Signalling Systems and Safety.

Various systems of train protection are in force in the Dominion, and it is only on small and unimportant lines that there is not some mechanical form of train protection.

The Tablet apparatus is the main protective system on single lines of railway. This apparatus works electrically, and only one tablet for any section can be obtained from the instruments at any one time. On double lines the protective systems adopted are the Lock and Block signalling and Automatic signalling. With the Lock and Block system the page 60 starting signal at a station cannot be released until the preceding train has cleared the station in advance. This system is still in use between Heathcote and Christchurch and between Dunedin and Mosgiel, in the South Island. Automatic signalling, however, is the more modern system for double line working. Automatic signalling has also superseded the tablet system on several stretches of single line railway. Train control from central offices is now in operation over a great part of the lines of the Dominion.

The interlocking of signals and points at large stations has contributed largely to the safety of train working, as lias also the equipment of all rolling stock with the Westinghouse automatic air brake.

Rules and regulations are laid down regarding the working of trains and signals, and these are strictly applied, each member being examined annually as to his knowledge of the Rules and Regulations. The motto of the Department is “Safety First,” and every precaution is taken to ensure safe working. The rule books display prominently the following rule:—

“The first and most important duty of every member is to provide for the safety of the public.”

In this matter of safety the Railway Department in New Zealand has built up a splendid record—one of the finest in the world.