Signalling

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Signalmen/Lady signalmen operate the signals and points  from a signal box in order to control the movement of trains. They play a key role in ensuring the safety of our passengers and train crew.

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The Railway has some of the most advanced heritage signalling in the country, giving volunteers a realistic experience of what it would have been like to work in a signal box during the 'golden age of steam'. We have 7 signal boxes, all using authentic lever frames, block instruments and vintage telephones. New signalmen start out in one of the country boxes and can progress to the more challenging  boxes over time as they gain more experience. 

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(Note that the word 'signalman' is a heritage term for the role, and encompasses people of any gender. )​​

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Skills/attributes needed

 

The signalling role suits people who are logical, decisive,  self-reliant, and have good communication skills. Signalmen work alone in a signal box but need to liaise closely with signalmen at other boxes and staff in other operational roles to keep the service running smoothly and safely.

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Volunteers wishing to become signalmen will need to pass a medical proving that they have a reasonable level of fitness and good eyesight and hearing, 

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Signalmen need to be able to commit at least ten days of rostered duty per year after completing their training.  Shifts generally last around ten hours.

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Please note: You will need access to emails and the internet, as correspondence and rostering for operational roles is all done online.​​

 

Training

 

Signalling is a safety-critical role and volunteers undergo rigorous training before they become qualified to operate a signal box. The training is in two parts:

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•  Trainees attend the Signalling School in Kidderminster for 10 Saturdays between November and March to learn the rules and regulations governing signalling on the Railway. They must pass a written examination in March/April, followed by an oral examination in April covering any errors made in the written test.

• Trainees are then allocated to learn one of the three country boxes - Hampton Loade, Highley or Arley. Over the course of the running season, they are rostered with regular signalmen who are qualified trainers at the box for their practical training, culminating in a box exam with one of our signalling inspectors.

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Trainees must also undertake the online Personal Track Safety and Working at Height courses while they are studying for their Regulations examination to ensure they are able to undertake operational duties safely when they begin their training in a signal box.

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If you already have expertise as a Signalman, please contact the VLO for guidance on your training requirements.

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