Q What precautions can be taken to make sure there
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is enough time to get abnormal loads across railway level crossings which have automatic haff barriers?
AOperators normally will have been in
formed about crossings in their locality, but now that there are more on main as well as secondary roads drivers may come across them away from home.
This is the procedure: Approaching trains operate warning devices—red flashing traffic lights and ringing bells—and after eight seconds each half barrier automatically descends to bar the left side of the roadway in each direction. The warnings continue until the barriers are raised and the roadway is clear.
In an emergency, or when abnormal loads, animals, or heavy vehicles wish to cross the line, a direct telephone link to the nearest signal box enables the signalman to be contacted to ensure there is time to cross before the next train.
Illustrated leaflets, describing the operation of this new type of barrier are available from British Railways.