Physical characteristics of railways

Familiar with all physical aspects of the railway, including train stations, the incline and decline of the right-of-way and speed limits.

material conditions of railways
physical characteristics of railroads
physical aspects of railroads
material features of railways
material characteristics of railways
material conditions of railroads
physical features of railways
physical features of railroads
physical aspects of railways
material features of railroads

knowledge

sector-specific

Physical characteristics of railways is an essential knowledge of the following occupations:

Shunter: Shunters move shunting units with or without wagons or groups of wagons in order to build trains. They manage the driving of locomotives and are involved in switching wagons, making or splitting up trains in shunting yards or sidings. They operate according to the technical features, such as controlling movement via a remote control device.
Occupational railway instructor: Occupational railway instructors teach future occupational drivers of railway transportation, such as train, tram, metro and trolley drivers how to operate their railway vehicle according to regulations. They teach their students theory and techniques on how to optimally drive and maintain their specific railway vehicle, observe and evaluate the students’ practice. They also focus on non-driving related subjects such as customer service (in case of person transportation) and safety measure regulations.
Train driver: Train drivers operate trains providing passenger or cargo transport services. They are responsible for driving the locomotive in safe manner, respecting all relevant safety, operational and communication regulations, and have full responsibility for the safety of passengers and cargo. The task involves cooperation and communication with the relevant staff under the infrastructure manager, as well as with staff on board the train.
Rail operations manager: Rail operations managers are concerned with overseeing, designing, and controlling the processes of transport operation. Rail operation managers may work for rail operators concerning tasks such as managing the safe and efficient operation of transport services including customer relation tasks or the management of staff and work organisation in this field. Rail operation managers employed by infrastructure operators manage the efficient and safe use of the network. This includes the planning of timetables and the allocation of slots to customers. They plan the construction and maintenance work. 

Physical characteristics of railways is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this knowledge may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.

Rail logistics coordinator: Rail logistics coordinator manage shipments by rail including or excluding other transport modes. They coordinate the timely allocation of transport means and equipment and ensure a timely delivery. They design and maintain efficient supply chains for clients and shippers.
Railway infrastructure inspector: Railway infrastructure inspectors are responsible for checking the conditions of railways. They monitor compliance to health and safety standards and inspect the infrastructure to detect damage or flaws. They analyse and report on their findings to ensure railway conditions are maintained at a safe level.
Police officer: Police officers use investigation methods to prevent crime, to pursue and apprehend criminals, and protect the public from violent and criminal activities. They perform surveillance and patrol activities to prevent crimes and apprehend offenders. They provide support to victimised parties and the public at large, and fulfil administrative duties.
Vocational teacher: Vocational teachers instruct students in their specialised field of study, which is predominantly practical in nature. They provide theoretical instruction in service of the practical skills and techniques that the students must subsequently master in the specialised vocation of their choice and aid in the development of the according attitudes and values. Vocational teachers monitor the students progress, assist individually when necessary, and evaluate their knowledge and performance on the subject through assignments, tests and examinations.

References

1. Physical characteristics of railways – ESCO