Keepin' ON TRACK
Technical Data

Hand Signals

Since the use of hand signals is basically used to perform yard operations, it is useful on the main line when your consist separates or you are using passing sidings and not able to see both ends of the train. Below are six commonly used hand signals. The same motion is used with hands and or flags in the daylight and lamps when dark. It is assumed that the person sending the signal is at right angles to the track and facing the person who needs to see the signal.

Signal to... Use this Motion

STOP Move hand/lamp/flag horizontally across the body at waist height or above the head and at a right angle to the track.

REDUCE SPEED Hold the hand at shoulder height at arm’s length straight away from body.

PROCEED Hold the hand straight down at arm’s length next to the body.

BACK With arm straight, swing hand in circle using shoulder as center of circle.

APPLY AIR BRAKES* With arm straight swing hand above head horizontally while standing.

RELEASE AIR BRAKES* With arm straight, hold arm above head while standing.

* So far, this hasn't been necessary on our layouts. Is DCC heading in that direction?

Two general rules that apply:
STOP Any object waved violently by anyone on or near the track.

STOP Any signal must be given so that it can be plainly seen and not misunderstood. If there is a doubt as to its meaning by the person who receives the signal, it must be regarded as a STOP signal. Members Contest: Part of the Author's name, it falls behind, usually one to follow the ladies.

Return to Index
Return to Home Page

Signal to...	Use this Motion
STOP	Move hand/lamp/flag horizontally across the body at waist height or above the head and at a right angle to the track.
REDUCE SPEED	Hold the hand at shoulder height at arm’s length straight away from body.
PROCEED	Hold the hand straight down at arm’s length next to the body.
BACK	With arm straight, swing hand in circle using shoulder as center of circle.
APPLY AIR BRAKES*	With arm straight swing hand above head horizontally while standing.
RELEASE AIR BRAKES*	With arm straight, hold arm above head while standing.

STOP	Any object waved violently by anyone on or near the track.
STOP	Any signal must be given so that it can be plainly seen and not misunderstood. If there is a doubt as to its meaning by the person who receives the signal, it must be regarded as a STOP signal. Members Contest: Part of the Author's name, it falls behind, usually one to follow the ladies.