an occupied section is exceptional working and is permitted only under the prescribed authority and precautions, with the driver clearly warned that the line ahead is occupied. The warning is what allows the driver to proceed at a speed permitting a stop short of the obstruction.

Question 31General railway operating rules and safety principles

A driver is instructed to set back a train that has overrun a platform. What is the key safety requirement before the movement begins?

  1. The guard must ride on the leading end regardless of the direction of travel
  2. The movement must be completed within sixty seconds of the instruction
  3. The driver must sound the horn continuously throughout the movement
  4. Authority must be obtained and the movement protected so that no conflicting movement can approach Correct answer.

Explanation

Setting back is a movement in the wrong direction for the signalling and requires specific authority plus protection against conflicting movements. The protection ensures no other train can be routed into the path of the setting-back movement.

Question 32General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the general principle governing the movement of a train past a 'shunt limit' or 'limit of shunt' marker?

  1. Movements may pass the marker only when carrying passengers
  2. Movements may pass the marker whenever the signal ahead is showing a proceed aspect
  3. Movements must not proceed beyond the marker unless specifically authorised, because the signalling does not protect the line beyond it Correct answer.
  4. Movements may pass the marker freely provided the speed is below walking pace

Explanation

A limit of shunt marks the boundary beyond which shunt movements are not protected by the signalling. Passing it without specific authority could place the movement in the path of a signalled train.

Question 33General railway operating rules and safety principles

Under general rules, what is the required action when a train is stopped by a signal reverting to danger unexpectedly after having been cleared?

  1. The driver must immediately reverse to the previous signal
  2. The driver must treat the signal as being at danger and not proceed until authorised Correct answer.
  3. The driver may proceed if the signal returns to clear within one minute
  4. The driver may proceed cautiously on the assumption that the aspect change was a fault

Explanation

A signal that has returned to danger must be obeyed as showing danger, regardless of why it changed. The driver stays at the signal until the signaller gives authority to proceed under the applicable rules.

Question 34General railway operating rules and safety principles

Why do operating rules require a train to be brought to a stand before the driver telephones the signaller from a signal post telephone?

  1. So that the guard has time to walk to the signal
  2. So that the driver can give and receive instructions without the distraction and risk of a moving train Correct answer.
  3. So that the train's brakes can cool before the next section
  4. So that the signaller can identify the train from the sound of its engine

Explanation

Using a signal post telephone while moving would divide the driver's attention and could allow the train to move without proper authority. Stopping first ensures the conversation is conducted in a controlled condition.

Question 35General railway operating rules and safety principles

A train is to be propelled into a siding during shunting. Which principle applies to the person controlling the movement?

  1. The movement may proceed at speed to clear the running line quickly
  2. The movement requires no control provided the points are set correctly
  3. The movement may proceed as long as the driver can see the siding entrance
  4. The movement must be under the control of a competent person who can stop it at any time Correct answer.

Explanation

Propelling movements are controlled by a competent person positioned so that the movement can be stopped immediately if necessary. Correct point setting alone does not protect against obstructions or miscommunication.

Question 36General railway operating rules and safety principles

What is the underlying safety reason for requiring a train to be 'fully accommodated' in a block section before line clear is given for a following train?

  1. To confirm that the train has reported its position by radio
  2. To ensure the train has enough fuel to reach the next depot
  3. To ensure the section can contain the train so that it cannot stand foul of the section behind Correct answer.
  4. To allow the signaller to update the timetable records

Explanation

A block section must be able to hold the whole train so that its rear does not remain foul of the section in rear. If the train overhangs, a following train accepted into the rear section could collide with it.

Question 37General railway operating rules and safety principles

Why is a 'permissive' signal distinguished from an 'absolute' signal in general operating rules?

  1. A permissive signal may be passed at danger to proceed into an occupied section at caution, whereas an absolute signal may not Correct answer.
  2. A permissive signal is always of a different colour from an absolute signal
  3. A permissive signal applies only to freight trains and an absolute signal only to passenger trains
  4. A permissive signal is used only in stations and an absolute signal only on plain line

Explanation

The distinction lies in what passing at danger allows: a permissive signal permits entry into an occupied section at caution, while an absolute signal prohibits it. The difference protects against collision where line occupation is expected, such as at a block marker on a permissive line.

Question 38General railway operating rules and safety principles

A signaller is unable to obtain 'line clear' from the box ahead because of a failure of the block instrument. What is the correct general approach?

  1. Wait until the instrument is repaired, regardless of how long that takes
  2. Adopt the prescribed degraded working arrangement, including any required pilotman or written authority, before any train is allowed to proceed Correct answer.
  3. Ask the driver to confirm by radio that the line ahead is clear and then proceed
  4. Send trains forward at reduced speed without any special authority

Explanation

When the normal block system fails, the rules require a prescribed degraded method of working to maintain separation. This typically involves a pilotman or written authority so that only one train is in the section at a time.

Question 39General railway operating rules and safety principles

In analysing a near-miss where a train was accepted into a section before the preceding train had cleared it, which factor is most directly relevant to the operating rules?

  1. Whether the signaller had received positive confirmation that the preceding train was complete with tail lamp before accepting the next Correct answer.
  2. Whether the weather was fine at the time
  3. Whether the drivers had previously worked the route
  4. Whether the two trains were of similar length

Explanation

Acceptance into a block section depends on positive confirmation that the preceding train has cleared the section and is complete. Without that confirmation, the signaller cannot know the section is safe to accept another train.

Question 40General railway operating rules and safety principles

Why does the fail-safe principle require that loss of power or a component failure results in the most restrictive indication rather than the last displayed aspect?

  1. Because it reduces the workload on the signaller during failures
  2. Because restrictive aspects consume less electrical power
  3. Because drivers are trained to expect frequent aspect changes
  4. Because an unknown or unsafe condition must never be presented to the driver as authority to proceed Correct answer.

Explanation

Fail-safe design assumes that a failure leaves the state of the equipment uncertain, so the safest response is to show the most restrictive aspect. This ensures the driver is never given authority to proceed on the basis of an unverified condition.

Question 41Signals and signalling systems

In Japanese railway signalling, what does a home signal (場内信号機, jōnai shingōki) primarily govern?

  1. Movements entering a station platform area or passing through the station Correct answer.
  2. Movements within a depot or workshop track group
  3. Movements over a level crossing outside station limits
  4. Movements departing from a station toward the next block section

Explanation

A home signal is the entrance signal for a station and controls whether a train may enter the station area, including arrival on a platform track or passage through. Departure from the station is governed by a starting signal (出発信号機), and depot movements are handled by shunting signals, so the home signal's scope is entry.

Question 42Signals and signalling systems

What is the fundamental purpose of a block system in railway operation?

  1. To regulate the maximum speed of trains according to track curvature
  2. To coordinate timetables between adjacent operating companies
  3. To monitor axle-bearing temperature along the running line
  4. To prevent more than one train occupying the same block section at the same time Correct answer.

Explanation

A block system divides the line into sections and permits only one train to occupy a section at a time, providing the basic separation between trains. Speed restrictions, timetable coordination, and bearing monitoring are separate functions not performed by the block system itself.

Question 43Signals and signalling systems

A Japanese colour-light signal displays a yellow aspect. What movement authority does this convey?

  1. Proceed, prepared to stop at the next signal Correct answer.
  2. Stop immediately before the signal
  3. Proceed at line speed without restriction
  4. Proceed at restricted speed through the station

Explanation

In Japanese three-aspect signalling, yellow (注意, Y) means proceed but be prepared to stop at the next signal, because the following block section may be occupied. Green authorizes proceed at speed, and red requires a stop before the signal.

Question 44Signals and signalling systems

In ATS (自動列車停止装置) terminology, what is the role of the ground coil (地上子, chijōshi)?

  1. It provides traction power to the train's signalling circuits
  2. It records the train's speed for later timetable analysis
  3. It transmits signal and speed-limit information to the train as it passes Correct answer.
  4. It physically brakes the train when the driver fails to respond

Explanation

Ground coils are trackside elements that communicate information such as signal aspects or permitted speeds to onboard ATS equipment as the train passes over them. Braking is performed by onboard equipment after receiving this information, not by the ground coil itself.

Question 45Signals and signalling systems

What is the primary function of a track circuit (軌道回路, kidō kairo) in railway signalling?

  1. To detect the presence of a train in a defined section of track Correct answer.
  2. To provide communication between the driver and the dispatcher
  3. To measure the axle load of passing rolling stock
  4. To supply traction current to the running rails

Explanation

A track circuit uses the rails as part of an electrical circuit; the axles of a train short the circuit and this change is detected to show occupancy. It does not supply traction current, weigh trains, or carry voice communication.

Question 46Signals and signalling systems

Which component of a level crossing (踏切, fumikiri) installation warns road users of an approaching train?

  1. The point machine controlling the switch
  2. The axle counter head beside the crossing
  3. The trackside block signal for the adjacent section
  4. The crossing warning device with flashing lights and a bell Correct answer.

Explanation

Level crossing warning devices use flashing red lights and an audible bell to alert road users before the barriers descend. Block signals face train drivers, point machines move switches, and axle counters detect trains, none of which warn road users directly.

Question 47Signals and signalling systems

In Japanese signalling, a starting signal (出発信号機, shuppatsu shingōki) controls which movement?

  1. A train crossing from one platform track to another during shunting
  2. A train entering the station from the block section behind
  3. A train reversing within the station yard
  4. A train departing from a station track toward the next block section Correct answer.

Explanation

The starting signal is located at the exit end of a station track and authorizes departure into the next block section. Entry into the station is controlled by the home signal, and shunting or reversing movements use shunting signals.

Question 48Signals and signalling systems

What does an absolute block section require before a second train may enter it?

  1. That the dispatcher has verbally authorized both trains
  2. That the previous train has travelled at least half the section length
  3. That the driver of the second train has visual confirmation of the first
  4. That the previous train has cleared the section and the block is confirmed clear Correct answer.

Explanation

Absolute block working permits only one train in a section at a time; the section must be proven clear before another train is admitted. Partial travel, visual confirmation, or verbal authorization do not substitute for a confirmed clear block.

Question 49Signals and signalling systems

A train passes a signal at danger and the onboard ATS applies the service brake automatically. Which description best matches this ATS behaviour?

  1. The driver manually selected emergency braking after the signal changed
  2. The dispatcher remotely applied the brakes from the control centre
  3. The ground coil failed and therefore the train lost traction power
  4. The onboard equipment detected an incompatible signal condition and intervened to stop the train Correct answer.

Explanation

ATS compares the information received from the ground with the train's condition; when the train passes a restrictive signal without the required braking, the onboard equipment applies the brake. Traction loss, manual driver action, and remote dispatcher braking are different mechanisms.

Question 50Signals and signalling systems

Why must the rails in a track circuit be insulated at the boundaries of each block section?

  1. To allow the track circuit to double as a communication line
  2. To confine the detection circuit to its own section and prevent it affecting adjacent sections Correct answer.
  3. To reduce rail wear at joints between sections
  4. To prevent traction current from returning through the earth

Explanation

Insulated joints electrically separate adjacent track circuits so that occupancy in one section does not leak into or falsely indicate another. Traction return, rail wear, and communication are unrelated to the purpose of section insulation.