Brake Continuity Tests

[NeilF]

I am interested to find out the requirements for a brake continuity test when a loco runs round a freight train during a reversing operation.

In these days of driver only operation, and when train preparers/shunters are not typically provided at reversing sidings, what is the requirement?

Is it simply the case that the risk is considered low and so a test is not required? Or is there a technical solution that enables the driver to do this unassisted? If so, how does this work?

 

[66701GBRF]

It reality it depends. If the wagons and run round locations have been approved by the company safety and standards team then a further brake continuity test is not required after a run round providing the train also received an enhanced brake test at it’s origin. An enhanced brake test is the additional checking of the brakes on the first wagon behind the loco during the normal continuity test before departure.

If it hasn’t had an enhanced test or the wagons and location don’t conform then a shunter must be provided for a brake continuity test after the run round.