Locomotive Areas

Controlling Locomotive: Locomotive arranged as having the only controls over all electrical, mechanical and pneumatic functions for one or more locomotives, including controls transmitted by radio signals if so equipped. It does NOT include two or more locomotives coupled in multiple which can be moved from more than one set of locomotive controls.

Non-Controlling Locomotive: Independent brake valve – MU control valve is in the trail position, the automatic brake valve is in the handle off position, and the valve cut-out.

Locomotive and Car Shop Areas: When the blue signal regulations were originally implemented about 1976, it was quickly ascertained that there were problems associated with shop areas. It was virtually impossible for car and locomotive shops to comply and perform their mission. FRA issued a new rule soon afterward, and we essentially “gave up” absolute protection for a combination of good protection and “managerial control” within these areas. With this in mind, let’s review the requirements for shops.

Locomotive Servicing Track Area: One or more tracks within an area in which the testing, servicing, repair, inspection, or rebuilding of locomotives is under the exclusive control of mechanical department personnel. This can be tricky sometimes, particularly when the railroad employs “inside/outside” hostlers.

• Blue signal at or near each switch providing entrance to or departure from the area.
• Area switches lined away & locked.
• Blue signal attached to controlling locomotives (those being worked on).

A locomotive may be repositioned after removing its blue signal and workers on the affected track have been notified, if operated by an authorized employee under direction of the person in charge of workers. One or more tracks within an area in which the testing, servicing, repair, inspection, or rebuilding of railroad rolling equipment is under the exclusive control of mechanical department personnel.

1. Blue signal at or near each switch providing entrance to or departure from the area.
2. Area switches lined away & locked.
3. If speed in area is 5 mph or less, a locked derail (with blue signal) may be used instead of switch if positioned at least 50 ft. from equipment.
4. A car mover may be used to reposition rolling equipment after workers on the affected track have been notified but work on the track must cease until the movements have been completed

Remotely Controlled Switches/Derails in Shop Areas: There is no requirement for a written record if the person controlling switches/derails is of the same craft, and an effective locking device is established.