Swiss railway signalling

Signalling is governed by strict rules, released by the Federal Office of Transport.

The rules for railway operation are laid out in the Swiss Rail Service Regulations (Fahrdienstvorschriften (in German), Prescriptions de circulation des trains (PCT) (in French), Prescrizioni sulla circolazione dei treni (PCT) (in Italian)), of which the latest version was issued in 2012, valid since 1 July 2012[1] and are based on article 11a of the Ordinance of 23 November 1983 on the Construction and Operation of the Railways (Railways Ordinance, RailO).

Signals are always placed on the left except on tracks normally operated in both directions or where visibility requires a different position.

; as soon as the train has passed the last points in deviated position it can accelerate to the operating speed.

A signal presenting the 'stop' aspect cannot be passed under any circumstances without a formal order from the train controller.

Once this order has been received, the driver can proceed at a speed slow enough that they may stop short of any obstruction de 40 km/h.

Thus the green aspect means 'track clear' and if a digit is displayed, with a speed restriction.

The yellow aspect still means a warning or a speed restriction if a digit is displayed and a red aspect remains an absolute stop signal, only to be passed with a formal order or with safety equipment deployed.

In any case speed must be compatible with visibility, local conditions and braking power.

Shunting signals are older technology and comprise fewer safety features.

They are set to allow the passage of trains as well as the standard light signals for mainline movements.

Whatever kind of signal is used, the permission to move is given to the guard in charge who will then himself authorize the movement to start.

There are many types of complementary light signals to be found on the Swiss Federal Railways network.

The train which has not received this order is free to depart.This system is rather slow, so complementary signals are used.

Signs are used to protect or indicate a fixed feature such as a speed limit or a level crossing.

There are a number of signs that are all designed to protect or to indicate a fixed feature such as a speed restriction or a level crossing.

However, the curves to be negotiated at low speed are indicated by signs and are only mentioned in the route instructions.

There are also round speed restriction signs, with orange or green circumference, which apply only to tilting trains.