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16th edition of the International Level Crossing Awareness Day


For the 16th ILCAD (International Level Crossing Awareness Day), the Community of European Railways focuses on road users crossing a level crossing with an agricultural or industrial machine (including lorries). Despite this specific target group changing every year, the main message of ILCAD remains valid for all motorists, pedestrians and cyclists: “The tracks are meant for trains”.

To mark this occasion, a new awareness campaign is being broadcast to remind drivers of the most important rules to follow when crossing a level crossing. These include stopping immediately when the light signals flash red and, in particular, never crossing the tracks unless you are sure you can cross completely in one go to the other side of the level crossing.


For more information

No, it is absolutely essential to obey the warning signs and not enter the level crossing as soon as the two red lights are flashing and/or the audible signal announcing the lowering of the barriers and the approach of a rail convoy is heard.

Level crossing with 2 half-barriers: 29 seconds (and 10 seconds after the entrance half-barriers are closed).

Level crossing with 4 half-barriers: 39 seconds (and 10 seconds after the entrance half-barriers are closed).

The duration increases considerably if a train stops between the point where the barrier release devices are located and the level crossing itself, e.g. a stop for passengers to leave or board the train.

For level crossings that are close to a station, the installation of induction loops is not always possible. This is due to the lack of distance between the level crossing and the induction loop announcing the arrival of the train. In this case, the operation of the barriers depends on the signal box or even the signal (entrance or exit) of the respective station.

The barriers close when a train passes the signalling device installed on the tracks. These are induction loops set up so that the barriers have enough time to close before the train reaches the level crossing at maximum speed. Activation of the warning devices triggers the flashing of the two red lights and the acoustic signal (gong or bell).

For level crossings located within a station, it is not always possible to set up announcement signals. In these cases, the level crossing is interdependent with the main signals. When a train route is created, the closure of the level crossing is initiated. The main signal is only set to drive when the closure of the barriers has been confirmed.

CFL staff guarding level crossings are not allowed to open the gates on their own initiative, even in case of urgent requests from motorists. Only when authorised by the train traffic controllers, responsible for train movements, is this action permitted.