831 Locomotive Engine Drivers and Related Workers

Locomotive engine drivers drive, or assist in driving, locomotive engines to transport passengers and freight. Tasks include - (a) driving or assisting in driving a steam, electric or diesel-electric locomotive engine; (b) driving an underground or elevated passenger train; (c) driving a locomotive to haul carriages underground or on the surface of a mine or quarry; (d) watching for track hazards and observing signals and indicator gauges; (e) operating communications systems to communicate with train crews and traffic controllers to ensure safe operation and scheduling of trains. Examples of the occupations classified here: - Locomotive driver - Metropolitan railway driver - Train driver Some related occupations classified elsewhere: - Tram driver - 8331 Notes Drivers of vehicles that operate on fixed rail systems that are separated from public roadways are classified in Unit Group 8311: Locomotive Engine Drivers. Drivers of vehicles for passenger transportation on fixed rails that are incorporated in the public roadway are classified in Unit Group 8331: Bus and Tram Drivers.

Railway brakers, signallers and shunters take charge of and safeguard railway freight trains during runs, control the movement of railway traffic by operating signals, switch rolling stock and make up trains in railway yards, make up trains for hauling in mines and control their movement. Tasks include - (a) taking charge of and safeguarding freight train during runs; (b) controlling the flow of railway traffic over sections of line by operating signals and switches from control panels or signal boxes; (c) switching and coupling rolling stock in railway yards and sidings in accordance with orders about loading, unloading and make-up of trains; (d) making up trains for hauling by locomotive or cable and directing their movement along haulage ways in a mine or quarry; (e) checking train systems and equipment such as air-conditioning and heating systems, brakes and brake hoses prior to train run. Examples of the occupations classified here: - Braker (railway) - Shunter (railway) - Signaller (railway).