modern power signalling systems
The modern signalling systems and the application of digital technologies to improve the functioning of signalling equipment.
digital
Rail traffic controllers operate signals and points that help make sure trains run safely and on time. They operate from a signal box in order to control the order and movement of trains and ensure safety at all times. They are responsible for maintaining safety standards when trains are running normally and also in degraded or emergency operational situations.
Competences and skills
25 ESCO relationsEssential knowledge 4 competences
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
3 competencessignal box parts
The structures located besides railway tracks known as signal boxes, interlocking towers, signal posts, and signal cabins, from which signals, points, and other equipment are controlled.
signal boxes
The different kinds of signal boxes, such as older signal boxes utilising levers and manual equipment, LED-based panel signal boxes, and integrated electronic systems.
Cross-sector
1 competencemechanics of trains
The mechanical aspects and principles of the mechanics involved in trains.
Essential skills and competences 17 competences
Occupation specific
3 competencesmanage train working timetable
Manage the train working timetable that shows every movement on the railway network. Prepare for the arrival and departure of every train, intermediate points, and appropriate passing points.
operate train integrated electronic control centre
Operate integrated electronic control centres where signallers apply modern-day technological operating systems and equipment to control train progression over long stretches of railway track.
digital
oversee the daily train operations plan
Check the daily train plan and oversee operations according to the trains running in a specific area; be aware of any timetable changes or speed limitations and any line or electrical malfunctions.
Sector-specific
10 competencesmaintain computerised records of railway traffic
Keep digital records of railway activities, such as the coordination and direction of railway traffic, issuing of permits and authorisations, and general traffic monitoring.
digital
maintain railway signal equipment
Test, operate, and maintain railway signalling equipment such as power switches and grade crossing warning devices.
operate LED-based panel signal boxes
Work with high tech LED-based signal boxes; a signaller flips switches and pushes buttons to manipulate train movements on stretches of track up to 50 miles long.
operate railway communication systems
Operate railway communication systems. Make announcements over the public address system or communicate with central train administration.
operate train signalling equipment
Operate train signals to indicate whether or not train drivers may proceed. Manipulate light signals or barriers. Control direction of trains by moving points.
oversee operational safety on trains
Oversee all operations in a defined area, as part of a team that manages operational safety and train services for a specific geographical location.
process data from railway control rooms
Interpret data generated in control rooms in railway stations. Utilise gathered information to identify faults in mechanical equipment, schedule changes, and identify delays and incidents that may occur; provide solutions in the event of incidents and mitigate the impact on operations.
digital
provide information on train routes
Know principal train routes and quickly search for relevant information to respond to customer questions. Provide advice on potential shortcuts and itinerary options.
test railway signalling equipment
Test signalling equipment (signal lights and communication devices) utilised in railways and train yards, such as train instrument panel lights, the lights along each track, flashing red signal lights, and/or the alarms at each crossing.
write signalling reports
Write accurate communications and reports about signalling operations and safety procedures. Perform record keeping and event recording.
Cross-sector
4 competenceshandle stressful situations in the work place
Deal with and manage highly stressful situations in the workplace by following adequate procedures, communicating in a quiet and effective manner, and remaining level-headed when taking decisions.
mark differences in colours
Identify differences between colours, such as shades of colour.
react calmly in stressful situations
React quickly, calmly, and safely to unexpected situations; provide a solution that solves the problem or diminishes its impact.
use different communication channels
Make use of various types of communication channels such as verbal, handwritten, digital and telephonic communication with the purpose of constructing and sharing ideas or information.
Optional knowledge 1 competence
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
1 competencetrain planning
Thoroughly understand the techniques, procedures, and tools used to compose a train timetable; know various types of train plans; identify possible constraints to be considered in planning activities.
Cross-sector
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Optional skills and competences 3 competences
Occupation specific
1 competencedetermine train operational safety actions
Decide on train operational safety actions after having received information on the facts of a situation. Analyse the information, make sound judgements, create feasible scenarios using logic; take the best possible decision within given situation.
Sector-specific
2 competencescheck for defects in railcars
Ensure that freight cars are free of all safety defects that could lead to derailing or loss of freight while in transit. Ensure that freight cars meet transportation requirements.
monitor train schedules
Ensure train schedules are followed by monitoring and regulating train dispatch and arrival, in order to avoid schedule mismatches.
Cross-sector
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.