thesafeuseof unattendedrailwaylevelcrossings · unattended railway crossing you must shut the gates...
TRANSCRIPT
The SAFE use ofUnattended Railway Level Crossings
Foreword
An Unattended Railway Level Crossing is onewhere the user opens and shuts the gates.These level crossings are also commonly knownas Accommodation Level Crossings. Some ofthem are located on public roads. Clauses 20.2and 20.6 of this booklet give more detaileddefinitions.
This booklet does not necessarily cover everysituation that may arise in the course of using alevel crossing.
It is the responsibility of the user to ensure thatit is safe to cross and that the railway and otherusers of the railway are not endangered.
This Booklet is issued by Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail
Connolly StationDublin 1
1 Knowing the dangers2 Knowing your crossing3 Knowing the Railway4 The running of trains5 The speed of trains6 Viewing distances to trains7 Using the crossing and securing the gates8 Level crossing condition9 Making contact with Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail10 Pedestrians and cyclists11 How to herd animals safely12 Driving cars and light vehicles13 Driving tractors14 Driving lorries and trailers15 Driving slow, heavy, low-slung or cumbersome vehicles16 Driving vehicles carrying dangerous chemicals17 Special activities such as silage making and harvesting18 Level crossing signs and notices19 Black and yellow marker posts20 The legal position regarding accommodation
level crossings21 Level Crossing Hazard Checklist22 Contacting Iarnród Éireann
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This Booklet is issued by Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail
Connolly StationDublin 1
Contents
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Knowingthe dangers1
1.1 Trains travel fast and cannot stop suddenly.A fast train may take between 1/2 mile and onemile to stop.
1.2 Shut and fasten all gates at all times. Leaving gatesopen can result in children or animals wandering onto the line and may encourage unsuspecting driversof vehicles to go straight on to the level crossingbefore checking that it is safe to do so. Unfamiliarcrossing users or visiting public are more at riskwhen using Unattended Railway Level Crossings,this is why members of the public are no allowed touse field to field type crossing
1.3 Trains can be very silent and this is particularly thecase on modern continuously welded rails. Be verycareful in windy weather as wind can mask thenoise of approaching trains. Deafness, the use ofheadphones with personal stereos and the use ofcar radios will affect your ability to hearapproaching trains. Remember the wearing of earprotectors will also affect your ability to hear trains.Mobile phones must not be used during theprocess of working the crossing.
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1.5 Animals can behave in an unpredictable fashion.See section 11 of this booklet.
1.6 Collisions between trains and animals, includingcattle, have resulted in derailments.
1.7 Crossing the line with slow, heavy, low-slung orcumbersome vehicles, vehicles conveyingdangerous substances and with herds of animalsneeds special protection. See sections 11, 15 and16 of this booklet.
1.8 Level crossing features, such as gates, surfaces,and gradients should be suitable for the vehicles oranimals being taken across the line.If in doubt, contact Iarnród Éireann inadvance. Use one of the telephonenumbers given at the end of thisbooklet.
1.9 Always be very careful during the hoursof darkness as confusion may arisebetween the lights of approaching carsand trains.
1.10 Every time you cross the railway remember the Stop,Look, Listen rule.
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1: Knowing the dangers
BEWARE
STOPRAILWAY CROSSING
LOOKLISTENBEFORE CROSSING
1.4 Be aware that weather conditions such as mist, fog,or snow, as well as vegetation growth may affectthe warning you receive of approaching trains.
Knowingyour crossing2
2.1 Note the crossing number ‘line and location of yourcrossing. (See section 22)
2.2 Be aware of any dangers that the crossing may holdfor you. See also section 21 of this booklet.
2.3 Once the gates are safely opened, do not enter thecrossing if there is anything on the far side of it thatmay impede your safe passage across the railway,causing you to stop on the crossing, in the path of atrain. Make sure that you do not have to stop untilyou are well clear of the railway.
2.4 Warn other users about the crossing and advisethem to take care. This includes family members,those delivering goods, service people, doctors,employees, agricultural contractors, tenants andany others who may call to your home or farm.
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2.5 Offer others a free copy of this booklet. Furthersupplies can be obtained on request from IarnródÉireann. Ring the Infrastructure Manager, see section22 for telephone number. Also this booklet can bedownloaded from Iarnród Éireann websitewww.irishrail.ie
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2: Knowing your crossing
Knowingthe railway3
3.1 As stated previously, trains cannot stop quickly.A train travelling at 100 mph will cover 1/4 mile in 9seconds and a train going at 60 mph will cover thesame distance in 15 seconds.
3.2 A train overhangs the rails by a considerableamount. Never assume that a train is only as wideas the space between the rails.
3.3 Do not rely on any railway signals, provided for thecontrol of trains, to give you a guarantee that thereis no train approaching.
3.4 Remember unattended accommodation levelcrossings* are not protected by signals. A traindriver has no knowledge of your presence on thecrossing.
3.5 Do not make assumptions because you are familiarwith the train schedules. Trains can be delayed orindeed can be early, and additional trainmovements may take place.
*See section 20.2 and section 20.6
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3: Knowing the railway
The runningof trains
4.1 Apart from scheduled trains, additional trains areoften run. This can be a daily occurrence.
4.2 The majority of passenger and freight trains operateaccording to a fixed schedule.
4.3 For various reasons, trains may arrive early or bedelayed or have their schedules altered.
4.4 Never assume that because a train has just passedthe crossing there will not be another one for sometime. In certain circumstances trains can follow oneanother in quick succession. On double lines ofrailway a second train can arrive immediately afterafter the first one has passed, going in the same orthe opposite direction.
4.5 On double lines of railway there will be occasionswhen trains operate on a particular line in theopposite direction to normal. A train may come oneither line and in either direction.
4.6 Iarnród Éireann's significant investment in newrolling stock has led to the introduction of newservices on many lines. In addition to this thefrequency of trains will increase on some lines.
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4.7 When the engineers are working on the line, it ispossible for train movements to take place one afterthe other in quick succession.
4.8 In certain circumstances a train may be movingbackwards. Do not take for granted that seeing therear end of the train means that it is going away fromthe crossing. When operating in ‘push - pull’ mode,locomotives push trains. So be careful to rememberthat a train may be travelling towards you at a levelcrossing, even though you see no locomotive at thehead of the train.
4.9 Vigilance is also required on lines where trainmovements are not frequent
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4: The running of trains
The speedof trains5
5.1 Each railway line has its own maximum permittedtrain speed. This is reviewed periodically. As trackrelaying and other railway improvements take placetrain speeds may be increased.
5.2 The permitted train speed may be reduced for aperiod of time for maintenance reasons. Whenwork has been completed the permitted speed willbe increased again.
5.3 The actual speed of a train will depend on anumber of factors such as the type of train and thelocation along the line.
5.4 Always use the level crossing in such a manner thattakes account of the fastest train.
5.5 If in doubt, contact the Infrastructure Managers(see section 22) for information on the currentmaximum speed of trains at the crossing.
5.6 Remember that even at slow speed a train cannotstop quickly.
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5: The speed of trains
Viewing distancesto trains6
6.1 A train travelling at 100 mph will cover 1/4 mile in 9seconds and a train going at 60 mph will cover thesame distance in 15 seconds.
6.2 Iarnród Éireann endeavours to maintain maximumsighting distances by trimming banks and cuttinggrass, bushes and trees. Please ring Iarnród Éireannif views are being obscured. See section 22.6 forthe Infrastructure Manager’s location andtelephone number. Always quote the crossingnumber.
6.3 In some locations, bridges, buildings andembankments may restrict the available views oftrains. In these cases a whistle board is erected towarn train drivers to sound the hooter, whenapproaching.
6.4 If you see a train approaching or hear the hootersounding do not use the crossing. Clear the lineimmediately of any movement under way.
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6: Viewing distances to trains
Using the crossingand securing thegates
7.1 It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that it issafe to cross and that the railway and other usersof the railway are not endangered.
7.2 Stop clear of the railway line where you get a goodview along the track in both distances. Look for theapproach of trains, especially in poor visibility or atnight. Watch out for the light on an approachingtrain. Listen for horns or the sound of anapproaching train.
When using the level crossing, open both gatesbefore attempting to bring a vehicle or herd ofanimals across the railway line. Open the oppositegate first.
7.3 Before attempting to cross, always examine therailway from the best vantage point to check forapproaching trains. If the location of your crossingis such that a good view is not available, you shouldprovide yourself with the necessary assistance toenable the maximum view to be obtained. Shut andfasten the gates immediately after using thecrossing.
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7.4 The crossing of members of the public at field to fieldcrossings is not allowed as it is not a normalagricultural activity.
7.5 In the case of field crossings make sure that thecrossing gates are shut with their bolts home in theslapping posts and that they are padlocked when notin use.
7.6 With occupation level crossings (see section 20.6),whilst the padlocking of gates may not be practicaldue to the number of authorised users, there must bestrict compliance with the rule regarding the shuttingand fastening of gates after use.
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7: Using the crossing and securing the gates
Using the crossingand securing thegates
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7.7 Never lend the padlock key for the crossing gatesnor permit the crossing to be used by another partyon your behalf unless you are absolutely satisfiedthat these instructions have been fully read andunderstood and that such a person is fully aware ofthe responsibilities involved.
7.8 Whenever possible, do not use the level crossingduring the inclement weather which may restrictyour mobility or may affect your ability to see anapproaching train. Such conditions include snow,fog, floods and the like. If you must cross, takeextra care.
7.9 Should a vehicle suffer a breakdown or becomegrounded on the crossing, make sure thateverybody gets out and gets clear of the line, thentelephone or otherwise warn Iarnród Éireann of thedanger immediately by the best available means.
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7: Using the crossing and securing the gates
Level crossingcondition8
8.1 Contact Iarnród Éireann should repairs be requiredto the level crossing gates, fences, surfaces, cattlegrids, signs and telephones where provided, or ifthe views of trains are being obstructed byvegetation. ‘See section 22 for the InfrastructureManagers location and telephone number.
8.2 You must not use the level crossing for a purposefor which it is not designed.
8.3 Make sure that the gradient up to the railway line isnot too severe. Severe changes in gradient cancause grounding of vehicles.
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8.4 Make sure that the level crossing is wide enough foruse. In certain circumstances, Iarnród Éireann willenter into an agreement with a landowner for thewidening of a crossing.
8.5 Under no circumstances attempt to alter the levelcrossing without written permission from IarnródÉireann.
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8: Level crossing condition
Making contact withIarnród Éireann /Irish Rail
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9.1 You may wish to contact IarnródÉireann by telephone to obtain traininformation, to seek permission tocross, or to warn about a danger thathas arisen at a level crossing. Thissection deals with communications.
9.2 If the level crossing has beenprovided with a telephone in a yellowbox always use it before herding animals or whendriving a vehicle across the railway.
9.3 If there is no yellow telephone provided then youmay contact Iarnród Éireann by ringing thecontrolling signalman. The controlling signalmantelephone number is supplied at the level crossing.
9.4 If you are unable to get a reply on telephoning thesignalman, you must exercise care when crossing.If your movement requires permission, you must not
attempt to cross the line until you have contacted thesignalman and obtained the required permission.
9.5 It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that it issafe to cross and that the railway and other users ofthe railway are not endangered.
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Please CloseDoor After Use
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9.6 If you ring up Iarnród Éireann remember you will begiven information about train times so that you canmake an informed judgement as to when it is safestfor you to cross the railway. Remember the official towhom you speak will be remote from your levelcrossing and will have less information than you haveas to the particular circumstances at the crossing atthe time you wish to cross, such as weatherconditions, visibility, surface condition of levelcrossing, the size of herds or size of vehicle.Therefore you must use all the available informationin deciding to cross at the appropriate time.
9.7 In the case of slow, heavy, low-slung orcumbersome vehicles you must obtainpermission from the controlling signalman tocross the line in advance and in good time. Youshould advise the type of vehicle you intend bringingacross and you should also advise the likely durationof your movement as specialarrangements will haveto be made for the safe useof the level crossing.
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9: Making contact with Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail
Making contact withIarnród Éireann /Irish Rail
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9.8 The movement of herds of bullocks and other veryunpredictable animals (more than two) must be putinto the same category as slow, heavy, low-slungand cumbersome vehicles in clause 9.7. This meansthat such movements should be preplanned andpermission to cross the line must be obtainedfrom the controlling signalman in advance and ingood time.
9.9 The crossing of the railway with vehicles carryingdangerous substances also requires permissionto cross and the movement must be preplanned(see also clause 16.3).
9.10 Always observe the “ring back” rule if you havecontacted Iarnród Éireann by telephone. If you failto do this the signalman may have to delayfollowing trains.
9.11 Always remember to ring up asking for protectionwhen making silage, making hay or duringharvesting. See section 17.
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9.12 Always give the level crossing number (this can befound at the level crossing) when you telephoneIarnród Éireann. You should also give your name andthe reason for the phone call.
9.13 If you are letting out your land, inform Iarnród Éireannimmediately of the name, address and telephonenumber of your tenant and the date that the lettingcommences.
This obligation applies also to renewals of lettingsand/or to changes in the identity of tenants due tosuccession or otherwise.
In addition, furnish the tenant with a copy of thisbooklet and make compliance with its contents, andwith the contents of the Notices adjacent toaccommodation crossings on the land being let, aterm of the letting.
9.14 If you are selling your land or are transferring it to amember of your family, inform Iarnród Éireann of thename and address of the Purchaser/Transferee andthe date of sale or transfer.
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9: Making contact with Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail
Pedestrians andcyclists crossingthe railway
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Pedestrians and cyclists crossing the railway
10.1 When approaching the railway, pedestrians andcyclists should always remember the stop, lookand listen rule.
10.2 Pedestrians and cyclists on seeing an approachingtrain should wait and never run or cycle across theline in front of the train.
10.3 When standing clear of the railway line keep atleast 2 metres (six feet) from the nearest rail.
10.4 Take care not to push a pram too close to the linewhen looking out for trains or while waiting fortrains to pass.
10.5 Children of primary school age, especially withbicycles, should never be allowed to cross therailway alone.
10.6 Cyclists must dismount and walk across the lineeven if the gates are open.
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10.7 Should a bicycle wheel or the like become jammedon the crossing in the track, and should a trainapproach, then the bicycle should be abandonedand the person involved should move to a place ofsafety, clear of the railway line.
10.8 Dogs must be kept on a lead when using a crossing.
10.9 Should the level crossing gates be found to havebeen left open by a previous user then they must beshut and fastened immediately.
10.10 Pedestrians and cyclists should be alert to noticeany problem with a level crossing and shouldtelephone details of such to Iarnród Éireann. Seesection 22 for the Infrastructure Managers locationand telephone number.
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10: Pedestrians and cyclists crossing the railway
How to herdanimals safelyacross the railway
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11.1 The movement of a herd of cattle (i.e. more thantwo animals) should be carefully planned.Information on train times may be obtained fromthe controlling signalman (telephone number atcrossing).
In the case of bullocks and other very unpredictableanimals the movement must be preplanned andpermission to cross the line must be obtainedfrom the controlling signalman, in advance and ingood time.
11.2 The movement of other animals, including horsesand hunt and hounds, must follow the samerequirements, laid down in paragraph one ofclause 11.1.
11.3 Remember animals of different types and breedsbehave in differing ways. Different animals willrequire varied handling procedures such as the useof holding pens adjacent to the crossing.
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11.4 At least two people, not less than sixteen yearsof age, must be in charge when animals which areeasily controlled, are being driven across the line. Thisincludes dairy cattle, pigs, sheep and other animals.Such people are necessary to keep a look-out fortrains, and to assist the safe passage of such animals,singly or in herds or in flocks, over the crossing.
11.5 Where permitted, dairy cattle may be “drifted" acrossthe railway in single file. When making a movementwith dairy cattle, you should be ready to cut off theline of animals the moment you see a trainapproaching. This is done by closing the gate throughwhich access to the railway was gained.
11.6 Bullocks and other animals of a nervous dispositionneed special handling. At least three people, not lessthan 16 years of age, must be in charge, exceptwhere the crossing is provided with fencing/holdingpens and cattle grids which cut off access along therailway track, when two people must control themovement. Such movements should bepreplanned with prior communication with IarnródÉireann regarding the proposed movement acrossthe level crossing. See clause 11.1 and section 22 atthe end of this booklet for telephone numbers.
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11: How to herd animals safely across the railway
How to herdanimals safelyacross the railway
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11.7 Never attempt to start a movement of animalsacross the line unless you know that you cancomplete it or curtail it safely and in time.Information on train movements, and permission inadvance, as required, may be obtained from thecontrolling signalman, see telephone number atcrossings.
11.8 If an animal or animals stray or escape on to therailway either through a gap in a fence or by meansof an open gate always advise the signalmanimmediately. See telephone number at crossing.
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11: How to herd animals safely across the railway
Driving cars and lightvehicles (vans),includingtrailers, across therailway
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12.1 Make sure that your vehicle, including tow bar andtrailer, is in good mechanical condition and unlikelyto stall on the crossing.
12.2 Make sure that the handbrake is in good workingorder.
12.3 Make sure that the vehicle is not fogged up insideand that all the windows are clear of snow, ice anddirt and that nothing is blocking your view.
12.4 Open at least one window before crossing therailway.
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12.5 Turn off all radios, stereos and the like and removepersonal stereo headphones. Noise may mask thesound of an approaching train. Mobile phones mustnot be used during the process of working thecrossing.
12.6 Be aware of any dangers that the crossing may holdfor you. See also section 21 of this booklet.
12.7 Stop clear of the railway line where you get a goodview along the track in both directions. Look for theapproach of trains, especially in poor visibility or atnight. Watch out for the light on an approaching train.When using the level crossing, open both gatesbefore attempting to bring a vehicle across therailway line. Open the opposite gate first.
12.8 Use the black and yellow marker posts, whereprovided, when stopping. If there are no such markersthen stop at least 2 metres (6 feet) clear of thenearest rail. See also section 19.
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12: Driving cars and light vehicles across the railway
Driving cars and lightvehicles (vans),includingtrailers, across therailway
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12.9 You may obtain information on train movementsby telephoning the controlling signalman (seetelephone number at crossing) or by using theyellow telephone, where provided, to ensure safepassage across the railway line. Always ring asecond time to notify Iarnród Éireann that thecrossing is now clear.
12.10 Should a vehicle suffer a breakdown or becomegrounded on the level crossing, make sure thateverybody gets out and gets clear of the railwayline, then telephone or otherwise warn IarnródÉireann of the danger immediately by the bestpossible means.
12.11 Having used the level crossing, make certain thatboth gates have been shut and fastened.
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12: Driving cars and light vehicles across the railway
Driving tractorsacross therailway
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13.1 Make sure that the tractor, including trailer, is in goodmechanical condition and unlikely to stall on the crossing.
13.2 Make sure that the handbrake is in good working order.
13.3 Make sure that the cab windows are not fogged upinside and that all windows are clear of snow, ice anddirt and that nothing is blocking your view.
13.4 Open at least one window before crossing.
13.5 Turn off all radios, stereos and the like and removepersonal stereo headphones. Noise may mask thesound of an approaching train. Mobile phones mustnot be used during the process of working the crossing.
13.6 Remember the wearing of ear protectors willreduce your ability to hear trains. Protectors shouldbe removed when driving across the line.
13.7 Ensure that no tow-hitch or other attachment willfoul the railway line as you traverse the level crossing.
13.8 Be aware of any dangers that the level crossing mayhold for you. See also section 21 of this booklet.
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13.9 Stop clear of the railway line where you get a goodview along the track in both directions. Look for theapproach of trains, especially in poor visibility or atnight. Watch out for the light on an approaching train.Listen for horns or the sound of an approaching train.When using the level crossing, open both gatesbefore attempting to bring a vehicle across therailway line. Open the opposite gate first.
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13: Driving tractors across the railway
Driving tractorsacross therailway
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13.10 Use the black and yellow marker posts, whereprovided, when stopping. Make sure thatequipment, such as buckets, grabs, forks and thelike, attached to the front of the tractor does notprotrude beyond the marked posts. If there are noblack and yellow markers posts then stop in sucha manner that no part of the tractor or itsload is closer than 2 metres (6 feet) to thenearest rail. See also section 19.
13.11 Great care must be taken when driving a tractorwhich is carrying a load on its forks. A number ofdangers may arise. When going down a slopetowards the railway or when travelling over achange in gradient the load could shift and fall off.The load may fall on to the railway line,obstructing it. Under severe conditions the tractormay even turn over if care is not taken. When atractor is being driven over the railway line withloaded forks it is necessary to have anotherperson in attendance. A helper, not less thansixteen years of age, must assist themovement. This person should assist the driver inkeeping a look out for trains and should make surethat the load being carried does not obstruct inany way the path of a passing train.
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Look out for any uneveness in the crossing surfacethat could upset the load.
13.12 You may obtain information on train movements bytelephoning the controlling signalman (seetelephone number at crossing) or by using thetelephone in a yellow box, where provided, toensure safe passage across the railway line. Alwaysring a second time to notify Iarnród Éireann that thecrossing is now clear.
13.13 Should a tractor suffer a breakdown or becomegrounded on the level crossing, make sure thateverybody gets out and gets clear of the railwayline, then telephone or otherwise warn of thedanger immediately by the best possible means.
13.14 Having used the level crossing, make certain thatboth gates have been shut and fastened.
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13: Driving tractors across the railway
Driving lorriesacross therailway
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14.1 Make sure that the lorry, including trailer, is in goodmechanical condition and unlikely to stall on thecrossing.
14.2 Make sure that the handbrake is in good workingorder.
14.3 Make sure that the cab windows are not fogged upinside and that all the windows are clear of snow,ice and dirt and that nothing is blocking your view.
14.4 Open at least one window before crossing.
14.5 Turn off all radios, stereos and the like andremove personal stereo headphones. Noise maymask the sound of an approaching train. Mobilephones must not be used during the process ofworking the crossing.
14.6 Ensure that no tow-hitch or other attachments willfoul the railway line as you traverse the levelcrossing.
14.7 Be aware of any dangers that the level crossingmay hold for you. See also section 21 of thisbooklet.
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14.8 Stop clear of the railway line where you get a goodview along the track in both directions. Look for theapproach of trains, especially in poor visibility or atnight. Watch out for the light on an approaching train.Listen for horns or the sound of an approaching train.When using the level crossing, open both gatesbefore attempting to bring a vehicle across therailway line. Open the opposite gate first.
14.9 Use the black and yellow marker posts, whereprovided, when stopping. If there are no such markersthen stop at least 2 metres (6 feet) clear of thenearest rail. See also section 19.
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14: Driving lorries across the railway
Driving lorriesacross therailway
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14.10 When crossing the railway with a light lorry youmay ring the controlling signalman (seetelephone number at crossing) to obtaininformation on train movements. Use the yellowtelephone where provided.
14.11 Heavy lorries and lorries with trailers must bedealt with as described in section 15, (Drivingslow, heavy, low slung and cumbersome vehiclesacross the railway). This means that permission tocross the line must be obtained from thecontrolling signalman for such movements acrossthe railway (see telephone number at crossing).
14.12 Should a lorry suffer a breakdown or becomegrounded on the level crossing, make sure thateverybody gets out and gets clear of the railwayline, then telephone or otherwise warn IarnródÉireann of the danger immediately by the bestpossible means.
14.13 Having used the level crossing make certain thatboth gates have been shut and fastened.
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14: Driving lorries across the railway
Driving, slow, heavy,low-slung and cumbersomevehicles acrossthe railway
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15.1 You must obtain permission to cross the railwayline from Iarnród Éireann in advance and in goodtime (see section 22). You should advise the typeof vehicle you intend bringing across the line andyou should also advise the likely duration of themovement as special arrangements may have tobe made for the safe use of the level crossing.Always advise Iarnród Éireann when the levelcrossing has been safely traversed.
15.2 Never attempt to cross the railway with a vehiclewhich may ground on the railway line. You couldcause a serious accident. You may also causedelays to train services while the problem is beingresolved.
15.3 Safe passage with an unladen trailer does notguarantee that all will be well on the returnjourney, if the vehicle is laden.
15.4 Make sure that the level crossing gates aresufficiently wide for the vehicle to pass withoutbecoming jammed and without damaging eitherthe gates or their supports.
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15.5 Should a vehicle suffer a breakdown or becomegrounded on the level crossing, make sure thateverybody gets out and gets clear of the railwayline, then telephone or otherwise warn IarnródÉireann of the danger immediately by the bestpossible means.
15.6 Having used the level crossing make certain thatboth gates have been shut and fastened.
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15: Driving, slow, heavy, vehicles across the railway
Driving vehiclescarrying dangeroussubstances acrossthe railway
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16.1 This section should be read in conjunction withsections 12, 13 and 14.
16.2 Dangerous substances should be taken to includepetrol, diesel oil, liquid gas, bottled gas, toxicchemicals and the like.
16.3 You must obtain permission to cross the railwayline from Iarnród Éireann in good time (seesection 22). You should advise the type of vehicleand load you intend bringing across the railwayline. You should also advise the likely duration ofyour movement as special arrangements will haveto be made for the safe use of the level crossing.Always advise Iarnród Éireann when the levelcrossing has been safely traversed.
16.4 Drivers of vehicles carrying dangerous substancesacross the railway, should be given a copy of thisbooklet. They should be advised of the presenceof an unattended accommodation* level crossingof the route leading to the delivery point.
*See clause 20.2 and clause 20.6.
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16.5 Should a vehicle carrying dangerous substancessuffer a breakdown or become grounded on thelevel crossing, make sure that everybody gets outand gets clear of the railway line, then telephone orotherwise warn Iarnród Éireann of the dangerimmediately by the best possible means. Thevehicle driver should wait in the vicinity to provideinformation to the emergency services if necessary.
16.6 Having used the level crossing make certain thatboth gates have been shut and fastened.
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16: Driving vehicles carrying dangerous substances
Special farm activities, suchas silage making, hay makingand harvesting, necessitatingrepeated movements acrossthe railway
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17.1 If you intend undertaking an activity, such as silagemaking, involving repeated movements ofvehicles across the railway, then you should makeprior arrangements with Iarnród Éireann to havespecial protection provided. Give at least 48hours notice (see section 22).
17.2 No such movements may take place across therailway until the special protection, which couldinvolve the provision of an Iarnród Éireannflagman, is in place. All instructions given by theflagman must be fully obeyed at all times inrelation to the crossing of the line.
17.3 If you employ outside contractors to carry outwork of any kind then the above arrangementsmust apply, and it is your responsibility to seethat the contractor is fully aware of the safetyrequirements at the crossing. Supply thecontractor with a copy of this booklet. Thecrossing of members of the public at field to fieldcrossings is not allowed as it is not a normalagricultural active.
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17.4 Where the current widening agreement has beenentered into, Iarnród Éireann will pay 50% of theflagman cost.
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17: Special farm activities
Level crossingsigns and notices18
18.1 Read all the Iarnród Éireann signs and noticesdisplayed at the level crossing. Satisfy yourselfthat you understand them.
18.2 Obey all of the instructions given by the signs andnotices.
18.3 Each level crossing is given a unique number.Make sure that you know and use this numberwhen ringing up Iarnród Éireann. You should alsouse the level crossing number when writing toIarnród Éireann.
18.4 If you should notice that a sign has been damagedor that one is missing from the level crossing thenadvise Iarnród Éireann. By so doing you may helpto prevent an accident.
18.5 See the following pages for details of a selectionof typical signs found at unattendedaccommodation level crossings.
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18: Level crossing signs and notices
XC345CROSSING NUMBER
KEEP THESE GATES SHUT
DÚNTAR NA GEATAÍ SEO
“No Trespass”sign displayed at level crossings
Number plate givingunique number of levelcrossing displayed atlevel crossings
Sign displayed atgates of all levelcrossings, warningthat gates must bekept shut and givinginstructions aboutthe safe use of thecrossings
DO NOT TRESPASSON THE RAILWAY
RABHADH
WARNING
Ná déan foghailAr an iarnród
Level crossingsigns and notices18
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BEWARE
STOPRAILWAY CROSSING
LOOKLISTENBEFORE CROSSING
Have you shut thecrossing gates?
THINK SAFETY
Warning sign forPedestrians
Sign reminding users to shutthe level crossings gates
DANGERRAILWAY LEVEL CROSSING
CARELESS USE OF THIS CROSSING.....
TAKE EXTREME CARE AND USE TELEPHONE IFYOU ARE IN CHARGE OF....
USE THE CROSSING IN A SAFE MANNERSHUT THE GATES AFTER USE
See ‘Keep the Gates Shut’ sign at/on the gates forfurther instructions, also telephone number of
Controlling Signalman.
May endanger your life.May endanger the lives of train crews andpassengers.
Animals, especially bulllocks or similar.Slow, heavy, low-slung, cumbersomevehiclesVehicles conveying dangerous substances.
Sign displayed at level crossings,warning of dangers involved incrossings.
Sign reminding usersto shut the levelcrossings gates
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18: Level crossing signs and notices
“Puffing Billy” Signdisplayed at or nearlevel crossings
DANGERUnattended Railway
Crossing
YOU Must Shut The Gates
Stop,Look Both Ways, Listen,Cross Safely, Shut the Gates
Face Penalty: Prosecution (up to €600)If in doubt phone the Signalman on Lo-Call
1890 XX XX XX
Save Lives
Sign displayed atlevel crossings,warning of dangersinvolved in crossings.
Black and yellowmarker posts19
19.1 Black and yellow marker posts are beingintroduced at certain level crossings. These are toindicate a safe point at which to stop clear of therailway line, while checking the view along thetrack.
19.2 The markers are positioned at 2 metres (6 feet)from the nearest rail and on each approach to therailway line.
19.3 There is a requirement that every time a vehicle ormachine is being driven across the level crossing,after opening both gates, it must be stoppedbefore any part of it passes the markers. Thevehicle driver, having stopped and made certainthat it is safe to cross the railway line, may thenmove off and proceed to cross the railway.
19.4 It is vital to stop well clear of the railway linewhether or not black and yellow markers havebeen erected.
19.5 By stopping 2 metres (6 feet) clear of the line thevehicle will be clear of any passing train. You mustalways stop at the markers, with your entirevehicle, including attachments, behind them.
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19.6 Remember if black and yellow markers are notprovided at the crossing, then you must ensure thatno part of your vehicle or machine, includingattachments and load, stops closer than 2 metres (6feet) to the line.
19.7 On traversing the line, do not stop until every part ofyour vehicle or machine, including attachments andload, is fully beyond the marker on the other side ofthe crossing or is at least 2 metres (six feet) clear ofthe railway.
19.8 Having used the crossing make certain that bothgates have been shut and fastened.
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19: Black and yellow marker posts
The legal positionregarding unattendedaccommodationlevel crossings
20
20.1 It is the responsibility of the user to ensure it issafe to cross and that the railway and other usersof the railway are not endangered.
20.2 An unattended accommodation level crossing, orthe type commonly known as a field crossing, isprovided solely for the use of a landowner toenable movements to be made from one side ofthe railway to the other for the purposes ofnormal agricultural activity.
20.3 Under certain circumstances, Iarnród Éireann willenter into a legal agreement with a landowner,enabling the crossing to be widened. One of theconditions of such an agreement is that thecrossing gates must be padlocked after use.
20.4 Additional traffic across the level crossing, arisingfrom the development of any new business oractivity on a landowner’s, or adjoining property, isnot permitted.
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20.5 Iarnród Éireann has the legal right to close a levelcrossing when the land on each side of the railwayis no longer in the same ownership.
20.6 An accommodation level crossing, or the typecommonly known as an occupation crossing, isprovided to give access to one or more privatedwellings or farms.
20.7 No increased use of the crossing can be permitteddue to the building of any new dwelling house orhouses on the side of the railway remote from apublic road.
20.8 There is a legal requirement for users to close alllevel crossing gates after use.
20.9 Always remembers that you are liable to a fine inexcess of €1000 for failing to shut the level crossinggates.
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20: The legal position
Level CrossingHazard Checklist21
21.1 As a level crossing user, you should make yourselfaware of particular hazards the crossing may holdfor you.
21.2 The following list of questions will help you torecognise potential hazards which may beassociated with the level crossing you use:
• Are gates left open a problem at the levelcrossing?
• Do you use the level crossing during bad weathersuch as fog and falling snow, or during the hoursof darkness?
• Do children use the level crossing?
• Do you know where you must stop whenchecking for approaching trains?
• Do buildings, bridges, vegetation or other featuresin the vicinity of the level crossing, block yourview of approaching trains?
• Does noise at the level crossing mask the soundof approaching trains?
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• Does anything distract your attention while you areusing the level crossing?
• Can anything in the vicinity frighten animals whilethey are crossing?
• Do you see the level crossing for any purpose otherthan that for which it was designed?
• If you are an infrequent user of the level crossing,are you aware of the dangers involved?
• Do tailbacks occur on the level crossing?
• Could steep gradients cause your vehicle to groundon the level crossing?
This list is by no means exhaustive. Theremay be other hazards that apply to the levelcrossing you use.
21.3 You should take time to identify those hazardswhich apply to you and be aware of them each timeyou use the level crossing.
21.4 It is very important to carefully follow theinstructions in this booklet every time you use thelevel crossing.
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21: Level Crossing Hazard Checklist
ContactingIarnród Éireann22
22.1 Emergency
In case of any emergency telephone thecontrolling signalman using the telephone numbersupplied at the level crossing.
22.2 Permission to cross, where required
For permission where required to cross therailway, call the controlling signalman using thetelephone number supplied at the level crossings.
22.3 Contacting IÉ
For additional copies of this booklet seewww.irishrail.ie or contact your local InfrastructureManager, enquires regarding the level crossingyou use or reporting of damaged to level crossinginfrastructure contact the relevant InfrastructureManager in your area:
• Infrastructure Manager Athlone (covers thewest of the country) 090 6487711
• Infrastructure Manager Dublin (covers theNorth & East of the country) 01 7033651
• Infrastructure Manager Limerick Junction(covers the South & South West of the Country)062 5108358
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