Communication Cord

[Chrisgr31]

I thought that these days pulling the "communication cord" (or these days pressing the emergency button) no longer automatically put the brakes on a train.

However this morning our Class 171 diesel turbostar was on the fast line between East Croydon and London Bridge when it suddenly braked to a halt at Sydenham (where there are no platforms on the fast line).

We then had an announcement from the driver saying that the communication cord had been activated, and the conductor appeared to see which one had been activated. We then got underway again but stopped at New Cross "to allow the counductor to investigate and reset the communication cord".

I thought that these days if you operated the passenger alarm you effectively operated a communication system with the driver who could then decide whether to stop the rain immediately or take it to a station where help could be given easier.

So what is the case, and does anyone know why it was pulled today!

[Simpo Two]

Chrisgr31 said:

I thought that these days if you operated the passenger alarm you effectively operated a communication system with the driver who could then decide whether to stop the rain immediately or take it to a station where help could be given easier.

I don't know the answer but how would a driver be in a position to decide instantly whether to stop? The incident is X coaches behind him and he has no idea what it is. Anything else would be like calling the stewardess on a plane.

[neilb62]

The on most modern trains the Driver can delay the brake application to get the train clear of a viaduct, tunnel etc, otherwise the communication cord (or passcom as its now called) is allowed to act normally.

[Chrisgr31]

Simpo Two said:

I don't know the answer but how would a driver be in a position to decide instantly whether to stop? The incident is X coaches behind him and he has no idea what it is. Anything else would be like calling the stewardess on a plane.

I thought the theory was that on most occasions its activated for a medical emergency, and these are best dealt with at a station where medical assistance can be more easily provided. But didn't know.

[Chrisgr31]

neilb62 said:

The on most modern trains the Driver can delay the brake application to get the train clear of a viaduct, tunnel etc, otherwise the communication cord (or passcom as its now called) is allowed to act normally.

Thank you. Guess it makes some sense.