Getting Real column - 9
8: This is a job card for Train No. 14, the Merced
Local. It gives the operator the general scope of work
for their train. The notation “Non-OS” in the bottom
right corner identifies this job card as one where there
isn’t a dispatcher on duty. A slightly different job card
includes notes on calling the dispatcher at each sta-
tion or telephone location, and giving their OS (or “on
sheet”) time when a dispatcher is available during an
operating session.
8
Once I either assign a specific train to each operator (or they
choose themselves, always an option), I give each operator
one of these forms. The form simply lists which train (by name
and timetable number) each operator will be operating, which
locomotive and
caboose is assigned
to that train, the
yard where they will
start their run, and
the on-duty time for
that operator. The
form makes it easy
for an operator to
know when they are
to “get on the clock”
and know which
locomotive and
train is theirs for the
session.
Together with
an assignment
card, and a copy
of the timetable
(and switch list if
MRH-Jul 2013
