Level crossing signalperson

Level crossing signalpersons operate equipment in the safeguarding of level crossings, according to safety regulations. They supervise the traffic situation around the level crossing, and communicate with traffic controllers, drivers, and other signalpeople when necessary. 

The following job titles also refer to level crossing signalperson:

level crossing attendant
level crossing signalwoman
level crossing signaller
level crossing signalman

A high school diploma is generally the minimum required to work as a level crossing signalperson.

ISCO skill level is defined as a function of the complexity and range of tasks and duties to be performed in an occupation. It is measured on a scale from 1 to 4, with 1 the lowest level and 4 the highest, by considering:

• the nature of the work performed in an occupation in relation to the characteristic tasks and duties
• the level of formal education required for competent performance of the tasks and duties involved and
• the amount of informal on-the-job training and/or previous experience in a related occupation required for competent performance of these tasks and duties.

Level crossing signalperson is a Skill level 2 occupation.

These occupations, although different, require a lot of knowledge and skills similar to level crossing signalperson.

rail switchperson
automated cable vehicle controller
rail traffic controller
railway electronic technician
shunter

These occupations require some skills and knowledge of level crossing signalperson. They also require other skills and knowledge, but at a higher ISCO skill level, meaning these occupations are accessible from a position of level crossing signalperson with a significant experience and/or extensive training.

rolling stock inspector
air traffic controller
flight operations officer
aviation safety officer
performance rental technician

This knowledge should be acquired through learning to fulfill the role of level crossing signalperson.

• 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.
• Signal box parts: Know and understand 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.
• Railway framework legislation: Know and apply railway framework legislation where requirements for railways in the EU are established. Know legislation that applies to the field of cross-border freight transit.
• Level crossing regulations: Know and understand regulations and legal procedures applicable to level crossings. Ensure regulations relating to safety are complied with at all times.

These skills are necessary for the role of level crossing signalperson.

• Cooperate with colleagues: Cooperate with colleagues in order to ensure that operations run effectively.
• Communicate verbal instructions: Communicate transparent instructions. Ensure that messages are understood and followed correctly.
• Read railway circuit plans: Read and comprehend circuit plans during initial construction, during troubleshooting, maintenance, and testing activities and while repairing or replacing components.
• Operate railway lever frames: Operate mechanical lever frames housed in signal boxes. Understand different applications of levers such as interlocking or signal receiving; read and comprehend the track diagram and signalling layout mounted above the lever frame. Operate hand-powered interlockings, power frames, mechanical, pneumatic or electric levers.
• Operate railway warning systems: Operate and maintain grade crossing warning systems, signals and railroad signal equipment such as hot box detectors and interlocks.
• Stay alert: Stay focused and alert at all times; react quickly in the case of unexpected events. Concentrate and do not get distracted performing a task over a long period of time.
• Apply signalling control procedures: Control train movements; operate railway signals and block systems to ensure that trains operate safely, on correct routes, and on time.
• Ensure compliance with railway regulation: Ensure compliance with all railway rules, procedures, and legal regulations relating to safety, operations, and EU frameworks.
• Enforce railway safety regulations: Promote and enforce safety procedures and EU regulations to ensure that railway safety is generally maintained and continuously improved, taking into consideration the development of European legislation.
• 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.
• Follow signalling instructions: Follow signalling instructions throughout the journey. Comprehend the technical language used by signallers and adhere to instructions given by them.
• Follow strict level crossing operating procedures: Follow strict procedures for the operation of level crossings such as operating the lights, alarms, and signal devices to prevent accidents. Operate equipment that lift and descend barriers. Stay vigilant during headways.
• Operate railway switches: Operate railroad switches to control the direction of trains in order to route them to their destinations.
• Follow given instructions: Follow instructions to achieve goals and meet deadlines.
• Compile railway signalling reports: Compile reports in the field of railway signalling; reports may include information on section of track inspected, repairs executed or tests performed, and the pieces of equipment that require repair or replacement.
• Operate barriers at level crossings: Operate gates and barriers at level crossings according to messages and indications provided by signal boxes. Follow procedures to lift or descend bars and gates in order to alert traffic and pedestrians, ensuring that there are no dangers on site.
• Plan railway incident mitigation measures: Plan, anticipate, and develop mitigation measures to respond to rail incidents, unexpected situations, and emergencies.
• Operate railway control panels: Operate various types of railway control panels such as Individual Function Switch (IFS), One Control Switch (OCS) or Entrance Exit (NX).
• 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.
• 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.

These skills and competences are sometimes, but not always, required for the role of level crossing signalperson. However, mastering these skills and competences allows you to have more opportunities for career development.

• Carry out railway accident investigations: Carry out investigations of railway accidents. Take into consideration the specific circumstances of the accident, and the actual or potential consequences. Investigate whether the accident is part of a series, and examine the potential for recurrence. Strive to improve safety.
• Maintain railway signal equipment: Test, operate, and maintain railway signalling equipment such as power switches and grade crossing warning devices.
• Liaise with railway stakeholders in relation to accident investigations: Keep in contact with industry stakeholders involved with the accident or incident under investigation. Update parties on any findings.

8312 – Railway brake, signal and switch operators

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References

1. Level crossing signalperson – ESCO