Canadian Rail Operating Rules

Protection of Track Units and Track Work

NOTICE

Wherever the term RTC appears herein, it also applies to signalman.

801. OCS Clearance in Lieu of TOP

A clearance may be issued in lieu of TOP and the provisions of Rules 80(b), 82, 85, 302, 308.1, 311, 803(c) and 849 apply.

802. Speed

Unless otherwise authorized, track units must always be operated at track unit speed.

803. Track Unit and Track Work Authorization

Refer to Rules 805 to 813 for rules applicable within interlocking limits and non-interlocked railway crossings at grade and non-interlocked drawbridges.

  • (a) Track occupancy by a track unit is permitted as follows:
    Territory Rule or Authority
    OCS Rule 842, TOP or Clearance
    CTC Rule 842 or TOP
    Signalled Track Rule 842 or TOP
    Cautionary Limits Rule 94
    NMT Rule 841
    Rule 105(c) or where it is not applicable, it must be known that there is no conflicting movement(s).
    TOP when SCT is applicable or specified by special instructions.
    Other forms of protection when specified by special instructions.
    On tracks where kicking is permitted per Rule 113.5(a), track must be protected by Rule 841(c)(i) or (iii).
  • (b) Track work is permitted as follows:
    Territory Rule or Authority
    OCS Rules 842, TOP or Clearance
    CTC Rules 842 or TOP
    Signalled Track Rules 842 or TOP
    Cautionary Limits Rules 841, Rule 842 or TOP
    NMT Rule 841
    TOP when SCT is applicable or specified by special instructions.
    Other forms of protection when specified by special instructions.
    On tracks where kicking is permitted per Rule 113.5(a), track must be protected by Rule 841(c)(i) or (iii).
  • (c) When no longer required, the foreman must promptly cancel or remove the protection and advise any person responsible for the track.
  • (d) Prior to the removal, cancellation or expiration of protection, or providing instructions to a movement; the foreman must ensure, unless otherwise protected:
    • (i) the track is safe for movements at normal speed; and
    • (ii) employees or track units for which the foreman is responsible are clear of the track.