Rule 104 — Hand Operated Switches

1. (a)Operation of Switches - semi-automatic, spring, dual control or auto-normal switches operated by hand are considered hand operated switches, and all rules governing hand operated switches apply.
2. (b)Except while being turned, each switch must be secured with an approved device. When a switch has been turned, the points must be examined and the target, reflector or light, if any, observed to ensure that the switch is properly lined for the route to be used.
3. (c)A switch must not be turned while any part of a car or engine is between the switch points and the fouling point of the track to be used, except when making a running switch or in the application of the exception to Rule 114.
4. (d)Handling of main track hand operated switches by other than a crew member. When arrangements are made for an employee to take charge of a switch(es), the movement must receive verbal confirmation that the switch has been restored to normal position. Verbal advice of switch position may be provided to a movement by an employee. The approaching movement must not act on such information unless advised that the employee is at the switch and will remain in charge of the switch.
5. (e)If it is known or suspected that either of the points or any part of a switch is damaged or broken, the switch must be protected until it can be made safe for use. A report must be made to the RTC or employee responsible for the territory by the quickest available means.
6. (i)A main track hand operated switch must display a reflectorized target, or light and target except in CTC or on a subdivision specified in special instructions.
7. (ii)At an electrically locked hand operated switch, instructions posted at the switch or in special instructions, will govern the operation of the switch and entry to the main track or interlocking route.
8. (h)Unless otherwise specified by special instructions, the normal position for a main track switch is for the main track route. Except as provided in paragraph (i), main track switches must be left lined and locked in normal position.
9. (j)Except when switching, when a movement is closely approaching or passing over a main track switch, other than a dual control switch, employees must keep at least 20 feet from the switch stand, and must, when practicable, on single track, stand on the opposite side of the track.
10. (k)On single track, a crew member of a movement stopped on the main track to meet or to be passed by another movement, will, when practicable, reverse the switch for the approaching movement and protect it unless relieved by a crew member of the other movement.
11. (l)Unless otherwise directed by special instructions, the normal position for a main track junction switch is when set for through movement on one subdivision.
12. (m)When a movement diverges from a main track, the switch used must not be restored to normal position until the fouling point has been cleared.
13. (n)The switches at both ends of a crossover are normal when set for a through movement on the other tracks. When a crossover is to be used, the switch in the track on which the movement is standing must be reversed first. Both switches must be reversed before crossing over. Before either switch is restored to normal position the movement must be clear of the crossover.
14. (q)The employee handling a main track hand operated switch in non-signalled territory must, from the location of the switch, communicate with another employee to confirm the position in which the switch has been left, lined and locked. The employee receiving this report must repeat it back to the employee who handled the switch. Communication may be achieved by personal contact, radio or telephone. A lone employee unable to communicate with any employee other than the RTC , must communicate with the RTC . This rule also applies where ABS signals do not govern movements in both directions.

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