Signalling and Lock Out Devices

[_Henry_]

Signalling and Lock Out Devices

I just want to ask how a signaller or track worker knows if an area has a Lock-out device installed? Is it shown somehow in the Sectional Appendix, in a 5-mile diagram or in a signal box on the signal panel (or equivalent)? I found this photo from UniPart rail of a Lock-Out device and it looks like a serious piece of kit that is permanently installed - so surely it is recorded on a diagram / map /plan somewhere for all staff to know if there is one in their area? Otherwise, how would they know it is there if they wanted to use one?

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Supercoss]

They are shown on Table A diagrams within the sectional appendix and also listed in General Instructions section, different types of Lock Out Protection System:
E - capstan key
K-Captive Key
T- key enabled
P-Key enabled prevents signalled move in one direction on BI-Di Line

Each Lock out has a unique number the maps show them as a square shape with “X” inside

 

[swt_passenger]

Here’s an example from the online SA at the country end of Fratton. I understand they use PLOD standing for Protection Lock Out Device, in the remarks column they explain the coverage:


(Drawing shows symbol as previously described, an X in a square box.
The remarks text for down direction device reads:
“1 PLOD at 43m 47ch
Down Main - Fratton to Blackfriars Jn
Up and Down Fratton - Fratton to Blackfriars Jn”)

 

[Supercoss]

Patrolman’s Lock Out Device was how is was originally listed for P L O D

 

[swt_passenger]

Patrolman’s Lock Out Device was how is was originally listed for P L O D

Yes, I thought that was the original term, and did initially write that, but then thought I’d double check to be sure, and the Wessex SA now uses Protection. I wonder if it was changed everywhere?

 

[_Henry_]

Many thanks for your replies. This is very interesting. Would the PLOD also be shown on a signal panel in a signal box? (My logic is that the PLOD must be connected or hard wired into the signalling system for it to work and therefore the signaller should be able to see it on their signal panel?)

 

[Supercoss]

Shown on westcad type signalling display as hollow circle with type of Lockout and Lock Out Number
circle turns solid when activated

 

[endofthetunnel]

Most lockouts require interaction from the signaller to activate/deactivate in conjunction with the people using it on the ground, almost like the same way as a ground frame is ‘released’

 

[edwin_m]

Most lockouts require interaction from the signaller to activate/deactivate in conjunction with the people using it on the ground, almost like the same way as a ground frame is ‘released’

I was thinking that too and trying to remember if they were as above on the early IECC schemes I was involved with - I think so but can't be sure. The patroller would need to confirm there were no trains in section in the relevant direction before taking the lockout, and the signaller might not want to grant it immediately if there was a situation that might require such a move.