Lineside Signal Aspect and Indication Requirements

Uncontrolled When Printed
Document comes into force 07/03/2015

Supersedes parts of GKRT0045 Iss 3 as of 07/03/2015 - Please refer to Issue Record for more information
Superseded by RIS-0758-CCS Iss 1 with effect from 03/03/2018
Railway Group Standard
GK/RT0058
Issue One
Date December 2014
Lineside Signal Aspect

and Indication
Requirements
Synopsis
This document mandates the
appearance of lineside signalling system
displays and the information they
convey.
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Published by:
RSSB
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© Copyright 2014
Rail Safety and Standards Board Limited
GK/RT0058
Issue One Lineside Signal Aspect and
Date December 2014 Indication Requirements
Issue record
Issue Date Comments
One December 2014 Original document.
This standard is the result of an analysis of technical
compatibility between lineside signalling systems
and train operations. The requirements set out in
this standard are consistent with the development of
products that are capable of being interpretable,
which is a pre-requisite of obtaining an authorisation
for placing a new or modified lineside signalling
system into service.
Superseded documents
The following Railway Group Standard is superseded, either in whole or in part as
indicated:
Superseded documents Sections superseded Date when

sections are
superseded
GK/RT0045 issue three Lineside 2.1.1a; 2.1.1b; 2.1.2; 2.2.1.1; 07 March 2015
Signals, Indicators and Layout of 2.2.1.2a; 2.2.1.2b; 2.2.1.3a;
Signals 2.2.1.3b; 2.2.1.4a; 2.2.1.4b;
2.2.1.4c; 2.2.1.4d; 2.2.2.2;
2.2.4.7; 2.2.4.8; 2.2.5.3; 2.2.5.5;
2.2.5.6; 2.2.5.8a; 2.2.5.8b;
2.2.6.1; 2.2.6.5; 2.2.6.6; 2.2.6.9;
2.2.7.2; 2.2.7.5; 2.2.8.3; 2.2.8.5;
2.3.1.1; 2.3.1.5; 2.3.2.5; 2.3.3.2;
2.3.3.3; 2.4.1.2; 2.4.2.2; 2.4.3.2;
2.4.5.2; 2.4.6.5; 2.4.6.6; 2.4.7.3;
2.4.8.2; 2.4.8.7a; 2.4.8.7b;
2.5.1.1a; 2.5.1.1b; 2.5.2.1;
2.5.3.1a; 2.5.3.1b; 4.1.8; 7.1.1;
7.2.1; 7.3.1; 7.3.2
GK/RT0045 issue three Lineside Signals, Indicators and Layout of Signals, ceases to be in
force and is withdrawn as of 07 March 2015.
Supply
The authoritative version of this document is available at www.rgsonline.co.uk.
Uncontrolled copies of this document can be obtained from Communications, RSSB,
Block 2, Angel Square, 1 Torrens Street, London EC1V 1NY, telephone 020 3142 5400 or
e-mail enquirydesk@rssb.co.uk. Other Standards and associated documents can also be
viewed at www.rgsonline.co.uk.
Page 2 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
Lineside Signal Aspect and Issue One
Indication Requirements Date December 2014
Contents
Section Description Page
Part 1 Purpose and Introduction 5

1.1 Purpose 5
1.2 Introduction 5
1.3 Approval and authorisation of this document 5
Part 2 Requirements for Lineside Signal Aspect and Indication Requirements 6

2.1 Signal aspect and indication appearance 6
2.2 Signal aspect and indication combinations 7
2.3 Signal aspect and route indication combinations 8
2.4 Signal aspects and supplementary indication combinations 9
Part 3 Application of this document 10

3.1 Scope 10
3.2 Exclusions from scope 10
3.3 General compliance date 10
3.4 Exceptions to general compliance date 10
3.5 Health and safety responsibilities 11
Appendices
Appendix A Information Conveyed by Lineside Signals 12
Appendix B Information Conveyed by Route Indicators 27
Appendix C System Status Information Conveyed by Lineside Indicators 30
Appendix D Operational Information Conveyed by Lineside Indicators 33
Definitions 35
References 37
Tables
Table 1 Displays that convey signalling information 6
Table 2 Signal aspects that use display combinations 7
Table 3 Permitted signal aspect and route indication combinations 8
Table 4 Signal aspect and supplementary indication display combinations 9
Table A.1 Stop aspects 12
Table A.2 Shunting conditional stop aspects 13
Table A.3 Shunt aspects 13
Table A.4 Calling-on aspects 14
Table A.5 PoSA aspects 15
Table A.6 Cautionary aspects in 3-aspect TCB signalling areas 15
Table A.7 Preferred cautionary aspects in 4-aspect TCB signalling areas 16
Table A.8 Non-preferred cautionary aspects in 4-aspect TCB signalling areas 16
Table A.9 TCB unrestricted proceed-aspects 17
Table A.10 Distant signal aspects 18
Table A.11 Home signal and non-block stop signal OFF aspects 19
Table A.12 Section signal and intermediate block home signal OFF aspects 20
Table A.13 Junction approach flashing cautionary aspects 21
Table A.14 Junction approach splitting cautionary and unrestricted proceed-aspects 23
Table A.15 Banner repeater indications 23
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GK/RT0058
Table A.16 Splitting banner repeater indications 26

Table B.1 Junction indications 27
Table B.2 Preliminary junction indications 28
Table B.3 Alphanumeric route indications 29
Table C.1 Locally monitored infrastructure not operated indication 30
Table C.2 Facing points set indication 30
Table C.4 Locally monitored level crossing indications 31
Table C.4 TPWS indications 31
Table C.5 Mechanical trip-cock test indications 32
Table D.1 Train dispatch indications 33
Table D.2 Loading / unloading indications 34
Page 4 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
Part 1 Purpose and Introduction

1.1 Purpose
1.1.1 This document mandates requirements for lineside signal aspects and indications
and the information that they are used to convey.
1.2 Introduction
1.2.1 Background
1.2.1.1 Lineside signalling systems are provided by infrastructure managers to convey
the following types of information to authorised users involved with train
operations:
a) Movement authority information.
b) Routing information.
c) Permissible speed information.
d) Locally monitored infrastructure status information.
e) Operating instructions.
1.2.1.2 The information is conveyed in the form of signal aspects, route indications,
lineside operational signs and other signalling indications. Authorised users read
the information being conveyed on the basis of the appearance of what is being
displayed.
1.2.1.3 This document specifies the appearance and information conveyed by lineside
signal aspects and indications so that they are interpretable and therefore
compatible with the requirement that an authorised user should be able to
understand the information being conveyed.
1.2.1.4 The scope of this document does not include compatibility of lineside signal
aspects and indications with train driving processes when an in-cab signalling
system is in use.
1.2.2 Related requirements in other documents

1.2.2.1 The following Railway Group Standard contains requirements that are relevant to
the scope of this document:
GK/RT0070 Signalling Layout Design Requirements [in preparation, will

replace some parts of GK/RT0045]
GE/RT8102 Signalling Layout Driveability Assessment Requirements [in

preparation, will replace some parts of GK/RT0045]
1.2.3 Supporting documents

1.2.3.1 The following Rail Industry Guidance Note supports this Railway Group Standard:
GK/GN0658 Guidance on Lineside Signal Aspect and Indication

Requirements
1.3 Approval and authorisation of this document

1.3.1 The content of this document was approved by Control Command and Signalling
(CCS) Standards Committee on 16 October 2014.
1.3.2 This document was authorised by RSSB on 24 October 2014.
RSSB Page 5 of 37
GK/RT0058
Part 2 Requirements for Lineside Signal Aspect and

Indication Requirements
2.1 Signal aspect and indication appearance
2.1.1 Each lineside signal shall continuously present the relevant signal aspect, except
where the signal is configured with approach lighting functionality.
2.1.2 A signal shall be configured with approach lighting functionality only if both of the
following criteria apply:
a) The signal does not contribute to the overall readability of signals on other
lines.
And
b) The relevant signal aspect is readable whenever the signal is approached by

a train on the line to which it applies.
2.1.3 The interruption of signal aspects and indications that are not designed to flash
shall not exceed a single period of 250 mS in any one hour.
2.1.4 Signalling information shall be conveyed using only the signal aspects and
indications set out in Table 1.
Type of Clause or Table reference

information
Conveyed by
being Individual Display
conveyed displays combinations
Movement
Signal aspect Tables A.1 to A.14 2.2
authority (MA)
Repeat MA Banner repeater indication Table A.15 Not applicable
Junction indication Table B.1

Routing 2.3
Alphanumeric indication Table B.3
Repeat routing Preliminary junction indication Table B.2 Not applicable
Semaphore junction signal Tables A.9, A.11
2.2
OFF aspect and A.12
MA + routing
Flashing signal aspect Table A.13 Not applicable
Splitting distant signal aspect Not applicable Table A.14
Repeat MA + Splitting banner repeater
Not applicable Table A.16
routing indication
Locally Coloured light signalling

monitored indication Tables C.1 to C.5
system status Alphanumeric indication
2.4
Coloured light signalling
Operating indication Tables D.1 and
instruction D.2
Alphanumeric indication
Table 1 Displays that convey signalling information
Page 6 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
2.2 Signal aspect and indication combinations

2.2.1 Signal aspect combinations shall be presented only in accordance with Table 2.
Signal aspect type Display combination requirements

A position light signal aspect presented with a
Subsidiary position light signal OFF
colour light signal red aspect or stop board, as
aspects
set out in A.3, A.4 or A.5.
Splitting distant signal aspects Two colour light signal aspects presented
together, as set out in A.13.
Semaphore main stop and distant The distant arm shall:
signal arm combinations a) Be positioned below the associated main
stop arm and on the same signal post.
And
b) Be presented in the OFF position only
when the associated main stop arm is also
presented in the OFF position.
Semaphore main and subsidiary The calling-on (subsidiary) arm shall:
signal arm combinations a) Be mounted below the associated main
stop arm (and where provided, the
associated distant arm), and on the same
signal post.
And
b) Be presented in the OFF position only
when the associated main stop arm is in
the ON position.
Semaphore junction signal arm
As set out in 2.2.2 and 2.2.3.
combinations
Co-acting signal aspects Duplicated signal aspects.
Table 2 Signal aspects that use display combinations
2.2.2 Semaphore junction signals that convey routing information using stepped,
multiple stop arms shall meet the following principles:
a) A separate stop arm shall be provided for each route.
b) The relative horizontal position of each stop arm shall correspond with the
direction of the applicable diverging route relative to the other signalled
routes beyond the junction.
c) The uppermost stop arm shall apply to the route with the highest permissible
speed.
d) The relative vertical position of the other stop arms shall correspond with the
relative permissible speed on each diverging route.
2.2.3 Semaphore junction signals that convey routing information using stacked,
multiple stop arms or discs shall meet the following principles:
a) A separate stop arm or disc shall be provided for each route.
b) The uppermost stop arm or disc shall correspond with the most extreme left-
hand route.
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GK/RT0058
c) The relative vertical position of each additional stop arm or disc shall
correspond with the extent of the divergence from left to right.
2.3 Signal aspect and route indication combinations

2.3.1 Junction signal aspect and route indication combinations shall be presented only
in accordance with Table 3.
Junction signal Permitted route indication type

Junction signal type
aspect type
All junction signals Stop aspect None (#1)
Colour light signal Proceed-aspect (#2) Junction indication
Colour light signal Proceed-aspect (#2) Alphanumeric indication
Colour light signal Proceed-aspect (#2) Junction indication

and
Alphanumeric indication
Semaphore signal Proceed-aspect Alphanumeric indication (#3)
Independent or
subsidiary position Proceed-aspect Alphanumeric indication (#3)
light signal
#1 See 2.3.2; #2 See 2.3.3; #3 See 2.3.4
Table 3 Permitted signal aspect and route indication combinations
2.3.2 A route indication and stop aspect combination shall be presented only for route
indication-proving purposes immediately before the proceed-aspect is presented.
2.3.3 A route indication shall not be presented in combination with any of the following
signal displays:
a) Flashing single yellow.
b) Flashing double yellow.
c) Any splitting distant signal aspect where both signal heads are illuminated.
2.3.4 When an alphanumeric route indication is presented by a main stop signal that
also incorporates a subsidiary signal aspect (unless the exception set out in 2.3.5
applies):
a) The alphanumeric route indications presented with main proceed-aspects

shall be displayed in a different position to any alphanumeric route
indications presented with the subsidiary aspect.
And
b) Any alphanumeric route indications presented with the subsidiary aspect

shall appear to be at least 50% smaller than the alphanumeric route
indications presented with the main proceed-aspects.
Page 8 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
2.3.5 A main stop signal shall present alphanumeric route indications that have a
similar size and positional relationship with the main and subsidiary aspects only
if the following criteria apply:
a) Physical environment and structure gauge limitations mean that compliance

with 2.3.4 is not feasible.
And
b) A signal sighting assessment confirms that sufficient mitigation will be

available to control the risk from a driver misreading the MA.
2.4 Signal aspects and supplementary indication combinations

2.4.1 Signal aspect and supplementary indication combinations shall be presented,
only as set out in Table 4.
Signal type Signal aspect Permitted Additional permitted

supplementary supplementary
indication indication
Stop signal
(excluding stop Stop aspect 'TT' None
board)
‘CD’ or ‘RA’ (#1)
Loading / unloading
All stop signals indication None
Proceed-aspect
Flashing white light
Isolated distant
‘CD’ or ‘RA’ (#1) None
signal
Banner repeater ON aspect None
Banner repeater OFF aspect 'CD' or 'RA' (#1) None
Flashing red light
Stop board Steady yellow light
Stop aspect Flashing white light
(#2) Steady blue light
Flashing blue light
#1 Where both indications are presented at the same signal, the ‘RA’ indication shall
supersede the ‘CD’ indication
#2 The stop board shall also present wording to convey any relevant operating
instructions
Table 4 Signal aspect and supplementary indication display combinations
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GK/RT0058
Part 3 Application of this document

3.1 Scope
3.1.1 The requirements of this document apply to all work that affects lineside signal
aspects and indications, whether new or alteration.
3.1.2 Where infrastructure is subject to modification or upgrade and the nature of the
modification or upgrade provides a reasonable opportunity to bring the
infrastructure into conformity, then the requirements of this document applicable
to the alteration apply.
3.1.3 Action to bring existing lineside signal aspects and indications into compliance
with the requirements of this document [or part of document] is not required.
3.1.4 Action to bring existing lineside signal aspects and indications into compliance is
required when that part of the lineside signalling system is modified or renewed
as a whole.
3.2 Exclusions from scope

3.2.1 The requirements in this standard are not applicable where an in-cab signalling
system is in use.
3.3 General compliance date

3.3.1 This Railway Group Standard comes into force and is to be complied with from
07 March 2015.
3.3.2 After the compliance date, or the date by which compliance is achieved, if earlier,
compliance with the requirements set out in this Railway Group Standard is to be
maintained. Where it is considered not reasonably practicable to comply with the
requirements, permission to comply with a specified alternative should be sought
in accordance with the Railway Group Standards Code.
3.4 Exceptions to general compliance date

3.4.1 There are no exceptions to the general compliance date specified in 3.3.
3.4.2 It is permissible to designate specific infrastructure projects, at an advanced

stage of development when this document comes into force, for which
compliance with the requirements of this document applicable to the design,
construction and commissioning of new or altered infrastructure is not mandatory.
When designating such projects, the following shall be considered:
a) Its responsibilities under its current safety authorisation.
b) The stage reached by the project at the time this document comes into force
(for example, approval in principle).
c) Whether compliance is necessary to ensure compatibility with other parts of

the infrastructure.
d) Whether compliance is necessary to facilitate the safe working of the railway

system having regard to changes to related requirements mandated on
another infrastructure manager or a railway undertaking.
e) The economic impact of compliance, but subject to its current safety

authorisation in relation to the infrastructure in question.
Page 10 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
3.4.3 Where any designations are made for infrastructure projects, those projects shall
continue to meet the equivalent requirements in the RGSs applying to the project
before the designation.
3.5 Health and safety responsibilities

3.5.1 Users of documents published by RSSB are reminded of the need to consider
their own responsibilities to ensure health and safety at work and their own duties
under health and safety legislation. RSSB does not warrant that compliance with
all or any documents published by RSSB is sufficient in itself to ensure safe
systems of work or operation or to satisfy such responsibilities or duties.
RSSB Page 11 of 37
GK/RT0058
Appendix A Information Conveyed by Lineside Signals

The content of this appendix is mandatory
A.1 Limit of MA
Conveyed information Description Example Designation
Colour light signal
head generating
the red display
Semaphore main
stop arm
horizontally
aligned (+5o, -5o)
and a red signal
light
Main stop
aspect
Stop board
Stop
Retro-reflective
buffer beam in (#1)
combination with
MA information:
two buffer-stop
Limit of MA lights vertically
aligned
Independent
position light
signal generating
the PLS red ON
display
Semaphore
miniature stop
arm horizontally
Shunting stop
aligned (+5o, -5o)
aspect
and a red signal
light
Semaphore
shunting disc
horizontally
aligned (+5o, -5o)
and a red signal
light
#1 Buffer-stop lights coloured either signal red or signal white
Table A.1 Stop aspects
Page 12 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
A.2 Limit of MA on the signalled route

MA information Independent position Non-preferred
Limit of MA for train light signal Shunting
movements towards a generating the PLS conditional stop
signalled line yellow ON display aspect
Table A.2 Shunting conditional stop aspects
A.3 Shunting MA
Independent position
light signal generating
the PLS steady OFF
display
MA information: Semaphore shunting

Shunting MA. disc aligned at 45o
The line ahead might be (+20o, -10o) above or
occupied. below horizontal and
a green signal light (upper quadrant is shown)
Routing information:
(#1) Semaphore miniature
stop arm aligned at
45o (+20o, -10o)
above or below
horizontal and a
green signal light (upper quadrant is shown)
Shunt aspect
A position light signal

generating PLS
steady OFF display in
combination with a
colour light signal
head generating the
MA information: red display
Shunting MA.
The line ahead might be
occupied. A position light signal
generating PLS
steady OFF display in
combination with a
Stop
stop board
#1 Section 2.2 sets out further requirements for conveying routing information using multiple
semaphore signal arms and discs
Table A.3 Shunt aspects
RSSB Page 13 of 37
GK/RT0058
A.4 Calling on MA
A position light
signal generating
PLS steady OFF
display in
combination with
a colour light
signal head
generating the red
display
A semaphore
MA information:
calling-on arm Calling-on
Calling-on MA. aligned at 45o aspect
The line ahead is occupied. (+20o, -10o) above
or below
horizontal and a
green signal light
positioned below
a semaphore
main stop arm
horizontally
aligned (+5o, -5o)
and a red signal (upper quadrant is shown)
light
Table A.4 Calling-on aspects
Page 14 of 37 RSSB
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A.5 Proceed-on-Sight Authority (PoSA) MA

A position light
signal generating
PLS flashing OFF
display in
Subsidiary
combination with
PoSA aspect
MA information: a colour light
signal head
Proceed-on-sight authority generating the red
(PoSA) MA (#1)
display
A position light
signal generating Independent
PLS flashing OFF PoSA aspect
display (#1)
#1 Flashing aspect parameters:
a) Flashing rate: 60 cycles per minute (+/-10).
b) Flashing pattern:
i) Lit for 50% - 66% of each flashing cycle.
ii) Flashing cycles shall be of equal length.
iii) Multiple display elements flash synchronously.
Table A.5 PoSA aspects
A.6 Cautionary MA in 3-aspect track circuit block (TCB) signalling areas

A colour light
signal head
generating the
MA information: single yellow
Non-permissive MA. display
One signal section is clear. 3-aspect caution
Signalling braking distance
is available. A fixed distant
board
Table A.6 Cautionary aspects in 3-aspect TCB signalling areas
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A.7 Cautionary MA in 4-aspect TCB signalling areas (preferred)

MA information:
Non-permissive MA. A colour light
signal head
Two signal sections are generating the 4-aspect first caution
clear. double yellow
Signalling braking distance display
is available.
MA information:
signal head
One signal section is clear. 4-aspect single yellow
generating the
At least 33% signalling caution
single yellow
braking distance is display
available.
Table A.7 Preferred cautionary aspects in 4-aspect TCB signalling areas

A.8 Cautionary MA in 4-aspect TCB signalling areas (non-preferred)
MA information: (#1 or #2)
Non-permissive MA. Non-preferred
Three signal sections are
clear.
A colour light 4-aspect first caution
is available. signal head
generating the
MA information: (#1) double yellow
Non-permissive MA. display Non-preferred
Two signal sections are
clear. 4-aspect additional double
Less than signalling braking yellow caution
distance is available.
MA information: (#2)
Non-permissive MA. Non-preferred
clear.
4-aspect single yellow
At least 33% signalling A colour light caution
braking distance is signal head
available. generating the
MA information: (#2) single yellow
display Non-preferred
Non-permissive MA.
One signal section is clear.
Less than 33% signalling 4-aspect closing-up single
braking distance is yellow caution
available.
#1 Part of YY – YY – Y – R cautionary aspect sequence
#2 Part of YY – Y – Y – R cautionary aspect sequence
Table A.8 Non-preferred cautionary aspects in 4-aspect TCB signalling areas
Page 16 of 37 RSSB
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A.9 Unrestricted MA in TCB signalling areas

A colour light
signal head
MA information: generating the
Non-permissive MA. green display
Line clear.
Semaphore main TCB unrestricted
stop arm aligned proceed-aspect
at 45o (+20o, -10o)
(#1) above or below
horizontal and a
green signal light
(upper quadrant is shown)
#1 Section 2.2 sets out further requirements for semaphore junction signal OFF aspects
Table A.9 TCB unrestricted proceed-aspects
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A.10 MA information conveyed by distant signal ON and OFF aspects

A colour light
signal head
generating the
double yellow
display
A colour light
signal head
MA information: generating the
single yellow
End of MA at the display
associated home signal or Distant ON aspect
non-block stop signal. Semaphore (#2)
Signalling braking distance distant arm
is available (#1). horizontally
aligned (+5o, -5o)
and a yellow
signal light
A fixed distant
board
MA information: A colour light

All associated stop signals signal head
are OFF. generating the
green display
Next block or token section
is clear, or the next signal is
a non-block stop signal
displaying a proceed Semaphore
Distant OFF aspect
aspect. distant arm
(#3)
aligned at 45o
(+20o, -10o) above
or below
horizontal and a
green signal light
(upper quadrant is
shown)
#1 Except for repeat distant ON aspects

#2 Includes intermediate block distant ON aspect
#3 Includes intermediate block distant OFF aspect
Table A.10 Distant signal aspects
Page 18 of 37 RSSB
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A.11 MA information conveyed by home signal aspects and non-block stop

signal aspects
MA information:
Semaphore main
Non-permissive MA. Semaphore home
stop arm aligned
One signal section is clear. signal OFF aspect
at 45o (+20o, -10o)
above or below
Routing information: horizontal and a Non-block
green signal light (upper quadrant is shown) semaphore stop
(#1)
signal OFF aspect
Colour light home

A colour light signal yellow-OFF
MA information: signal head aspect
Non-permissive MA. generating the
One signal section is clear. single yellow Colour light non-
display block yellow-OFF
aspect
Colour light home
MA information: A colour light signal green-OFF
Non-permissive MA. signal head aspect
All associated stop signals generating the Colour light non-
are OFF. green display block green-OFF
aspect
Table A.11 Home signal and non-block stop signal OFF aspects
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A.12 MA information conveyed by section signal aspects and intermediate

block home signal aspects
MA information: (#1) Section signal

Semaphore main OFF aspect
Non-permissive MA.
Block, token or one-train stop arm aligned
staff section is clear. at 45o (+20o, -10o)
above or below
horizontal and a Intermediate
Routing information: green signal light (upper quadrant is shown)
block home signal
(#2) OFF aspect
MA information: (#1)
Colour light
Block, token or one-train signal head
section signal
staff section is clear as far generating the
yellow-OFF
as the home signal. single yellow
aspect (#3)
Signalling braking distance display
is available.
Colour light home
MA information: (#1) A colour light signal green-OFF
Non-permissive MA. signal head aspect
Block, token or one-train generating the Intermediate
staff section is clear. green display block home signal
OFF aspect
#1 Electric token block systems and one-train staff systems additionally require the transfer of a
token or staff as part of the MA
#3 Also acts as a distant ON aspect
Table A.12 Section signal and intermediate block home signal OFF aspects
Page 20 of 37 RSSB
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A.13 Signal aspects that convey MA and routing information

MA information:
Non-permissive MA as far A colour light
as the first signal beyond signal head 4-aspect outer
the junction. generating the junction approach
flashing double flashing caution
SBD is available to the yellow display
junction signal.
(#1)
Routing information: A colour light

The next junction signal is signal head 3-aspect junction
displaying a cautionary generating the approach flashing
aspect for a diverging flashing single caution
route. yellow display (#1)
MA information:
Non-permissive MA as far
as the first signal beyond
the junction.
SBD is available.
A colour light
At least 33% SBD is
signal head 4-aspect inner
available to the junction
generating the junction approach
signal.
flashing single flashing caution
yellow display
Routing information: (#1)
The next junction signal is
displaying a cautionary
aspect for a diverging
route.
#1 Flashing aspect parameters:

iii) The flashing double yellow aspect shall flash in synchronism.
Table A.13 Junction approach flashing cautionary aspects
RSSB Page 21 of 37
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MA information: Splitting distant

straight ahead
Non-permissive MA. caution – right-
Two signal sections are hand junction
clear.
is available.
Splitting distant
straight ahead
Routing information: caution – left-
Principal set. hand junction
MA information:
Non-permissive MA.
clear.
Splitting distant
left-hand junction
is available.
caution
Routing information: Two colour light

Left-hand diverging route signal heads
set. combined as a
junction splitting
MA information: distant signal
Non-permissive MA.
clear.
Splitting distant
right-hand
is available.
junction caution
Right-hand diverging route
set.
Splitting distant
straight ahead
MA information: unrestricted
proceed-aspect –
Non-permissive MA.
right-hand
Line clear. junction
Splitting distant
Routing information: straight ahead
Principal set. unrestricted
proceed-aspect –
left-hand junction
Page 22 of 37 RSSB
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MA information:
Non-permissive MA.
Line clear. Splitting distant
left-hand junction
unrestricted
Routing information: proceed-aspect
Left-hand diverging route
set.
MA information:
Non-permissive MA. Splitting distant
Line clear. right-hand
junction
Routing information: unrestricted
proceed-aspect
Right-hand diverging route
set.
Table A.14 Junction approach splitting cautionary and unrestricted proceed-aspects
A.14 Indications that repeat MA information

Banner repeater head

The repeated signal is
displaying a horizontal Banner-ON
displaying a main stop
banner arm against a indication
aspect
white background

displaying a proceed-
aspect Banner repeater head
(#1) displaying an upper
Banner white-
quadrant banner arm
The repeated signal is OFF indication
against a white
displaying a cautionary background
aspect
(#2)
The repeated colour light Banner repeater head
signal is displaying a green displaying an upper
aspect quadrant banner arm Banner green-
(#2) against a green OFF indication
background
#1 2-state banner repeater indicators only

#2 3-state banner repeater indicators only
Table A.15 Banner repeater indications
RSSB Page 23 of 37
GK/RT0058
A.15 Indications that repeat MA and routing information

Equal height
Equal height splitting
splitting banner-
banner
ON indication

displaying a main stop
aspect.
Two banner ON- Equal height
indications presented splitting banner-
side by side ON indication

aspect.
(#1)
A banner white-OFF Splitting white
The left-hand route is set. indication positioned to banner-OFF
The repeated signal is the left-hand side of a indication (equal
displaying a cautionary banner-ON indication height left hand)
aspect.
(#2)
The left-hand route is set.
The repeated colour light
signal is displaying a green A banner green-OFF Splitting green
aspect. indication positioned to banner-OFF
the left-hand side of a indication (equal
(#2)
banner-ON indication height left hand)
The left-hand route is set.
Page 24 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058

aspect.
(#1)
A banner white-OFF Splitting white
The right-hand route is set. indication positioned to banner-OFF
The repeated signal is the right-hand side of a indication (equal
displaying a cautionary banner-ON indication height right hand)
aspect.
(#2)
The right-hand route is set.
The repeated colour light A banner green-OFF Splitting green
signal is displaying a green indication positioned to banner-OFF
aspect. the right-hand side of a indication (equal
(#2) banner-ON indication height right hand)
The right-hand route is set.
aspect.
(#1)
Splitting white
The higher speed left-hand A banner white-OFF
banner-OFF
route is set. indication positioned
indication
higher than and to the
The repeated signal is (stepped left
left-hand side of a
displaying a cautionary hand, higher
banner-ON indication
aspect. speed route)
(#2)
The higher speed left-hand
route is set.
The repeated colour light A banner green-OFF Splitting green
signal is displaying a green indication positioned banner-OFF
aspect higher than and to the indication
(#2) left-hand side of a (stepped left
banner-ON indication hand, higher
The higher speed left-hand
speed route)
route is set
aspect.
(#1)
Splitting white
The higher speed right- A banner white-OFF
banner-OFF
hand route is set. indication positioned
indication
The repeated signal is (stepped right
right-hand side of a
displaying a cautionary hand, higher
aspect. speed route)
(#2)
The higher speed right-
hand route is set.
RSSB Page 25 of 37
GK/RT0058

The repeated colour light Splitting green
signal is displaying a green A banner green-OFF
banner-OFF
aspect. indication positioned
indication
(#2) (stepped right
right-hand side of a
The higher speed right- hand, higher
hand route is set. speed route)

aspect.
(#1)
The lower speed left-hand A banner white-OFF Splitting white
route is set. indication positioned banner-OFF
lower than and to the indication
The repeated signal is left-hand side of a (stepped left-hand
displaying a cautionary banner-ON indication route)
aspect.
(#2)
The lower speed left-hand
route is set.
aspect. indication positioned banner-OFF
(#2)
left-hand side of a (stepped left-hand
The lower speed left-hand banner-ON indication route)
route is set.
aspect.
(#1)
The lower speed right-hand A banner white-OFF Splitting white
route is set. indication positioned banner-OFF
The repeated signal is right-hand side of a (stepped right-
displaying a cautionary banner-ON indication hand route)
aspect.
(#2)
The lower speed right-hand
route is set.
aspect. indication positioned banner-OFF
(#2)
right-hand side of a (stepped right-
The lower speed right-hand banner-ON indication hand route)
route is set.
#1 2-state splitting banner repeater indicators only
#2 3-state splitting banner repeater indicators only
Table A.16 Splitting banner repeater indications
Page 26 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
Appendix B Information Conveyed by Route Indicators

B.1 Directional information

No junction indication is presented
The principal route is set
X Position 1 junction
The 1st left-hand diverging indication
route is set
‘X’ denotes the PIVOT end
Position 2 junction
The 2nd left-hand diverging indication
route is set XX
X
XX
Position 3 junction
The 3rd left-hand diverging indication
route is set
An illuminated
white bar of light
Position 4 junction
The 1st right-hand diverging indication
route is set
X
Position 5 junction
The 2nd right-hand diverging indication
route is set XX
XX
X
Position 6 junction
The 3rd right-hand diverging indication
route is set
Table B.1 Junction indications
RSSB Page 27 of 37
GK/RT0058
Routing information: Position 0

The principal route is set at preliminary junction
the next diverging junction indication
Position 1
The 1st left-hand diverging preliminary junction
route is set at the next indication
diverging junction
Position 2
The 2nd left-hand diverging preliminary junction
diverging junction
Position 3
The 3rd left-hand diverging An illuminated arrow
preliminary junction
route is set at the next indication (#1)
indication
diverging junction
Position 4
The 1st right-hand diverging preliminary junction
diverging junction
Position 5
The 2nd right-hand diverging preliminary junction
diverging junction
Position 6
The 3rd right-hand diverging preliminary junction
diverging junction
#1 No indication shall be presented when the junction signal is displaying a main stop aspect
Table B.2 Preliminary junction indications
Page 28 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
B.2 Route and destination information

No route indication is presented
The principal route is set
Any horizontally
aligned combination
of one, two or three
upper case
alphanumeric
characters, as
follows:
Preferred:
0123456789
M
The route is set towards the
indicated destination ABCDEFGH SDG
KLMN P R Alphanumeric route
(Examples only)
indication
STU W YZ
Non-preferred:
IJOV
The route is set towards a
limit of shunt or along a bi- X (#1)
directional line in the
X
opposite direction to the
normal flow of traffic
#1 Where a signal has more than one contra-direction route, the relevant alphanumeric route
indication shall combine the letter X with one or two additional characters
Table B.3 Alphanumeric route indications
RSSB Page 29 of 37
GK/RT0058
Appendix C System Status Information Conveyed by Lineside

Indicators
C.1 Locally monitored infrastructure not operated

Infrastructure not
Locally monitored A flashing red
operated indication
infrastructure not operated light
(#2)
(#1)
#1 Flashing indication parameters:

i) Lit for nominal 20% of each flashing cycle.
ii) Each flashing cycle of equal length.
#2 Locally monitored infrastructure types include facing points and level crossings
Table C.1 Locally monitored infrastructure not operated indication
C.2 Locally monitored facing points status information

Locally monitored points are A steady yellow Facing points set

correctly set light indication
Table C.2 Facing points set indication
Page 30 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
C.3 Locally monitored level crossing status information

Locally monitored level A flashing white Level crossing

crossing operating correctly light operating indication
(#1)
Barriers are fully raised

Alphanumeric BU ‘Barriers Up’
(#2)

a) Flashing rate: 60-90 cycles per minute.
#2 Absence of the indication implies that the level crossing has failed after passage of the train
Table C.3 Locally monitored level crossing indications
C.4 TPWS status information

TPWS intervention is set

A steady blue light TPWS set indication
at the stop-board
TPWS is disarmed at the TPWS disarmed

A flashing blue light
stop-board indication
(#1)
TPWS has failed No indication presented

i) Lit for nominal 20% of each flashing cycle.
Table C.4 TPWS indications
RSSB Page 31 of 37
GK/RT0058
C.5 Mechanical trip-cock system status information

Alphanumeric Trip-cock test

Trip-cock test underway
indication
TT indication
Trip-cock test OK TT extinguishes
Table C.5 Mechanical trip-cock test indications
Page 32 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
Appendix D Operational Information Conveyed by Lineside

Indicators
D.1 Train dispatch operation indications

The associated stop signal is
displaying a proceed-aspect OFF Signal OFF
indication
The train has an MA (#1) (#2)
Close doors
Alphanumeric CD Close doors
(#3)
Right away
RA Right away
indication
(#3)
#1 In ETCS areas only, where the MA is not conveyed by a signal aspect

#2 Presented either on its own or in combination with a signal identity or direction identity
#3 Where an indicator displays CD and RA, the CD indication shall be presented first and the RA
indication shall supersede the CD indication
Table D.1 Train dispatch indications
D.2 Loading / unloading operational information

Three red lights

Stop immediately aligned Stop indication
horizontally
Three white
lights aligned at Position 1 shunting
Prepare to stop
45o left hand indication
raised
Proceed forwards slowly Position 0 shunting

Three white indication
lights aligned
vertically
RSSB Page 33 of 37
GK/RT0058
Three flashing
Reverse slowly white lights Position 4 shunting
aligned at 45o indication
right hand
raised
(#1)
iii) Multiple display elements flash synchronously.
Table D.2 Loading / unloading indications
Page 34 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
Definitions
Aspect
(See signal aspect).
Authorised user
A person authorised to carry out one or more operational roles defined in GE/RT8000 Rule
Book. Authorised user roles include train driver, shunter, guard and platform staff.
Display (noun)
The overall appearance of the image generated by a lineside signalling product or feature.
Diverging junction
A type of junction incorporating one or more facing points ends where one signalled line
splits into two or more separate signalled lines.
Diverging route
Any route at a diverging junction that is not designated as the principal route.
Indication
(See signal indication.)
Interpret / interpreting (signalling system displays)

The action of understanding the information conveyed by the signal aspect or indication
after it has been read (for example, understanding that a red aspect means ‘end of MA’).
Interpretable (signalling system displays)

The extent to which the information conveyed by a signal aspect or indication can be
reliably interpreted, ranging from not interpretable to easily interpretable.
Interpretability
The ease and reliability with which signal aspects and indications can be interpreted by an
authorised user throughout the range of operational and ambient conditions applicable to
that feature, within the operational context and while performing typical required duties.
This ranges from never interpretable to always interpretable.
Junction signal
A main stop signal that protects a diverging junction.
Lineside operational sign

A sign, positioned at the lineside, that conveys information needed to support the train
driving task.
Lineside signalling system

A system that is used to convey information about the movement authorities, routes,
equipment status, operational information and permissible speeds in the form of lineside
signal aspects, route indications, signalling indications and lineside signs.
Locally monitored system / infrastructure

A signalling system or train protection system that uses a lineside signalling indication to
indicate its operational status to authorised users.
Movement authority (MA) information

Information conveyed by the lineside signalling system describing the permission for a
particular train to run to a specific location within the constraints of the signalling system.
RSSB Page 35 of 37
GK/RT0058
Operational information
Operational information conveyed by the lineside signalling system describing an action to
be taken by an authorised user.
Principal route
The signalled line beyond a diverging junction that has the highest permissible speed of all
routes at the junction.
Route indication
A display of specified appearance that is used to conveying routing information to an
authorised user.
Route indicator
A permanent, fixed feature of the lineside signalling system that is capable of displaying a
route indication.
Routing information
Information conveyed by the lineside signalling system describing the route or destination
that is associated with an MA.
Sign
A device that displays a fixed image or text, in order to convey specific information to the
reader.
Signal
signal aspect.
Signal aspect / indication

A display of specified appearance that is used to convey a specific set of information to an
authorised user.
Signalling braking distance (SBD)

The distance between the first signal exhibiting a cautionary aspect and the signal at which
the train is required to stop.
Signalling indicator
signalling indication.
System status information

Information conveyed by the lineside signalling system concerning the operational status of
a system or infrastructure feature that is designed to be monitored by authorised users.
Un-signalled line
The part of the railway that is operated without the use of lineside signals or indicators.
Page 36 of 37 RSSB
GK/RT0058
References
The Catalogue of Railway Group Standards gives the current issue number and status of
documents published by RSSB. This information is also available from
www.rgsonline.co.uk.
RGSC 01 Railway Group Standards Code

RGSC 02 Standards Manual
Documents referenced in the text

Railway Group Standards
GE/RT8000 Rule Book
GE/RT8101 Signal Sighting Assessment Requirements [in preparation,
will replace GE/RT8037]
GK/RT0045 Lineside Signals, Indicators and Layout of Signals
GK/RT0057 Lineside Signal and Indicator Product Design and
Assessment Requirements
GK/RT0070 Signalling Layout Requirements [in preparation, will
replace some parts of GK/RT0045]
RSSB documents
GK/GN0658 Guidance on Lineside Signal Aspect and Indication
Requirements
RSSB Page 37 of 37

Lineside Signal Aspect and Indication Requirements

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Lineside Signal Aspect

RSSB Members are granted copyright licence in

In circumstances where Rail Safety and Standards Board

Superseded documents Sections superseded Date when

Part 1 Purpose and Introduction 5

Part 2 Requirements for Lineside Signal Aspect and Indication Requirements 6

Part 3 Application of this document 10

Table A.16 Splitting banner repeater indications 26

Part 1 Purpose and Introduction

1.2.2 Related requirements in other documents

GK/RT0070 Signalling Layout Design Requirements [in preparation, will

GE/RT8102 Signalling Layout Driveability Assessment Requirements [in

1.2.3 Supporting documents

GK/GN0658 Guidance on Lineside Signal Aspect and Indication

1.3 Approval and authorisation of this document

1.3.2 This document was authorised by RSSB on 24 October 2014.

Part 2 Requirements for Lineside Signal Aspect and

b) The relevant signal aspect is readable whenever the signal is approached by

Type of Clause or Table reference

Repeat MA Banner repeater indication Table A.15 Not applicable

Junction indication Table B.1

Locally Coloured light signalling

2.2 Signal aspect and indication combinations

Signal aspect type Display combination requirements

a) A separate stop arm shall be provided for each route.

a) A separate stop arm or disc shall be provided for each route.

2.3 Signal aspect and route indication combinations

Junction signal Permitted route indication type

Colour light signal Proceed-aspect (#2) Alphanumeric indication

Colour light signal Proceed-aspect (#2) Junction indication

a) Flashing single yellow.

b) Flashing double yellow.

a) The alphanumeric route indications presented with main proceed-aspects

b) Any alphanumeric route indications presented with the subsidiary aspect

a) Physical environment and structure gauge limitations mean that compliance

b) A signal sighting assessment confirms that sufficient mitigation will be

2.4 Signal aspects and supplementary indication combinations

Signal type Signal aspect Permitted Additional permitted

Part 3 Application of this document

3.2 Exclusions from scope

3.3 General compliance date

3.4 Exceptions to general compliance date

3.4.2 It is permissible to designate specific infrastructure projects, at an advanced

a) Its responsibilities under its current safety authorisation.

c) Whether compliance is necessary to ensure compatibility with other parts of

d) Whether compliance is necessary to facilitate the safe working of the railway

e) The economic impact of compliance, but subject to its current safety

3.5 Health and safety responsibilities

Appendix A Information Conveyed by Lineside Signals

A.2 Limit of MA on the signalled route

Table A.2 Shunting conditional stop aspects

MA information: Semaphore shunting

A position light signal

Table A.3 Shunt aspects

Table A.4 Calling-on aspects

A.5 Proceed-on-Sight Authority (PoSA) MA

Table A.5 PoSA aspects

A.6 Cautionary MA in 3-aspect track circuit block (TCB) signalling areas

Table A.6 Cautionary aspects in 3-aspect TCB signalling areas

A.7 Cautionary MA in 4-aspect TCB signalling areas (preferred)

Table A.7 Preferred cautionary aspects in 4-aspect TCB signalling areas

A.9 Unrestricted MA in TCB signalling areas