scope:

Introduction

This Track Work Instruction covers how to maintain the various types of buffer stop found on the network.

What is the purpose of a buffer stop?

A buffer stop is meant to mark the end of the line - it is not designed to stop traffic. They act as a red signal to the driver and, just like any other signal, the train should be brought to a halt before the signal.

They may be constructed out of strong material but they cannot be relied upon to stop a train.

The sliding friction type of buffer stop is designed to absorb the energy of a moving train but their primary task is to mark the end of the line.

See also the separate instruction:

TWI 2G075 How to maintain a sand drag