8.1 Hand Operation of Switches

Employees handling switches and derails must make sure:

• The switches and derails are properly lined for the intended route,
• The points fit properly and the target, if so equipped, corresponds with the switch's position.
• When the operating lever is equipped with a latch, they do not step on the latch to release the lever except when throwing the switch.
• After locking a switch or derail, they test the lock to ensure it is secured.

However, the main track switch may be left open:

• In CTC territory within track and time limits.
• When attended by a crew member or switch tender.
• During switching operations when it is certain that no other train or engine will pass over the switch.
• For another train or engine when the switch is attended by a member of that crew.
• Within ABS limits when instructed by the train dispatcher at:
  • The entering switch of a siding in Rule 9.14 (Movement with the Current of Traffic) territory.
  • Either switch of a siding in Rule 16.1 (Authority to Enter DTC Limits) territory.
    or

    Within TWC territory when authorized by track warrant. Track warrant protection must be provided for this condition. The switch must not be considered restored to normal position until the train dispatcher is notified by an employee at that location.

In non-signaled territory, if the expected train is not closely approaching, a crew member will inspect facing point, hand-operated switches the train will pass over to determine that the:

• Switches are lined for the intended route.
• Switch points fit properly.
• Switch lever is secured.

8.8 Switches Equipped with Locks, Hooks, or Latches

Replace any missing or defective switch locks. If they cannot be replaced, report the condition at once to the train dispatcher, yardmaster, or supervisor in charge, and spike the switch if possible.

8.9.1 Testing Spring Switch

A train or engine making a facing point movement over a spring switch must stop, and a crew member must test the switch when any of the following conditions exist:

1. A block signal governing movement over the switch indicates:
   Stop
   Stop and Proceed
   or
   Restricted Proceed

   A switch point indicator protecting the switch indicates Stop and Inspect Switch.

   or

   The switch is not protected by a block signal or switch point indicator.

8.9.3 Hand Operating a Spring Switch Before Making a Trailing Movement

When a train is stopped by a signal governing trailing movement through a spring switch and the switch is equipped with a facing point lock, operate the switch by hand. Do not return the switch to normal position until after movement is complete.

Before a train makes a trailing movement through a spring switch not equipped with a facing point lock, and only hand operation can establish block signal protection, line the switch for the intended route. Return the switch to normal position after leading wheels have passed both insulated joints.

8.9.4 During Snow or Ice Storms

• A switch point indicator shows that the switch is properly lined.
  or

  A distant signal displays clear.

8.10 Switch Point Indicator

8.11 Switches in Sidings

8.12 Crossover Switches

Both switches of a crossover must be opened before a crossover movement starts, and movement must be complete before either switch is returned to normal position.

8.13 Scale Track Switches

Crossover switches must not be unlocked or lined for crossover movement when another movement is approaching or passing over either switch.

An engine or car that partially runs through a switch must continue movement over the switch. The engine or car must not change direction over a damaged switch until it has been spiked or repaired.

When making a trailing point movement and the switch is not lined for such movement, make sure all wheels of the leading car or unit clear the switch points before changing direction.

During snow storms, ice storms, or other conditions that may prevent a variable switch from functioning properly, avoid making a trailing point movement through a variable switch until it has been lined by hand for movement.

• Stop the leading end of movement within 200 feet of the absolute signal that governs movement over the switch.
• Operate the push button on the signal mast.

When the signal that governs movement over an automatic switch displays a Stop indication, the switch must be operated by hand before proceeding.

Operating an Automatic Switch by Hand

To operate an automatic switch by hand, the crew member must stop the train for the signal that governs movement over the switch and then do the following:

• Unlock the switch lock.
• Place the selector lever in the HAND position.
• Operate the hand throw lever until the switch points move when the lever is moved.
• Line the switch for the intended route.
• Do not return the selector lever to the POWER position until at least one unit or car has passed over the switch.

On Siding. A train operating on a siding must be stopped before it passes the overlap sign until it is authorized to proceed.

Entering Main Track. A train that is about to enter the main track and is authorized to proceed must move past the overlap sign. Further movement must not be made until the signal governing movement over the switch displays a proceed indication. If the signal does not display a proceed indication within 5 minutes, a crew member must operate the switch by hand as specified in Rule 9.17 (Entering Main Track at Hand-Operated or Spring Switch), waiting an additional 5 minutes, if necessary.

8.20 Derail Location and Position

Do not make a movement over a derail in derailing position.

Except when derails are placed in non-derailing position to permit movement, make sure they are always in derailing position regardless of whether cars are on the track they are protecting. Lock all derails equipped with a lock.