Railway signals in Switzerland

The railway signals in Switzerland are the railway signals stipulated in the national regulations governing train services that are to be used by the infrastructure manager to regulate train traffic. There are two types of signals: on the one hand, those that allow speeds of up to 160 km / h; on the other hand, those that allow speeds of over 160 km / h. The latter is the cab signaling (CAB signaling).

Legal and regulations

The signaling is prescribed by the Federal Office of Transport for all railways in Switzerland. The rules for rail operations are laid down in the “Swiss Driving Regulations (FDV)”. These are revised every four years. The currently valid version came into force on July 1, 2016. A new version is expected to be released on July 1, 2020. Since 2010, all “wrongdoing against signals in rail traffic” has been recorded by the federal government.

Mechanical signals

As in other countries, rail traffic in Switzerland used to be regulated by mechanical signals . Different types of construction were used.

Light signals

Example of an L-type light signal

The Swiss signals are currently assigned to two types. They can be recognized by their different shapes: type L for light and type N for digital display (numérique). Type L signals have been in use since the 1940s and replaced the M type signals . The type N was introduced in 1986.

Application example of a speed limit indicated by an exit signal with driving term 2. The train must pass the points in a distracting position at 40 km / h and can only then accelerate to the speed specified in the route table.

With both types of signals there is an advance signal that announces the position of the following main signal to the engine driver and allows him to bring the train to a standstill until the main signal, even in poor visibility. The signals are controlled by interlocking systems that are designed or programmed in such a way that operations can be carried out safely. In particular, the signals are dependent on the position of the switches and the route block .

Advance signal screens (type L) are always square while the main signal screens (type L) are usually upright rectangular. In cases where a square signal screen has both distant and main signal functions, this is made clear by an attached white board with a black dot. With type N, the distant signal can be recognized by the square white frame, while the main signal has a white ring.

Generally, the signals are set up on the left side of the route in both directions. However, if there is a lack of clarity, the signals can be set up in a different position.

The signals of types N and L apply to train journeys, but not to shunting journeys. There are special shunting signals for shunting traffic. In addition, there are the dwarf signals that apply to both shunting and train journeys.

When replacing signal boxes, type N signals are often installed in the standard gauge network, replacing those of type L, because the former allow more functions and thus increase capacities.

A signal that shows "Stop" must not be passed under any circumstances if there is no permission ( command ) from the dispatcher. The corresponding command is either sent in writing (given directly to the train driver at a train station) - or by train radio and must then be logged. With train radio, the driver has to repeat the command word for word (acknowledge) and enter it in a form or write it down verbatim. When the command to drive past the stop signal has been completely transmitted, the train may be driven past the corresponding signal at a maximum of 40 km / h and travel on sight.

The commands displayed by a signal are controlled by the train protection . Systems used in Switzerland are ETCS Level 1 LS (still to be phased out Integra-Signum and ZUB 121 ) for standard gauge, on narrow gauge networks increasingly ZSI-127 or the older ZST-90 , ZSI-90 or ZSL-90 . With ETCS Level 2, external signals are no longer required, as all the necessary information is displayed to the driver in the driver's cab.

Signal type L

Type L signals are still more common than type N. Type L can show six different signal images (so-called driving terms) that can mean either “stop”, “drive” or “drive with restrictions”.

driving concept	meaning	meaning
1	Announcement of free travel. From the next signal, travel at the maximum speed specified in the route table applies . (The distant signal can also show two green lights next to each other)	Free ride. Travel at the maximum speed specified in the route table.
2	Speed announcement 40 km / h From the next signal or the associated points, the speed of max. 40 km / h. Low speeds are listed in the route table. Lower speeds may apply to narrow-gauge railways.	Speed version 40 km / h From this signal or the associated points, the speed of max. 40 km / h. Lower speeds are listed in the route table. Lower speeds may apply to narrow-gauge railways.
3	Speed announcement 60 km / h From the next signal or the associated points, the speed of max. 60 km / h. Higher speeds are listed in the route table. Lower speeds may apply to narrow-gauge railways.	Speed version 60 km / h From this signal or the associated points, the speed of max. 60 km / h. Higher speeds are listed in the route table. Lower speeds may apply to narrow-gauge railways.
5	Speed announcement 90 km / h. From the next signal or the associated turnouts, the speed of max. 90 km / h. Lower speeds may apply to narrow-gauge railways.	Speed version 90 km / h From this signal or the associated points, the speed of max. 90 km / h. Lower speeds may apply to narrow-gauge railways.
6th	Announcement of a speed limit of 40 km / h	Short journey From this signal or the associated points, the speed of max. 40 km / h. Lower speeds may apply to narrow-gauge railways. The next signal shows "Halt". The signal can be followed by a blocking signal or a track closure with a red light. The next signal is at a shorter distance.
-	Announcement of a speed limit of 40 km / h	Occupied signal An obstacle ( e.g. a train in front of you ) is to be expected on the following track section. If the signal is illuminated, the signal shows either "Speed version 40 km / h" or "Short drive". Most of the time, the SBB trades with the signal aspect 6 - short journey. The busy signal is also switched on for signal aspect 6, otherwise the train driver would expect a free track. Driving on sight from the braking distance applies. For some railways, a lower speed can apply from the entry point. A distant signal attached to the same mast is switched to dark.
-	Warning The next main signal indicates halt. The speed must be reduced.	Stop Stop before the signal. Normally the main signal is preceded by a "warning" signal, except: The preceding signal can indicate “short trip”. A notice board has been set up to announce an entry signal without a distant signal.

In the case of combined signals of type L, the driving concept of the distant signal “Expect to drive” is not displayed, but is implied by the driving concept “Driving”. If two consecutive signals indicate a speed restriction, the first signal must indicate it. The second signal does not have to show this explicitly.

The original meaning of some driving terms was different:

FB1-FB3: unchanged
FB4: no longer used (previously: driving into the further distraction - normal radius - 40 km / h) (signal image: green-green-yellow)
FB5: 90 km / h (previously: driving into the further distraction - large radius - 60 km / h)

With "drive into the further diversion" it is meant that the first switch in the route is in a straight position and the switch on the branch only in the further course.

Type N signals

The type N signals are gradually replacing those of the type L on the standard gauge network, especially on the SBB and BLS network infrastructures .

The type N signal system is designed in such a way that each signal can act as a distant signal. There is only one light left, which can be either red, orange or green. As with type L, red means stop. Orange stands for an announcement of a speed reduction (distant signal function), and green means that the displayed speed applies from the signal (main signal function). The speed is displayed in 10 km / h steps, i.e. 4 means 40 km / h. If no speed is displayed, the respective maximum speed applies.

An orange light together with the number 8 means that the speed is limited to 80 km / h from the next signal. If the orange lamp lights up without additional information, this means that the next signal is on hold.

However, since type N only has distant signals, distant signals and main signals must also be distinguishable here. Different frames are used for this. Pure distant signals have a rectangular frame, while main signals have a round frame. The distinction is important for the train driver, because a dark main signal means stop, a dark distant signal, on the other hand, can be passed like an orange signal.

-
Distant signal	meaning	meaning
or	Free travel The next signal shows "Free travel", "Speed announcement" or "(Pre) warning".	Free travel Travel at the maximum speed specified in the route table.
or	Speed announcement The next signal shows "speed execution".	Speed version From this signal onwards, the speed indicated by the number × 10 applies in km / h
or	Short trip announcement The next signal indicates the term "short trip".	Short drive From this signal, the maximum speed is 40 km / h. If a lower speed is listed in the route table, this is valid. The next signal is at a shorter distance and shows stop. A track closure with a red light or a blocking signal can follow. The orange bar flashes with this signal aspect.
or	Occupied track announcement The next signal indicates the term "occupied track".	Occupied track An obstacle is to be expected on the following track section. If the busy signal is illuminated, the preceding signal shows "speed announcement" or "speed execution". The associated signal shows "Warning".
No signal image	No announcement can be signaled.	Advance warning of reduction in speed so that you can stop before the next but one signal. From the next signal, the braking distance for the maximum permissible speed is not guaranteed. The next signal shows "Warning".
or	Warning The next signal shows "Halt".	Stop stop before the signal. The signal is preceded by a “warning” signal. Exception: The preceding signal can show "short drive" or is a notice board to announce an entrance signal without a distant signal.

Shunting signals

In Switzerland, shunting trips can be controlled either by shunting signals or by dwarf signals. The maximum speed when maneuvering is basically 30 km / h, in special cases 40 km / h. The speed must be adapted to the visibility, the local conditions and the available braking equipment. Shunting and dwarf signals are usually not covered by the train protection; There are exceptions for the narrow-gauge lines.

Dwarf signals are used where a signal box can secure a shunting route. This means that no points can be set until the shunting run has been completed. Shunting signals are based on older technology and offer fewer safety functions. They control the maneuvering movements and are not equipped with locks. The train driver or shunting manager must therefore check the route himself.

Shunting signals can secure several set points within a zone.

Signal aspect	meaning
	Consent to shunting movement : start or continuation of the shunting movement.
	Stop for shunting movement : Stop for shunting movements in front of the signal. If the signal applies to several tracks, the stopping point is at the safety sign for the relevant switch.

The points are set manually on systems without an interlocking. Hand signals, acoustic signals or the train radio are used for shunting orders.

Dwarf signals

The name dwarf signal is derived from the type of construction: they are always placed close to the ground, only rarely raised. Dwarf signals are primarily associated with shunting trips because they are used to give consent to a shunting trip. However, they do not belong to the shunting signals because they are also binding for train journeys. They are always set up in such a way that a danger point is not exceeded if you stop in front of them. So they offer protection for your own journey as well as against enemy routes. Dwarf signals are usually placed on the left side of the track and only apply to this track. Turnouts in zones with dwarf signals do not have turnout signals.

Dwarf signals have 3 signal aspects:

Signal display	meaning
	Stop : Stop before the signal.
	Drive with caution : start or continue driving. An obstacle must be expected immediately after the dwarf signal. The next dwarf signal shows “Stop”, “Drive with caution” or no further dwarf signal follows.
	Journey : start or continuation of the journey. The next dwarf signal shows the term “drive” or “drive with caution”.

Additional signals for group signals

Examples of additional signals for group signals, on the left the track number, on the right the group signal stop panels with driving information panels.

A group signal is a main signal that applies to several tracks in a station. However, you may only ever allow a single train journey, which is why additional signals must be used to indicate which track the position of the signal applies to:

A track number signal indicates the track on which the approval for travel applies.
A glowing arrow pointing to the right or left indicates one of two tracks to which permission to travel is valid.
The dwarf signal at the end of the track in question shows that it is moving.
A travel position indicator shows that the term applies to the next signal for the relevant track.
A driving term board indicates for each track the driving term for which the signal applies to the relevant track.

Auxiliary signals


Auxiliary signal L system	Auxiliary signal N system

Auxiliary signals are used when a signal has to be passed that indicates "Halt" or is disturbed. This avoids delays caused by the transmission of written commands. The auxiliary signal thus replaces the command that requires a protocol. The engine driver is allowed to drive past the signal without communication. He has to drive “on sight”.

With the signal type L, an orange diagonal line is switched on from the bottom left to the top right, which is located below the main and distant signal (if available). With signal type N, the red lamp flashes when the auxiliary signal is switched on. In the meantime it has been decided that the auxiliary signal should be standardized for both signal types and thereby simplified. This is why with the signal type L, especially with new installations, it can happen that no orange diagonal bar serves as an auxiliary signal, but the red flashing lamp.

Level crossing signal / control light

So that the train driver knows where a level crossing is, this is indicated to him by the level crossing signal. The control light shows him whether the level crossing system is switched on and any existing barriers are closed. The level crossing signal can be preceded by a distant signal that is triangular and has three black dots in the shape of an A on a white background.

The control light itself consists of a square shape on which there is an orange or white lamp on a black background. There is a white frame around the black ground. The signal is usually on a black and white mast, which can be omitted.

Announcement of a level crossing signal
Level crossing system is closed
Level crossing system is open

If several level crossing systems are to be monitored one after the other, the level crossing signal can be equipped with an additional board on which the number of level crossings is noted.

If the level crossing with the control light is disturbed, the train driver is allowed to cross the level crossing at walking pace and has to give a warning whistle. If a main signal is installed in front of the level crossing, the train driver is allowed to pass the signal and the level crossing when the auxiliary signal lights up, which gives permission to drive on the disturbed level crossing. The train driver has to drive "on sight". He has to drive at walking pace and give a warning whistle . He may only accelerate again when the first part of the train has passed the level crossing.

Slow speed signal

Slow motion signals are used when, for example, the speed has to be reduced because of a construction site. A speed limit is indicated by the advance notice signal. The specified number × 10 indicates the maximum permissible speed from the start signal. The pre-announcement signal has 2 orange lanterns that flash at night.

The start of the speed limit is indicated by the start signal. From this signal onwards, the announced speed from the advance notice signal applies. The signal can be followed by another pre-signal or the end signal. The start signal consists of a rectangular orange board with a diagonal white line. Under the board there is an orange lamp that flashes at night.

The end of the speed limit is indicated by the end signal. The reduced speed applies until the last vehicle has passed the end signal. The end signal consists of a rectangular green sign with a white arrow that looks like an upside-down "V". Under the board there is a green lamp that flashes at night.

Announcement signal
Start signal
End signal
Cancellation signal

If there are turnouts to be traveled between the initial and start signals of a slow speed point towards the tip and the reduction only applies to some of the possible routes, the reduction is canceled with a cancellation signal.

If several different slow speed points are signaled one after the other on a track, the following must be observed with the distant signal, which indicates a higher speed:

The distant signal is the end signal for the preceding slow speed point, which has a lower speed,
The distant signal only has an orange flashing lamp and applies from the start signal to the second slow-speed zone, which is to be driven through at higher speed and
this distant signal has no train protection.

If the normal stopping point of the trains in stations and stops is after the pre- or start signal and the start or end signal is not visible from the normal stop position, a repeat signal is set up. The following are repeated signals:

a second distant signal that has no train protection when it is in front of the speed limit stop, or
a second start signal, if this is in the area of the speed limit stop, is used.

If the speed limit only applies to certain tracks, this is indicated by an additional board. This is attached above the signal.

Signal signs

Signal signs are used for protection or to indicate a fixed identification, such as speed limits or a level crossing .

There are a number of signal signs that can protect or indicate a permanent identification. The signs can be used for both train and shunting traffic. Most of the time, the signal signs are placed on the left side of the route.

Speed limit

In Switzerland, the speed limits for a section of the route are specified in a document (so-called RADN ) which informs the train driver of the speeds of the route used. If there are curves with a low speed limit, this is indicated by signposts and only mentioned in the route instructions. The signs for these speed restrictions are called "speed boards for track sections with reduced speed". There is usually a sign that shows the current speed and the next speed limit. The beginning of the speed limit is indicated by a sign (with a black diagonal line on a white background). The signs are not set up within the first and last points of a train station. The end of the speed limit stop is marked by a signal that has two black vertical lines on a white background. If the distant signal bears two speed specifications, the upper (lower) speed applies to trains in the lower row of trains and for shunting movements and the lower (higher) speed applies to trains in the higher row.

In our example, trains in the lower row of trains, as well as shunting trips, may travel at a maximum of 100 km / h, the higher train row may travel at a maximum of 110 km / h.

There are other signs, here is a small selection:

sign	meaning
	Pipes! The engine driver has to give a warning whistle. If the whistle is only allowed to take place at a certain time, this is indicated by an additional sign.
	Switch-off signal The engine driver must drive past with the main switch switched off.
	Switch-on signal After passing the sign, the train driver may drive with the main switch switched on again.