Continental European Signal Practices

Continental European Signal Practices

An examination of European signal codes reveals some commonality among older signals. Yet there is no European signal system nor has there been one. According to W. R. Smith of IUR-ORE in Utrecht (Smith 1987), and after consultation with other experts, the older signals are from the early part of the century during which time Germany occupied a very strong position in signal design and manufacture. Despite new models, a considerable portion of the older signals remain in service.

The types of signals that share a common origin include formsignals (central European type of semaphore), switch/point indicators (weichensignals), shunting signals and signal boards. There are several models of the formsignal in service; the German form consists of an arm with a circular end; the arm and disc are white in color with a red border (see OBB, DR, DB, PKP and other codes). The lamp units, as is true of many European signals, are separate from the arm. Many signals have one of these characteristics but seemingly only the Germanic form has both.

All systems have switch/point indicators but the German form is distinctive in housing shape, and in the use of arrows and other symbols. They are found in the Germanies, adjoining nations, possibly Spain and Portugal, and some non-European states. A final area of German influence is that of the signal board. This signal is hinged in the middle so that when not upright the board lies flat and is therefore not visible to the train crew. There is a second form of the signal board which is found in some systems. The second form is of one board on a pivot so that when it is in a parallel position to the track it denotes the proceed indication (or "blind edge"). This form is shared among several western and south-western European systems including France, Portugal and Spain, and some common origins may be present. The Dutch Klapbord (Op de Rails 1985b, 68) though bearing some resemblance to the Germanic form, can be seen as a separate marking (NS 1978, 46, 58) .

Despite the lack of an agreed upon system of signals, there are considerable similarities among some older forms of signals in Europe and especially so in central and eastern Europe. The newer IUR principles for signal indications probably foster at least partial adherence in European systems.

There are also some forms of signs that are common throughout Europe. The most notable form is that of electric traction signs. These signs denote various operations of such trains and share common graphic symbols. The signs vary in colors but are strikingly similar in most respects. Approach boards, a non-sign marking, are also a common feature of various systems. These boards, subject to national variations, are often multiple in number, striped and denote a specified number of meters to an approach signal. Speed restriction and station signs may bear some similarity to one another though there is not enough to suggest a common origin; the nature of sign functions can dictate similar signs without common origins.