Railway Training Days
On the 23rd May this year the Great Cockcrow Railway (GCR) played host to the Institution of Railway Operators (IRO) who used our facility for the purpose of training both their 'Degree' and 'Diploma' students in a safe and authentic railway operating environment. The initial idea to use the GCR stemmed from earlier visits by senior members of the IRO who realised the potential of the site and the ability to create various accident/incident scenarios for the students to investigate Many thanks to Colin Charman for providing the photos.
Some role play was required by members of the GCR and scripts were provided that set the scene, in particular at 'Lester's Crossing', where the movement of an engineer's train had resulted in a fatality. The key players in this incident were the PICOP, Engineering Supervisor and the Driver of the engineer’s train. Students were required to examine the site for any signs of evidence and then to interview all those involved. Interestingly, different conclusions and apportioning of responsibility were reached, and showed the value of such opportunities for developing skills in a realistic railway environment.				Investigating the scene.
LMS Jackshaft diesel with the railway’s tank wagons	Another incident involved derailed tank vehicles in the yard at Everglades Junction during a shunting movement. The labels attached to the tanks clearly identified the hazardous contents and the students involved had to determine the course of action required to ensure the safety of those in the immediate vicinity. .
Two different “Signal Passed at Danger” (SPAD) incidents required the students to interview the Driver involved and decide upon the course of action required. In one instance the Driver was removed from the locomotive and replaced, and in another the Driver was allowed to continue. This again showed how different situations need different actions			Driver of Black Five number 5000 “Sister Dora” gets interviewed by the students
A full signalling schematic is available at http://www.cockcrow.co.uk/layout010503.htm		Visits to the three signal-boxes allowed the students to have hands-on experience of a fully operational, interlocked box. Where else could one go in this day and age today and gain such experience?
In the afternoon 'Single line working over a Double road' was set up between Phillip's Bridge Junction and Hardwick Central. Using a designated 'Pilotman', plus all the required paper work, it demonstrated how movements over a temporary single line are controlled safely under such conditions, perhaps virtually impossible to replicate in full size today. It really was an interesting day for everyone involved and we look forward in the future to provide more accident/incident scenarios. Please contact training@cockcrow.co.uk for more information