As a dispatcher on the ECML I'm expected to tap each handle on the mk3 sets before giving the hand signal to the Guard to lock them. For this reason me and the second dispatcher start at opposite ends of the train and work to the centre. If a passenger were then to open one of the end doors again I would make the journey back to check it. One of the best things about "handle tapping" is that it removes any doubt in my mind that I have checked every single door on my half of the train because it feels unnatural to miss one out. So to answer the question my own way, I certainly don't mind doors being left open because I will be passing them anyways and at the same time closing them isn't going to make me automatically add you to the Christmas card list.
This is extremely important and relevant. The handle is linked to the door latch so it will spring up with as much force as you close the door with (handle dropped door not closed, handle horizontal, door closed [as a general rule]). Very easy in this case for passengers of all ages to cause themselves injuries by having their hand even just near the handle when closing the door.
What I never understand is why people on the platform waiting to board just stand there watching when someone on the train is struggling to reach the handle and open the door. Just open the door for them!
Why *do* the Mk 3 doors not have handles on the insides? (any more. I think they used to, years back?)
It's not as though anybody's going to open them accidentally, when they have central locking.
Why *do* the Mk 3 doors not have handles on the insides? (any more. I think they used to, years back?)
It's not as though anybody's going to open them accidentally, when they have central locking.
but not enough to keep it shut potentially if it was leaned upon heavily. Nothing to do with the CDL.As forcing the handle down even with the central locking on can put the door ajar about a centimetre from flush. I believe it's called 'on the first catch',? As opposed to the second catch which means ajar to the point the central locking doesn't engage the door.
And if a train was in motion even with a door on this first catch, it'd still be a serious safety concern.
but not enough to keep it shut potentially if it was leaned upon heavily. Nothing to do with the CDL.
Yep, I know of a case where someone broke their wrist doing that!Never hold the handle when you close it, it'll have your wrist.
Same with GWR dispatchers as well tapping the handles.I don't often travel on slam door stock, but unless it has terminated, if I am last off I would generally shut it. I have been known to shut the train doors as well where people have left them open. Have been thanked for it before now. Interesting to read about the ECML operation, as I watched the despatcher going along tapping the door handles at Wakefield Westgate the other week (some of which I shut to try to help)
The CDL will not stop the door opening if it is on the catch and is being leant on with enough force.. it's only a little bolt that drops down after all?
The CDL stops the door from opening and means that if trying to force the door open, the most you can open it is on the first catch as i understand it?
If no CDL, forcing the handle would open the door. CDL engaged means it will go to the first catch if forced enough, but still won't open.
The CDL will not stop the door opening if it is on the catch and is being leant on with enough force.. it's only a little bolt that drops down after all
The CDL will not stop the door opening if it is on the catch and is being leant on with enough force.. it's only a little bolt that drops down after all
That would make it not fit for purpose, as that is the whole reason it was installed - to stop people falling out.
But aren't there two catches? The main catch which is the one where can you can see the yellow strip. And the door can open very easily .And central locking won't touch it.
And the (second catch?), which is the catch it can go on if forced when the doors have been closed and central locking engaged. As in the doorsill jar open about a cm but the train would need to be stopped.
Please correct or provide more info if anyone knows?
As a dispatcher on the ECML I'm expected to tap each handle
No, the two catches aren't two stages of improper closing. When the first catch only is engaged then the door is not shut correctly and will move around, but will be retained to some degree by this smaller catch.
The second catch is when the door is fully closed correctly and both catches have been passed.
Forcing the door as mentioned will put it on to the first catch but retained more solidly by the CDL bolt.
Many years ago in SWT land I observed the last passenger off a 442 try and try to close the door behind him. The guard came running down the platform probably hoping he’d make it before it was ripped off its runners!