Korean Railway Safety Act (5): Railway Operation and Composition Principles

Introduction: Order on Tracks: The World of Operation Rules

If the Railway Safety Act is the “Law” in a broad framework, then the ‘Railway Vehicle Operation Rules’ are practical ‘Guidelines’ that prescribe how trains are actually made (composition), at what speed they should run, and in what order they should stop. These rules, prescribed by Ordinance of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, are the most specific promises that engineers or controllers face every moment in the field.

Today, we will summarize the essence of these operation rules, which are essential for anyone interested in the technical side of the South Korean rail industry.

1. Train Composition

Making a train is not just about connecting vehicles. There is a strict order considering safety and efficiency.

Position of the Locomotive: In principle, it must be located at the very front of the train. (However, the position may vary in special cases such as push-pull operation.)
Connection of Vehicles: Connecting devices must be firmly coupled, and it must be verified that air does not leak after connecting the braking pipe (air hose).
Ratio of Braking Axles: The ratio of wheels on which braking force acts relative to the weight of the entire train must be above a certain level. (Trains with insufficient braking force cannot be operated.)

2. Train Driving Speed (Article 10, etc.)

The maximum speed a train can produce is prescribed by law depending on the state of the track, overhead lines, and the type of signal.

Maximum Speed: It cannot exceed the design speed of the relevant track and vehicle.
Speed Limits by Situation:
- Downward Slope: Limited considering braking distance.
- Curved Sections: Limited to prevent derailment due to centrifugal force.
- Pushing Operation of Electric Trains: Speed is strictly limited when driving from a place other than the very front of the train (Usually 25km/h or less).

3. Testing of Braking Systems (Brake Test)

Before the train departs, the most important procedure is to verify ‘Does the brake work well?’

Testing Time:
- When the train is first composed.
- When there is a change in the composition of the train (when vehicles are removed or added).
- When the locomotive is replaced.
- When departing after stopping for a long time.
Testing Method: Verify that service braking and emergency braking work normally in all vehicles through pressure gauges and actual movement of the vehicle.

4. Reverse Driving and Pushing Operation

In principle, trains should go forward, but in special situations, reverse driving or pushing operation occurs.

Reverse Driving: Returning backward due to failure or line obstruction between stations. Approval from a controller and induction from an assistant are mandatory.
Pushing Operation: A method of pushing from behind to rescue a failed train or during special tasks. Since it is difficult to secure visibility, an assistant must be placed in the frontmost vehicle and the train must be operated at low speed.

Conclusion: Rules Become Safety Only When Followed

It is no exaggeration to say that operation rules are ‘rules written in blood’ created after numerous experiences of accidents and technical reviews. Familiarizing yourself with these rules is not just about knowing the law, but the process of preparing to take responsibility for the lives of passengers as a rail professional.

A Solid Foundation: Study the specific conditions and figures such as ‘25km/h’ (pushing operation), ‘45km/h’ (during bad weather), and ‘Brake test timing.’ Especially, distinguishing who the approval authority is (Controller vs. Station Master) by situation is key to understanding the professional hierarchy. Persistence in reading the core provisions repeatedly until the rules become second nature will build your technical foundation for the industry.

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