CTC limits are designated in the timetable. A train must not enter or occupy any track where CTC is in effect unless:
Signal Governing Movement Over a Hand-Operated Switch
If a signal governs movement over a hand-operated switch that is not electrically locked, the control operator must authorize the train to enter the main track or controlled siding before the switch is opened. After the switch is opened, if the signal does not display a proceed indication, notify the control operator and move the train at restricted speed.
However, if the block to be entered is occupied by its own standing train, the movement may, after stopping, pass an absolute signal displaying a Stop indication without contacting the control operator.
Where CTC is in effect, a train must not clear in any track at a hand-operated switch not equipped with an electric switch lock, except under one of the following conditions:
Where the maximum authorized speed does not exceed 20 MPH on the main track or a controlled siding equipped with an intermediate signal.
Where the maximum authorized speed does not exceed 30 MPH on a controlled siding not equipped with an intermediate signal.
Where a signal governs movement to a track where CTC is in effect.
When the hand-operated switch is kept open.
The control operator may authorize a train to occupy a track or tracks within specified limits for a certain time period. Authority must include track designation, track limits, and time limit. The train may use the track in either direction within the specified limits, until the limits are verbally released, without providing flag protection. The train must move at restricted speed.
Limits designated by a switch extend only to the signal governing movement over the switch unless otherwise designated. Track and time does not authorize trains to occupy the main track within interlocking limits.
A. Passing Signal Displaying Stop or Stop and Proceed Indication
Except at interlockings, trains granted track and time:
B. Additional Time
Trains must release track and time before the time granted expires. If the train requires additional time, a crew member must obtain authority from the control operator before time expires. If the crew member cannot contact the control operator and time limits expire, authority is extended until the control operator is contacted.
C. Track and Time Release Within the Limits
If no other employee has received track and time within the same limits, a train may release track and time to move in a specified direction. Signal indications will then govern the train, if the control operator verbally authorizes the release specifying direction of movement.
Before granting track and time, the control operator must apply blocking or marking devices to the control machine to prevent movement into the limits. The control operator may only grant track and time:
Blocking or marking devices must not be removed until track and time has been released to the control operator. Other movements must not be authorized into the limits unless also granted track and time.
Machines, track cars, or employees will receive track and time in the same manner as trains.
Machines, track cars, or employees must be clear of the limits before the employee granted track and time releases the authority. If track and time is granted to protect maintenance work, the employee must notify the control operator when the work is complete and the track is safe for train passage.
Before track and time is granted for machines, track cars, or employees in the same limits with a train, each foreman and a crew member of each train must be notified of each other.
When track and time is granted to protect maintenance or repair work, trains must not receive track and time within the same limits, unless the trains and foreman in charge of the work understand the conditions and movements that will be made.
The employee requesting track and time will state name, occupation, location, and train or other identification. The employee will then repeat the authority granted. If the authority is repeated correctly, the control operator will acknowledge. The train can make no movement until the engineer understands the track and time granted.
The control operator must maintain a record of authority . granted including the time the track and time was released.
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