As a career railroader, this book truly gives the basic foundation for being a safe trainman. Safe work practices can never be over-emphasized.
This updated book is a reference for new employees to learn the basics of being a Brakeman or Switchman quickly. Updated as of 2008, with input from the BNSF Railway, this book reflects modern safety practices.
Outlined are the basic responsibilities of brakemen and switchmen by keeping safety in the forefront of their duties. It is an excellent training guide for new employees.
Contents:Introduction (general responsibilities, apparel, awareness), pp. 3-11,Railroad Engines and Cars (diagrams of components, car types), pp. 12-20,Communications (radio, hand/lantern, fusees, whistle/horn signals), pp. 21-28,Getting On and Off Equipment, pp. 29-36,Track Switches (components, lining, derails), pp. 37-46,Coupling and Uncoupling Equipment, pp. 47-53,Air Hoses, pp. 54-61,Air Brakes and Hand Brakes, pp. 62-72,Additional Information (more safety information), pp. 73-82.
Simmons-Boardman, 82 pages, spiral bound, 8.5 x 4.5 in. format, many diagrams supplemented by text.