NYC Transit Train Operator flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Absolute block

A block that only one train may occupy at a time. A train must not enter a block occupied by another train without proper authority, and the block is released only when the train has cleared it.

Restricted speed

A speed at which the operator can stop short of any obstruction, signal, or switch. It is not a fixed number for all conditions and requires constant vigilance ahead of the train.

Yard limits

A designated area where movements are made at restricted speed and must yield to mainline trains. Yard movements do not receive mainline signal protection and require direct coordination.

Confirming a radio instruction

The operator must repeat back an instruction and receive confirmation before acting on it. An unconfirmed instruction is not authority to move the train.

Route physical characteristics

The grades, curves, stations, interlockings, and signal locations along a route. Operators must know these before operating over the territory.

Reporting a train stop

When a train stops for any reason, the operator notifies the control center with location, track, direction, and reason, and does not move until authorized.

Approach signal aspect

A yellow wayside signal means proceed prepared to stop at the next signal. It authorizes movement but requires the operator to begin reducing speed immediately.

Interlocking limits

The track area containing switches and signals where routes are set and locked. A route cannot be changed while a train occupies the interlocking limits.

Diverging route signal

A signal aspect such as red over green authorizes movement through a diverging route at the posted speed, not at mainline speed.

Stop signal authority

A stop signal may only be passed with explicit authority from the control center. The operator's belief that the route is clear is not authority to pass it.

Track circuit

An electrical circuit through the running rails that detects a train. An occupied circuit shunts the current and causes signals behind the train to display restricting aspects.

Third rail voltage

The contact rail is energized at roughly 600 to 650 volts DC, and the running rails form the return path. Both must be treated as energized until confirmed otherwise.

Blue signal protection

A blue signal or flag means workers are on or near the track. Trains must stop and must not proceed until the employee who placed the protection removes it.

Switch position confirmation

Before moving through a switch, the operator visually confirms it is in the proper position and locked. A switch lined against the movement will derail the train.

Pre-trip inspection

A check of brakes, propulsion, doors, lights, horn, bell, wipers, radio, and cab signals before the train enters service. Defects are reported before departure.

Door interlock

A safety feature that prevents the train from moving with doors open. If the indication is false, the operator must not move until the condition is resolved or the door is cut out.

Cutting out a car

Isolating a failed car so the train can continue in service. The operator reports the defect and the car number to the control center.

Cab signal failure

If the cab signal fails, the operator operates at restricted speed, reports the failure, and follows wayside signals until the cab signal is restored.

Brake test requirement

A brake test is required at the start of the tour, after any change in train consist, and after a brake defect is corrected. It verifies brake pipe and cylinder pressure.

Third rail shoe damage

A damaged or missing contact shoe can cause loss of propulsion or arcing. The operator inspects and reports the condition before continuing the trip.

Emergency evacuation

Stopping the train, requesting power removal, and evacuating passengers with control center authority unless immediate danger requires evacuation without it.

Passenger emergency intercom

A call from a passenger that the operator must acknowledge, using it to identify the location and nature of the problem and respond per procedure.

Person on the tracks

The operator stops the train immediately, applies emergency brakes, notifies the control center, and does not move until the track is confirmed clear.

Medical emergency response

Request medical assistance through the control center, keep the train at the station if possible, and report the location and nature of the emergency immediately.

Suspicious package

An unattended item is not touched. The operator secures the area, notifies the control center, and follows police instructions without moving the train into the area.

Passenger announcement

A clear, calm statement of the nature of the delay and expected duration. The operator avoids speculation and never gives unverified information to passengers.

When in doubt, stop

The safe course is to stop the train and obtain clarification from the control center rather than proceed on an uncertain signal or instruction.

Safety priority order

Protect life and prevent injury first, then protect property, then restore service. Safety is never sacrificed to maintain the schedule.

Dark or improper signal

A signal that is dark, obscured, or displaying an improper aspect is treated as its most restrictive indication, which is stop, until confirmed otherwise.

Fatigue reporting

Operating while impaired or excessively fatigued is prohibited. The employee reports unfit-for-duty conditions to supervision rather than accepting the assignment.

Operative rule words

In rulebooks, 'must' and 'shall' impose obligation, 'may' grants permission, and 'must not' prohibits. Identifying these words determines what the rule requires.

Stopping distance formula

Total stopping distance equals reaction distance plus braking distance. Reaction distance is speed in feet per second times reaction time, and braking distance grows with the square of speed.