UIC Leaflet 617-5: Design and Layout of Driving Cabs

What is UIC Leaflet 617-5?

UIC Leaflet 617-5 is a crucial technical standard titled “Tractive units – Design of driving cabs.” In the context of international rail traffic, Interoperability is not just a matter of wheels and rails, but also of human factors. If a driver from one country operates a locomotive from another, the control layout must be intuitive and standardized to prevent errors during critical maneuvers.

The leaflet provides the technical framework for the physical design of the cab, ensuring that Driving Cabs provide a safe, ergonomic, and efficient working environment. This standard was a primary contributor to the development of the TSI LOC&PAS (Technical Specifications for Interoperability for Locomotives and Passenger Rolling Stock).

Ergonomics and Human-Machine Interface (HMI)

UIC 617-5 places heavy emphasis on Ergonomics. It defines the “golden zones” for controls based on frequency of use and safety importance:

• Primary Controls: The master controller (traction/braking levers) and the emergency brake valve must be within the immediate reach of the driver in a seated position.
• Visual Displays: The placement of speedometer, signal displays (ETCS/ERTMS), and diagnostic screens must be within the driver’s central field of vision to minimize head movement.
• Reach Envelopes: Specifications for the physical distances between the driver’s seat and various switches, ensuring comfort for a wide range of body sizes (anthropometric data).

Visibility and Safety Requirements

To maintain Operational Safety, the leaflet mandates strict Visibility standards for the driver:

• External Vision: Specific angles of view to ensure the driver can see signals, trackside staff, and the track ahead, even in adverse weather.
• Windscreen Standards: Requirements for high-impact resistance (against birds or stones) and anti-glare/heating properties to ensure a clear view at all times.
• Acoustic Insulation: Maximum noise levels within the cab to prevent driver fatigue and ensure that audible warnings (like the “Deadman’s pedal” or AWS) can be clearly heard.

Internal Environment and Habitability

The standard also covers the habitability of the Rolling Stock cab, including:

• HVAC Systems: Standards for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to maintain a consistent temperature, preventing drowsiness or discomfort.
• Egress and Access: Safety requirements for cab doors and emergency exit routes for the driver.
• Lighting: Requirements for adjustable internal lighting to prevent reflections on the windscreen during night operations.

Comparison: Legacy Cabs vs. UIC 617-5 Standardized Cabs