Page:UK Traffic Signs Manual - Chapter 8 - Part 2- Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road Works and Temporary Situations) - Operations 2009.pdf/47

OPERATIONAL ISSUES *normal alternate one-way working should be resumed as the gates are opened or barriers lifted and, where provided, the road traffic signals extinguished; any vehicle held in the one-way section during passage of the train should be allowed to clear first; and
 * when the obstruction is on the left-hand side of the road approaching the crossing the "STOP/GO" sign assembly on the exit side should be sited at least 25 m beyond the crossing; this is to ensure that the crossing signals are not obscured and also to allow sufficient space for vehicles to return to the left-hand side of the road beyond the crossing.

At open level crossings, trains are required to approach at a slow speed. The approaches to open crossings on public roads are signed with "GIVE WAY" signs to diagram 602 and "open level crossing" plates to diagram 778. There is no telephone at open level crossings. If works have to be undertaken close to such a crossing "STOP/GO" signs are to be used. Care shall be taken to ensure that the "GIVE WAY" signs are not obscured by the works. The control signs should be operated in the following manner:
 * when there are no trains approaching, the level crossing is open to road traffic; the "STOP/GO" signs should be operated together to control traffic along the length of one-way working;
 * when the controlling operator sees a train approaching, he is to stop all road traffic ensuring that it is never stopped on the crossing;
 * care shall be taken to ensure that no ambiguous instructions are given to road traffic as drivers are still obliged to obey the permanent "GIVE WAY" signs; and
 * normal alternate one-way working may be resumed once the train has passed. Any vehicle held in the one-way section during passage of the train should be allowed to clear first.

At many level crossings, road traffic is controlled by permanent twin red flashing lights or traffic signals. Should these lights or signals fail, it is the usual practice for the railway authority to inform the police and appropriate procedures are taken to control road traffic.

Contingency plans shall be prepared in advance for specific crossings. Any procedures so agreed shall be stopped immediately the crossing is working correctly again.

If it is necessary to carry out emergency works, that is works which are required in order to put an end to, or prevent the occurrence of circumstances which are likely to cause danger to persons or property, the following actions are to be taken before works commence: 45
 * at an automatic half barrier level crossing or at most automatic open crossings there are emergency telephones; these telephones shall be used to inform the railway employee monitoring the crossing;
 * at manually operated or CCTV controlled level crossings the railway employee controlling the crossing is to be informed directly or by telephone as appropriate;
 * in either event, works shall not proceed until the railway authority advises it is safe to do so.