Train drivers training

[elenag]

Hi mates,

Could someone explain me how is the training normally for train drivers once they are hired in a railway operator?

What is the hardest thing to learn and mantain the knowledge?

I would also like to know what is from your point of view the things that every train driver would like to refresh in order to mantain the competence. Or things to practice to become a better practiced train driver throw the years.

I am trying to know more about this sector and I would be very pleased if you traindrivers could give me their point of view sincerely.

Thank you so much

 

[W230]

Could someone explain me how is the training normally for train drivers once they are hired in a railway operator?

Depends on the TOC although they are all similar. I spent around 3 months learning rules and regulations. Then another 6 weeks doing traction. I was in the job six months before I started doing my practical handling hours. We needed to complete 250hrs (though all of us on my intake were way over this) while also learning your routes.

What is the hardest thing to learn and mantain the knowledge?

The route knowledge was for me the hardest thing to learn because of the sheer mass of it. All the junctions/routes, speed restrictions for the whole route (might be fast and slow lines too), where you can and can't go, crossover speeds, shunting moves, platforms you can use and those you can't, diversionary routes for times of disruption, braking zones etc etc etc. I realise now that when I started doing my practical handling it wouldn't have made any difference if i'd be blindfolded as I was driving totally by my instructors word.

I would also like to know what is from your point of view the things that every train driver would like to refresh in order to mantain the competence. Or things to practice to become a better practiced train driver throw the years.

All of the above really! You are expected (and required) to update yourself on changes to rules and regulations, updates to traction and changes to the "permanent way" (new signalling/point/crossovers, changes in speed restrictions etc). I have only been in the job 5 minutes but I realise already that you never stop learning as things keep changing!

This site has a mass of information.

 

[elenag]

Depends on the TOC although they are all similar. I spent around 3 months learning rules and regulations. Then another 6 weeks doing traction. I was in the job six months before I started doing my practical handling hours. We needed to complete 250hrs (though all of us on my intake were way over this) while also learning your routes.


The route knowledge was for me the hardest thing to learn because of the sheer mass of it. All the junctions/routes, speed restrictions for the whole route (might be fast and slow lines too), where you can and can't go, crossover speeds, shunting moves, platforms you can use and those you can't, diversionary routes for times of disruption, braking zones etc etc etc. I realise now that when I started doing my practical handling it wouldn't have made any difference if i'd be blindfolded as I was driving totally by my instructors word.


All of the above really! You are expected (and required) to update yourself on changes to rules and regulations, updates to traction and changes to the "permanent way" (new signalling/point/crossovers, changes in speed restrictions etc). I have only been in the job 5 minutes but I realise already that you never stop learning as things keep changing!

This site has a mass of information.

Thank you so much for your answer. It is very helpful for me.