ELIMINATE HUMAN FACTOR DERAILMENTS AT SWITCHES
Railroad switch targets in use today are old, corroded, damaged, ambiguous, or simply missing. Over 30% of all FRA reported train derailments are human factor incidents, the majority of these occur at switches.
Ambiguous targets lead to more confusion and increase the likelihood of run through switches and derailments. These derailments disrupt rail service, are costly to fix, and threaten operators lives.
Derailments attributed to HFI
A SWITCH INDICATOR THAT IS CLEAR, HIGHLY-VISIBLE, AND TALKS TO OPERATORS.
The Way Switch Indicator is a railroad switch target that corresponds to the switch points and tells operators which way a switch is lined. The patented double-arrow design points the same direction as the gap in the switch points, so operators have a double check of every switch they line.
The Way utilizes the power of 3M High Intensity Prismatic reflective sheeting with over 10x more reflective power than standard switch targets. The aluminum structure provides 10 years of guaranteed visibility in the toughest weather conditions.
The Way Switch Indicator reduces human factor incidents by changing behavior. They only way to confirm the direction of travel at switches is by “reading” the gap of the switch points. If the gap is on the left, the train will go left; and if the gap is on the right, the train will go right. Operators should 1) Look at the gap; 2) Point the direction of the gap; 3) Confirm that the arrow also points the same direction. This provides a 3 step process to confirm the direction of travel at every switch.
In railroad switching, the gap governs the direction of travel. The Way Switch Indicator is the only target that corresponds to the gap in the switch points, helping operators be aware of which side the gap is on and not line a switch incorrectly.
The Way Switch Indicator is made with a High Intensity Prismatic Reflective Vinyl by 3M. This provides over 10 times more reflective power than other switch targets. Reflective power increases visibility and promotes awareness to operators for day and night operations.
Using a variety of old worn out switch targets creates confusion and is useless for operators. By standardizing your yard and creating uniformity with The Way Switch Indicator your operators have consistent visual representation of the way tracks are lined which will reduce human factor derailments.
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Fully customize our Track Identification Markers with track numbers or names, clearance points, kick or pin zones, safety stops, or anything else operators need to know. We are able to add in your logo (specific customizations may be an additional charge). Track Markers can be single or double-sided and are available in five 3M High Intensity Prismatic reflective colors.
Give us a call to set up a quote and chat through custom options: (503) 683-7722 or email at info@pacrailsolutions.com
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Our Track Markers are Impact and Trip Safe. Made with a polyurethane hinge, they can bend 180 degrees and will self-correct to their upright position. Their unique form allows them to be flexible when struck or stepped on, but rigid enough to stay mounted to your ties for years of service.
Specs: available in 24" x 4.25" and 12" x 4.25" - mounting holes to screw base into wood ties, or use outdoor heavy duty adhesive to adhere to cement ties. Easy install. Screws included (4 per sign) / adhesive not included for concrete tie mounting.
Track Markers are also available in 3x8" and 3x4" options. Check out our web store for standard and customizable options.