Length of platform

[taepn]

Hi, everyone
I am confused that the length of the platform is necessary to design to cover the whole length of the train (locomotive+carriage) or just cover only the carriage? for example, if the station was built to accommodate 12 car train formation, the operated train is 2 electric locomotive with 8 carriages. I not sure that what is the maximum for additional carriages for these operated train whether 2 carriage or 4 carriage?

 

[jopsuk]

In most situations the length must include the locomotive or power cars and where the platform is shorter the front driving cab usually has to be at the platform. If there are points near the end of the platform, or level crossings, these can affect whether or not over-length trains will be permitted.

As a general rule of thumb:
The entire train must be at the platform. Any exceptions will be assessed individually with regard to the specific circumstances of the location and the stock to be used with the working instructions to be risk assessed and documented.

 

[rebmcr]

The entire train must be at the platform. Any exceptions will be assessed individually with regard to the specific circumstances of the location and the stock to be used with the working instructions to be risk assessed and documented.

And such exceptions are much more likely to include overhangs at the rear — they are almost never permitted at the front as that's usually where the signal is.

 

[jopsuk]

And such exceptions are much more likely to include overhangs at the rear — they are almost never permitted at the front as that's usually where the signal is.

Indeed- though that "almost" is important. There are places where the front does overhang, and usually the starter signal in that case will be some distance from the platform

 

[AMD]

Indeed- though that "almost" is important. There are places where the front does overhang, and usually the starter signal in that case will be some distance from the platform

We have two examples in the Southport area - New Lane & Bescar Lane, where the platform is too short for 4 coach services but there is a level crossing to the rear of the platform. (Both stations are staggered over level crossings). We have local instructions for operation where the driver will stop at the stop board off the front of the platform, and only a local door at the rear of the train will be used. There are no signals involved at either location, however Network Rail deemed the risk of an incident with a train sitting on the crossing as too high.

 

[route:oxford]

And such exceptions are much more likely to include overhangs at the rear — they are almost never permitted at the front as that's usually where the signal is.

I took the Highland Chieftain from Dunblane a few weeks back, both the power car and first carriage were off the platform and I'm sure both were beyond the signal too.

For every rule, there is an exception to the rule.