On 3rd March we had a visit to Network Rail's signalling simulator at Perth. The simulator is an exact replica of a traditional lever frame with block instruments and all the interlocking to be found in a real signalbox. The visit gave some students a great opportunity for hands on signalling and was a good test of their knowledge of traditional signalling methods. The breadth of knowledge and experience among our group meant that we all learned something about how to signal trains with bells and block instruments.
The visit was arranged with the help of Colin Wier, Network Rail Local Operations Manager at Perth. Colin explained how the simulator was used to help signallers retain knowledge of situations they maybe didn't see very often in their day to day work but could safely work through on the simulator. Colin set up a number of different scenarios for us to try.
We would like to thank Colin for giving up his time for what was a very interesting evening for us all.
