SIGNAL FIRECRACKER AND FIRECRACKER CASE

English Version

Description: The Signalling Regulations set out the circumstances in which firecrackers must be used, how they are to be positioned, and, in particular, the rules of conduct to which train crew must adhere. As is well known, firecrackers must generally be used in conditions of reduced visibility, in advance of both fixed signals (warning signals, Category 1 signals, Category 2 signals) and hand signals (attention signals, warning to slow down, warning of a notified stop), in accordance with the provisions of Article 64/1 of the Consolidated Regulations. 

The use of signal flares is also provided for, regardless of visibility conditions, as an aid in other specific cases (stop signal for notification of an unexpected halt; protection of the rear of the train in the event of a distress call; protection of the second part of a train split on the line; etc.).

Firecrackers must not be used if the signals that are to be supplemented are preceded by various types of directional signs (Article 65 R.S.)

The use of firecrackers was abolished by Circular R/ST.MV/R.02 – R/ST.IE. – R/ST.OC. Item 3.64 of 13 June 1994 issued by Ferrovie dello Stato S.p.A. – Network Division – Technical Services:

[…] In the cases provided for by the Signalling Regulations, track staff must, on their own initiative, supplement fixed signals located beyond the outermost points of stations with firecrackers. This responsibility falls to officers stationed at fixed surveillance posts and those at surveillance posts set up specifically for this service […]

[…] anyone in charge of firecrackers must take every precaution when handling them to prevent them from being subjected to shocks or even slight heating, which could cause accidental explosions […] Boxes containing firecrackers must be stored by guards, road maintenance workers and foremen inside the premises they use, on shelves or hung in a position sufficiently far from chimneys, stoves and tools, and never within reach of children. […] All staff are obliged to report accidental explosions of firecrackers to their superiors, even if they have not caused any inconvenience […].

Pubblicazioni correlate:

Regolamento sui Segnali
Istruzioni per il servizio del personale di linea – edizione 1930 (Biblioteca Ferrovie Arrugginite)