NTR 408 Using whistles

Purpose

To prescribe the rules for using whistles in the Network.

Sounding whistles

The whistles of rail traffic must be used to:

• give audible warning or alarm, and
• acknowledge handsignals.

Whistles must be sounded:

• if rail traffic explodes railway track signals on the line, and
• as necessary for safety.

Unless otherwise instructed by signs, whistles must be sounded during approach to:

• level crossings
• shunting movements on adjacent tracks
• crossing or passing movements at sidings and loops
• people or animals on or near the track
• WHISTLE signs
• tunnel entrances and exits.

Whistle codes

If other warning methods are not available, Drivers and Track Vehicle Operators are to sound the following whistle codes.

Code	Meaning
	When sounded continuously, stop immediately
	Rail traffic is about to be propelled

Defective whistles

If all whistles on the leading end of the leading vehicle become defective during travel, the Train Crew or Track Vehicle Crew must:

• tell the Signaller, and
• if possible, remedy the defect.

Rail traffic with defective whistles that cannot be remedied may continue to travel only as far as the first suitable location for repair or replacement of the whistle.

If the whistle cannot be repaired or replaced, the leading vehicle must be:

• re-marshalled at the first suitable location, or
• promptly worked out of service.

Rail traffic without a working whistle must travel at restricted speed until:

• the whistle is repaired or replaced, or
• the leading vehicle is re‑marshalled.

Using headlights instead of whistles

If the whistle has failed, a Driver or Track Vehicle Operator must flash the headlight of the leading vehicle to give visible warning during approach to:

• level crossings
• people or animals on or near the track
• other potentially hazardous conditions.

Responding to headlight and whistle failure

Rail traffic with neither a working headlight nor a working whistle must travel at restricted speed, and not exceed 25km/h:

• in conditions of low visibility
• over level crossings
• through tunnels and cuttings
• past platforms.

If a level crossing is not fitted with Type F warning equipment, the Train Crew or Track Vehicle Crew of a leading vehicle with neither a working headlight nor a working whistle must:

• be prepared to stop rail traffic short of the crossing, and
• travel over the crossing only if it is clear, and if road and pedestrian traffic has been stopped.