Train Horns

Photo is a Leslie model S5T. Photographer, Harvey Henkelman.

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Trains Horns

Train Horns are warning devices found on most diesel and electric locomotives to alert people that
a train is coming. Also railroad employees use them during switching operations.

Steam whistles were used until diesel locomotives replaced steam on most railroads. First truck horns were tried but were unsuitable
so the air horn was modified for railroad use.

On April 27, 2005 the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), published the final rule of train horns at highway rail grade crossing.
The rule required that locomotive horns be sounded at all public grade crossing at least 15 seconds but not more than 20 seconds
before entering a crossing when the train speed is below 45 mph. Above this trains are to sound their horns at the designated
location usually marked with a whistle post.

The horn-blowing pattern is two long, one short, and one long, repeated as necessary until the lead locomotive fully occupies the
crossing. This pattern can be varied when crossing in close proximity or can be sounded anytime in any emergency situation.

Florida banned train horns until it was shown that the accident rate doubled during the ban. The new train horn rule takes
precedence over any state or local laws regarding the use of train horn at public crossings. Quiet zones are allowed as long as
acceptable safety measures are in place.

Signals are illustrated by an "o" for short sounds, and "-" for longer sounds.

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Trains Horns