Timetable and Train Order (TT&TO) operations are key to understanding traditional train control methods on railways. Under TT&TO, the timetable serves as the primary authority for train movements, providing a fixed schedule that crews must follow. However, when unforeseen events like equipment failures or unpredictable freight patterns occur, the schedule alone is insufficient. To manage such disruptions, dispatchers issue train orders, which contain specific instructions that modify or supplement the timetable. These orders allow for flexibility, ensuring safe and efficient train movements even when circumstances deviate from the planned schedule.

Key Elements of TT&TO Operations:

  • Timetable: A fixed schedule for trains that regular crews must adhere to. This method works well unless unusual circumstances arise, such as delays due to weather or unscheduled freight traffic.
  • Train Orders: Direct instructions issued by the dispatcher when a deviation from the timetable is necessary. This can include running extra trains, scheduling meets, or cancelling trains.
  • Clearance: Verification that the train crew has received all relevant orders. Crews obtain clearance before leaving stations or when receiving new train orders.
  • Train Order Signals: Stations display a signal, or “order board,” indicating whether a crew needs to stop to pick up orders. If the signal is red, the crew must stop and collect the necessary documents.

Process Flow:

  1. Regular Trains: Crews follow the timetable as printed.
  2. Extra Trains: Crews follow orders dictated by the dispatcher.
  3. Dispatcher’s Role: The dispatcher oversees the railroad and issues train orders to keep operations running smoothly. Historically, these orders were sent via telegraph but were later dictated over telephone circuits.

SUPERIORITY OF TRAINS

S-71. A train is superior to another train by right, class or direction.
Right is conferred by train order, class and direction by time-table.
Right is superior to class or direction.
Direction is superior as between train of the same class.

72. Trains of first class are superior to those of the second; trains of the second class are superior to those of the third; and so on.

S-72. Trains in the direction specificied by the time-table are superior to trains of the same class in the opposite direction.

73. Extra trains are inferior to regular trains.