Network Rail issued NIR 3350/187 containing Urgent Operating Advice, which reminded all TOC/FOC drivers of the instructions contained within Rule Book Module TW1 S18:
18.1. You must carry out the following instructions when snow is falling, or fallen snow is being disturbed by the passage of trains.
18.2. You must make a full service application of the automatic brake every 3-5 minutes and make sure that the speed of your train is reduced by at least 10mph as a result of the application. If driving a locomotive – hauled train, you can extend this interval when:
* The train is climbing a steep rising gradient, and
* The train might be brought to a complete stand as a result of using the brake.
And NR's justification for issuing this Urgent Operating Advice?
Two category ‘A’ SPADs within two weeks, the most recent culminating in a derailment of 4N47 at Carr Bridge.
http://railwayeye.blogspot.com/2010/01/rmt-plays-politics-as-snow-falls.html
Further info on location:
Signalling control area: Aviemore, TCB single line, installed late 1970s. Signals unlit unless train approaches (AC334, AC225) , trap points provided.
Further Loops at Moy, Tomatin, Slochd, Aviemore and Kincraig, controlled from remotely from Aviemore. Fringes with Inverness SC and Kingussie
Gradients, steep, up to 1 in 60 rising and falling from Slochd summit.
Trains per day: 13 freight, 22 passenger, including Highland Chieftain HST to London King's cross and overnight sleeper from Euston.
Opening hours: Continuous
Linespeeds: Kingussie-kingcraig 100/90 mph, Kingcraig-Aviemore, 85/75/65 mph, Aviemore-Carrbridge 80mph, Carrbridge-Slochd 75/65/50 mph