10 Things You Need To Know About Being A Train Driver - DAD RAIL

[@DadRail]

Sorry about the audio issues, I’ve got a new microphone setup coming soon!

[@TheMisterB2u]

Did 40 years on railway (footplate 38 yrs) and all you said is true!Hardest part for me and colleagues still in industry is that even after 30+ years- shift work won't change,and as you age it becomes harder.Imagine still setting alarm clock for 3am,doing nights or finishing at 2am.Some companies doing have a link for better social hours,but not always and it maybe only for a minority. These days it's a great job, excellent salary,days off ,35hour week,pension,full sick pay,so lots of positives there. Its well paid(took well paid) and be aware that after a few years you're trapped (become a lifer!) Although you have a skill, it's no good outside industry and no job is available for same money,so again if you're not liking it get out early! You can progress from train driving ,but only in a limited way i.e Driver manager, area manager,or go to work as instructor (training school),but they are office based more.Another way to get round boredom is of course to transfer to another company driving electric or freight trains.I enjoyed my career,but like any other always positives and negatives-just way them up in your own mind!

[@aidenbrewster4209]

I am a teenage man wanting to get that job, and I’m dedicated to being in your shoes

[@nyan525]

Speaking of fatalities, I've had 2 in my 9 years driving, last one was earlier this year. Its pretty unpleasant experience all in all, and definitely something that should be considered when thinking about becoming a driver, however its simply luck of the draw whether it happens to you, I know some drivers who've done 30+ years without one. Its definitely something that changes you and affects you for quite some time, but everyone reacts different.

[@DadRail]

Hey thanks for your message. I’m sorry to hear that. As you say it is luck of the draw. I hope you got the support you needed afterwards. I’ve not been involved in such an incident but can only begin to imagine how it must make you feel

[@nyan525]

@@DadRail cheers mate, support of fellow drivers and messroom banter is probably the best medicine, as for most unpleasant railway stuff

[@ChangesOneTim]

@Nyan My thoughts are with you and any driver who has had to endure this experience. Twenty or so years ago, fatalities became a hot topic in interviews for jobs involving the Paddington-Slough section of the GWML, which had (if not still has) one third of all incidents on the national network.

[@nyan525]

@@ChangesOneTim thanks mate, a stretch of my route is apparently worst in the entire country for trespass incidents, probably has a lot to do with the seemingly high amount of fatalities on my patch

[@ChangesOneTim]

@@nyan525 Indeed it is luck of the draw. Among a couple of other factors, Paddn-Slough has a higher-than-average concentration of mental health facilities within a short distance. The railway has done fantastic work with the Samaritans and other organisations, put in various trespass-resistant measures with enhanced patrols and CCTV etc which have had some effect. So true that nothing really prepares people. There are ex-military guys who served in Ulster/ Afghanistan/ Bosnia etc taking on the driving role in civvy street, then one day finding themselves involved in a fatality after which PTSD etc conditions can emerge.

[@zaink7037]

Greatful to say i got my contract for a trainee mainline driver position. Cant wait to start my training soon and learn about it. I have been binge watching yours and other train videos. Hope training and thr career goes well.

[@peterstorey8158]

Overall another very good insight about what our job really involves. One aspect you didn't mention fully Richard was the very close monitoring of train drivers, especially passenger men. Everything you touch in the cab is recorded, your speeds, your use of power, use of the horn, approach to stations and stop signals etc. It's all related to the route you are driving over and can therefore be correlated exactly to the position on the ground of the train. These recordings are downloaded regularly and gone through with a fine toothcomb to make sure your driving is as safe as it can be. Any anomalies are recorded on your record and as you said Richard any hint that you are not complying with the approved driving techniques will soon result in you losing your job. This can put immense pressure on drivers which is little commented upon. There is a very good reason the job pays well these days - it's not as easy as it looks.

[@DadRail]

Thanks Peter. That’s a very good point, and one that warrants its own video.

[@TheMisterB2u]

Managers not all ,are more interested in nit picking downloads i.e doors not open long enough,1 mph over speed,brake handle positions,etc it's very top heavy with managers and taking notes on computer,but to be fair industry has changed as rail inspectorate dictate more stringent monitoring!

[@ChangesOneTim]

@@TheMisterB2u Very true in that, thanks to today's safety regulation regime, train company 'driver competency management systems' only pass muster with lots of announced and unannounced monitoring and various 'interventions' for what used to be regarded as pretty minor transgressions in the old days. Signalling centres have had downloadable voicecomms recorders since before on-train data recorders were made mandatory, so signallers are monitored more stringently these days too. In managing this sort of thing, there'll always be some individuals over-zealously applying the relevant standards!

[@georgericher3996]

So it should be !! But they aren't going to be scrutinising that information it goes on a database surley..

[@dad_details2118]

For the most part, I agree with your points but I'd never say it's a dead-end job. We stay in the seat because it's the safest and easiest place to be. However, should you want to progress there are so many opportunities 👍

[@TheMisterB2u]

Dead end is not really the word to use, people have different opinions on what that would constitute for them personally.

[@ExplodingPiggy]

Becoming management is what happens to people who can't hack it! You can become a DI but it's a pain in the arse for not enough money.

[@brianburns7211]

One other potential is to become a union officer. That’s been my progression.

[@paulm2467]

@@ExplodingPiggy I’m a DI and I enjoy it, it’s the variety that breaks up the routine of driving, the satisfaction that you get when your trainee becomes competent and passes out and the occasional easy days when you’re teaching or assessing over a new route.

[@ExplodingPiggy]

@@brianburns7211 for the rest days? 🫢

[@desirodriver6651]

An accurate account of the job. Listen to Richard! 😄 I knew what I was getting into having worked in 2 London stations in various roles for 15 years. But not everyone can get to see what the job is like before trying it. Train Simulator videogame doesn't prepare you for 3am wakeups!. You have to have the skills required to do the job, not just because you like trains. Another example I think of is a librarian has to be good at sorting, order, filing, and custoner service, but not because they like reading books!

[@DadRail]

Thanks so much, love your librarian example

[@letrainavapeur]

Some interesting points for those young enough to consider a career as a train driver. The points about shift work are well described, I had 43 years working shifts in a power station where if your shift was rostered to work 12 hour nights on Christmas day, then that's what you did, hopefully next year you would be off. The high points of shift work. At 0700 on a wet Tuesday morning, after four 12 hour night shifts, going home and seeing all those miserable faces on their way to work, and you not having to work until the following Monday. Most people seem to think that shift workers are a bit simple actually wanting to do it, the 22% shift allowance went a long way to making you happy

[@DadRail]

That most definitely is a highlight of shift work. Sometimes having blocks of RDs and having time off mid week can be a huge plus. Me and the wife have had a few weekends away, mid week during blocks of RDs and the prices are obviously much lower in the week. So not all bad.

[@sameyers2670]

I'm a coach driver and have been working on the buses/coaches for over 14 years and a lot of what you say holds true for thar industry as well.

[@chris-ryan]

Train driving was my dream job growing up, I fell into Software engineering and am now stuck due to golden handcuffs.

[@DadRail]

Loving the phrase golden handcuffs :-)

[@tito_le_burle]

I'm in exactly the same situation as you! I am studying computer engineering and i would like to become a train engineer but the thought of being able to have a better salary torments me and I dont really know what to do :(

[@DadRail]

@@tito_le_burle you need to be happy long term. If you will be happy in software then go for it. You could always look at volunteering at a heritage railway in your spare time. I’m not sure what a software engineer earns, but some drivers in my company earn between 80-100k when overtime is taken into account. Our base contract is 35 hours over a 4 day week averaged out over a year. I’m not sure how the hours and salary compare.

[@chris-ryan]

@@tito_le_burle you've still choices, I'm Not saying anything bad about software engineering, I've had a good 15 years in the industry, but If you cannot shake the itch to pursue train driving then go for it. Salary only becomes an issue when you start adjusting to it and buying bigger and more expensive things, trust me, that won't make you happy, some of those things ( like your house or car) will keep to you tied to your job to pay for them.

[@paulm2467]

It’s not unusual for people to come to train driving later in life as a second career, I know one who was a high flyer in banking, took redundancy in the crisis and has been a very good driver since, passing out about 10 years ago, he’d always fancied it, was financially stable and could probably have retired then. He was around 51/2 so he’s coming up for retirement now but he’s loved every minute of his train driving experience and hasn’t had the boredom problem common to 30/40 year career drivers of the same age.

[@jimhamilton8775]

Just discovered your channel. I am a retired railwayman. I noticed that you did not mention the aptitude tests. That is the first hurdle to becoming a train driver.. I look forward to viewing more videos.

[@chibuzookereke4101]

Please did you know any company I can join I live in Los Angeles California I want to drive train

[@iknowyoureright8564]

Buy the rostering clerk a bottle of wine every Christmas……does wonders when you are looking for leave at short notice.

[@MitchDenham]

The company I work for is brilliant (passenger), though our Unions have fought hard for our benefits. Maximum 9hr shifts (unless an “Emergency Situation” has been declared), minimum 12hrs off between shifts, maximum 11 shifts in a row - however you do need at least 2 days off in a fortnight. As well as 5 consecutive days off in a row every 6 weeks. We work 2 weeks of earlies, 72hrs off minimum, then 2 weeks of lates. However, many drivers will swap onto their preferred and have months of link workings ahead swapped. I genuinely prefer shift work to 9-5 M-F. While some shifts suck (currently on a 21:05 Wash card), on the whole, it’s great. On the whole though, I agree with everything you’ve said. I’ve only been a qualified driver for 4 months, and at 29yo I’m looking down another 20+ years, there isn’t really any career progression. Which is fine, mostly 😅

[@DadRail]

Hi Mitchell thanks for your comment, congratulations on getting your key. Your terms sound pretty good but unfortunately not all companies are the same, it’s worth checking for sure. I left pretty reasonable terms and stability to work on freight as I got bored of passenger work. Our terms aren’t as good but for me the job is much more interesting and rewarding. It all depends on what you want from the job. Passenger work is definitely better for terms and conditions no argument from me.

[@AstonL3]

Which union do you work for mitchell

[@crowntownmassive]

Very much enjoyed this video, been on the railway for 9 years and a driver for 3, I can relate to every point raised and agree with you’re thoughts, great video 😊

[@DadRail]

Thank you, I tried to be honest but not to negative because despite everything it’s still a great job

[@hboss9436]

Being a passenger train driver in Australia shift work and fatigue management is defiantly the hardest thing to manage

[@DadRail]

Somebody said in a different comment, we work the same job on opposite sides of the world but the challenges we face are identical

[@ethanstransportvlogs45]

i know someone that works for metro trains melbourne and he has experienced the fatalities part multiple times. they give their workers a lot of support, which includes 4 weeks paid leave and free therapy

[@motorman1989]

When you have a job like this for the first 5 to 8 years, you have no social life at all. I know I done it for 22 years like he said don’t plan no social life unless it’s on your days off. And I have to say he does speak the truth. I’ve done it for New York City transit.

[@Maaxo1995]

I’ve just applied for driver role love your videos great help fingers crossed 😅

[@AndrzejC]

Hi, how are things going? Did you apply for apprenticeship or any training before to get into the role?

[@OfficiallyCharles]

Excellent video as per usual Richard!

[@DadRail]

Thank you :-)

[@Thomas1980]

Very nice Video! Thumbs Up and Greetings

[@DadRail]

Thank you and greeting to you too.

[@arsytee]

Great videos thank Richard. I currently work for an emergency service but have applied for the trainee train driver role, finding your channel has been such a help, just wish I found it sooner. I also live and work in Hastings, assessment day is tomorrow, wish me luck!

[@DadRail]

Hey sorry I’ve just seen this. How did it go?

[@Rowan66109]

How did it go?

[@arsytee]

@@Rowan66109 sadly I failed in the afternoon session. They don't say why. It was the session where you have to watch the train going round the stations and then press the button when there's any deviation.

[@clague2337]

This is my plan for the far future. Ive always said I would like to be a train driver and I definitely do. I would like to live out my life have fun pick up some small jobs ect. And then in the far future I would definitely want to be a train driver. 😊

[@terrier_productions]

thank you, DR that was very helpful! I am planning to do EMR's level 3 train driver apprenticeship once I've finished six form in 2023 and then hopefully apply as a driver for EMR..

[@DadRail]

No problem. Good luck with it!

[@Chooky88]

Thanks for including some cons to the job. Appreciated.

[@Andrewjg_89]

Very good informative video. Becoming a train driver does sound so exciting but also it comes with so many risks. But great video.

[@DadRail]

Thanks for watching

[@Andrewjg_89]

😁

[@chrishoggett1375]

Glad to see my comment on the previous video helped create this one. These things really need to be pointed out. Only last week at the depot I was talking with a couple of colleagues, one recently lost his dad, the other went through a divorce a couple of years ago, we were saying many people don’t realise how hard it is to be alone in the cab for hours, especially when things run smoothly and your mind wonders, when you are struggling with some issues you are left alone with your mind too long.

[@DadRail]

Thanks Chris, I actually went back and added a few bits in following your comments and that of other drivers.

[@Jenny-nz5fh]

Thanks for reminding me about the shift work. A few of us at work were considering applying in Australia, but there is no way I could cope with the shifts. Once again, thanks.

[@toffeefan1971]

Thanks for this Richard, I have just recently decided that I really fancy becoming a train driver so it’s good to weigh up the pros and cons. Cheers

[@snafufubar]

Job boring? Boring is good. When things get exciting is when things are going wrong. 22 years driving and I love boring days.

[@DJRyanJamesUK]

You know thanks for the truthful observations! Im an enthusiast and always wanted to be a driver, to be honest the older I got the more I realised I maybe dont want to do it. So I think I want to become a train manager or guard in old money 😀

[@TravelJackJourneys158]

Brilliant videos as always I like the cut away shots and next time be careful with the shaver and a hope a Heath & Safety form was filled in

[@DadRail]

Thanks Jack, did you not see it before as you had early access as a patron?

[@TravelJackJourneys158]

@@DadRailI did notice to be honest and I thought I shall put something when it comes public

[@markotoole7937]

Thanks for the videos, it's really helpful to see what it's actually like and the shift rosters. DRV2 looks like hell to me!

[@Johnny16781]

Nice one Richard another good one 😀

[@daveflavell4408]

Brilliant, nice one Richard great insight into the industry 👍

[@DadRail]

Thank you

[@loveyoursoul32]

You are such a wonderful soul, I would love to be your friend. I hope you are appreciated.

[@airspeed_alive]

Finally a yt suggestion that was meaningful, nice vid thanks

[@DadRail]

No worries thanks for watching.

[@jackminiaturetrains6627]

Really cool mate I think I’m going to stick to 5 inch though!😂

[@kamana6435]

Great video concise and very useful. It’s hard job to do but very rewarding I imagine. Maybe you could mentioned the type of aptitude test you need to complete as I hear these are very challenging. TOC need to ensure you can stay concentrated for long periods.

[@DadRail]

Thank you. The aptitude test constitutes a video of its own and is on my list

[@drworm_182]

very good video thank you.

[@motivated2connect]

I’m so ready for this! No more family responsibilities and ready to relocate to make this dream come true 🎉 Any help to gain a traineeship in Australia for freight trains would be greatly appreciated.

[@ChangesOneTim]

Great videos! Very true you cannot hope to cover everything, and so much varies depending on company and its type of operation...and of course each person's take on good and bad in the job is different.

[@DadRail]

Thank you

[@chibuzookereke4101]

Please did you know any company I can join that can train me I live in Los Angeles California

[@ChangesOneTim]

@@chibuzookereke4101 I've no idea. Search online, see who's recruiting and register your details with companies that do job alerts. Good luck🤞

[@mrhaggit]

very helpful video dad rail, enjoyed it and is very informative. thank you

[@DadRail]

No worries glad you enjoyed it

[@wainber1]

The 13:18 mark of the video mentions how a SPAD doesn't necessarily result in disciplinary action. Yet the Florida-based Distant Signal KZbin man claimed that American freight rail company CSX didn't play around with SPADs, with such incidents' having up to then meant at a minimum the immediate relieving of duties of the relevant train crew (within the 1st 20 seconds of the video titled "How To Read Signals On The CSX Part 5 - ABS Signals").

[@DadRail]

SPADS are extremely serious and the driver will be relived of driving duties Immediately and most likely screened for drugs and alcohol. The cause of the incident will be fully investigated and where required the driver will be given an action plan and/or additional trading before being allowed back to work. The whole experience is centred around acknowledging that as humans we make mistakes and each mistake is a learning opportunity. It’s the same model as used in aviation. If a driver is having many incidents or the driver was blatantly disregarding rules or procedures then disciplinary action would be the correct course, but in the case of a genuine mistake understanding and personal development creates a better culture within the industry.

[@pigandbob]

Great video Richard!

[@DadRail]

Thank you

[@mrgt3201]

Good video, a few of the things apply to my job as a hgv driver. They're just part of the job. I find because you're going from place to place it never drags like say working in a warehouse or an office. By the way it's lose not loose. Yes I know I'm pedantic, I can't help myself.

[@DadRail]

It wouldn’t be a Dad Rail video without some sort of a spelling error :-) your right about the going from place to place. It’s a different mindset you are not clock watching, rather you are focused on a goal.

[@mrgt3201]

@@DadRail am I just ignorant of the job of a train driver or are there quite a few transferable skills from truck driving ?

[@desirodriver6651]

@@mrgt3201 most definitely transferable skills. One of the guys that was on my trainee driver course was an ex-HGV driver.

[@Welshy98]

Start my course in January :D

[@DadRail]

Well done and good luck!

[@Maniacguy2777]

Sir I love all your videos pls don't stop making great videos. I would love you to see reviewing trains on movies like debriefing trains in movies.

[@DadRail]

That’s an interesting idea :-)

[@Maniacguy2777]

@@DadRail I get inspired of all your videos. There's no youtuber's channel who has the train driver profession like you sir Richard that you explain everything bout trains. But sir there are things that doesn't get bored of watching beautiful views when driving the train isn't it beautiful? I wish to be friends with you and have great conversation with you directly. So that I could get more knowledge's from you. 😂

[@DadRail]

You can contact me directly via discord discord.gg/Sae6AMJ7

[@Maniacguy2777]

@@DadRail wow sir oneday your son is gonna be the next train driver. It's lovely seeing him learning from you. 😊

[@maorigirl5374]

Very informative

[@petr-to3mv]

I used to work as a train driver in Russian railways company. I earned 600$ a month. Good job, but conditions is extremely bad, at least in Russia

[@DadRail]

Its a good job here in the UK. the conditions and pay used to be bad but people and unions have battled for better pay and conditions.

[@Eyeslayer]

your description of the impact on social life and sleep sounds like being a swing shift nurse one of the worse positions to be in i hated being on call for a lengthy time you could go multiple times with little sleep it sucked.

[@Noobmaster-kh9wl]

I know of one freight company that does have rostered work over a 13 week period with rostered jobs, spare and rest days 😉

[@DadRail]

I’m guessing the green team on intermodal services?

[@thebagfather4633]

great vid .sounds fun but il stick to train sim world 3 and keep my day job..

[@timbarnes2259]

£60,000 a year plus as a train driver.. £19,000 a year working 12 hour shifts in a factory on your feet.. £22,000 a year as s driver operator on a bus, you won't be bored as a bus driver operator in London.. Are you a 'nimbie"..

[@hazel7256]

So wish I could become a driver but colourblindness says otherwise

[@LordEverythingtrains]

What would happen if you were scheduled to drive a train, but a train you didn't know how to drive turned up? For example, if you were scheduled to drive a class 375 service, but a class 465 turned up, and you didn't know how to drive a class 465, what would happen?

[@dad_details2118]

You can only drive the route/traction you sign

[@LordEverythingtrains]

@@dad_details2118 ok

[@dad_details2118]

Naturally, you would have to let the relevant persons know (signaller/control) if all the stars are aligned they could do a stock change but generally never that efficient

[@mikeuk1954]

Always wanted to become a Train driver but unfortunately I'm colour blind. 😔

[@franktuckwell196]

Whilst driving trains for what was BRITISH RAIL, there were about six of us called into a management meeting because of the amount of outstanding leave we had accrued. With the threat of 'Use It Or Lose It', we were told just that. Result, we all put in for leave for every day where we possibly could. Of course this resulted in a massive file of LEAVE DECLINED, NO COVER. Each refusal was photocopied, highlighted and put in my file. When called back and told we had forfeited our leave, files were produced and after a brief glance i was asked what i wanted to do? I knew they wouldn't read very carefully, otherwise they would have tumbled that most dates were impossible. The result was that i had February off on full pay, whilst my workmates drove in some of the worst snowstorms for several years, i sat at home in the warm. When it came to the first interview and the question was asked, "How will you react if somebody decides to jump in front of your train?", the honest answer given was "I don't know". Over the years, saw plenty of body bits on tracks and on trains, not pleasant, but part of the job.

[@DadRail]

Somethings never change with annual leave :-)

[@alexready481]

Hello Richard! I was a train driver in Moscow underground. Please tell us more about the cases when a train hits a person. Who should remove the body from under the train? Does the train driver do this, or are there special emergency services for this? Thanks for your videos and good luck on your journey!

[@DadRail]

Hi Alex. In the UK the emergency services will deal with this. It is not the drivers responsibility

[@aidenvideos499]

Lose not loose, right?

[@thomasm1964]

When I watch old British Transport films, they often show the guard or stationmaster or other official telling the driver how many carriages/wagons they have on and the gross weight. Question: does knowing a number really affect the way a driver handles his train and, if so, how? I mean, is 550 tons really that different from 600 tons, for example? What does a driver intentionally do different for given train lengths / weights? Just realised I forgot to add the obvious: I learn a lot from watching these videos! I have just learned WHY a top link driver is so-called. Never realised a link was actually part of a roster hierarchy until tonight.

[@DadRail]

Great question. Yes on a freight train knowing what weight you’ve got on and how many carriages is vital. Heavy and long trains handle completely different. We now get given a tops list that contains all the information we need. This would actually make a good video!

[@thomasm1964]

@@DadRail I’d love to see how it all works and how a driver adapts his driving! Also, presumably fully-fitted freights of today are far easier to manage than the old loose coupled freights so drivers of yesteryear would have had even more to take into account. How did they do that?

[@DadRail]

I’ve never driven an unfitted train, but imagine you are correct. I believe there were rules in place requiring the guard to wind on the parking brake in the brake van before steep gradients and things like that. I’ll have a word with some of the senior drivers and see what I can find out.

[@thomasm1964]

@@DadRail kzbin.info/www/bejne/naO0gmOwe5aLndk

[@richardwarhurst6434]

I’m definitely a new boy. Any chance of a video on how on earth you use CMS? 😂

[@cassandrafolmar8968]

I want to drive a locomotive.

[@billmmckelvie5188]

It would be interesting to note how many opportunities as a freight driver, you receive to work passenger charters and whether you have had the privilege (depending on how you perceive them either a bag of spanners or completely reliable!) of driving the late BR motive power (Including GBRF's version of the Evening Star)

[@DadRail]

I’ve driven most of GBs 66s. I’ve not done any passenger charters since starting on the freight as I lost my class 1 competency but there will be opportunities to get it back in the future. Charters have been limited because of COVID but next year is looking good.

[@DadRail]

I’ve driven most of GBs 66s. I’ve not done any passenger charters since starting on the freight as I lost my class 1 competency but there will be opportunities to get it back in the future. Charters have been limited because of COVID but next year is looking good.

[@DadRail]

I’ve driven most of GBs 66s. I’ve not done any passenger charters since starting on the freight as I lost my class 1 competency but there will be opportunities to get it back in the future. Charters have been limited because of COVID but next year is looking good.

[@billmmckelvie5188]

@@DadRail Tx

[@mata2618]

Would having people on a fixed shift pattern not alleviate the issues that train drivers experience with their personal lives and wellbeing

[@robhardie6687]

It might for some, but then others would complain that they've got the 'worse' shifts. Also in freight work some work will be seasonal so it still wouldn't be that consistent

[@TheMisterB2u]

So who covers the shifts nobody wants and what if to many people want the same shift?

[@dad_details2118]

It's been done and proven to work. I've done permanent nights, late's and earlies over the years. Staff are alot happier and do that bit more in my experience

[@lukecapone7227]

Good video, only I think you didn’t speak enough about was travelling to work and from work.

[@DadRail]

Thank you, yeah i maybe could have emphasised that point a bit more and how that contributes to fatigue

[@TheMusicalElitist]

As much as I love trains, having worked for a train operator - even just in the office - I don't think I could actually be a train driver. Yes the salary is amazing, but the mental and physical toll on my health wouldn't be worth it - especially being neurodivergent i.e. someone who needs routine.

[@DadRail]

It can be mentally challenging sometimes and the shift work can be difficult. We do have a large number of neurodiverse staff of all grades including drivers.

[@jdavis460]

Looks like you are doing a 4 day week I worked a roster 8 weeks on 2 weeks off and boy did you look forward to that 2 weeks off. (45 years train driving)

[@DadRail]

I bet! Wow that’s crazy

[@jewelsgleaming401]

I want to get into train driving but fatalities are my only concern. I don’t need any more trauma in my life.

[@carey4490]

This seems like a stupid question but can you stand when you drive? I'm a physical therapist and need a change in career but i know the issues with sitting that long in your pudendal nerve. Can you choose to stand every now and then? 😊 thank you

[@piledriverpotter9847]

The first thing you need to do to be a train driver is be a Labour voter and be the only people to think the sun shines out of Starmer to be on 80 grand a year. The second is to have a conscience and think about those poor pensioners who are going to freeze to death without their winter fuel allowance so you could earn 80 grand a year.

[@chopchop3621]

Hello. Please can you help me on the starting process for a train driver. How do I go about it? I've been looking everywhere and it's definitely my kind of work. Thank you

[@dc2230]

Really enjoy the videos and information! I live quite close to where a foot crossing is on one of SE's lines (Hastings line) . I always hear them sounding their horns for the crossing. Almost all of the time when they do this they only use one of the tones. Is there a reason for this instead of using both tones or is it just a SE thing? Thanks 😎

[@DadRail]

It’s actually in the rule book that at whistle boards you should sound a low tone only. A lot of drivers sound both though.

[@kharkhov]

What was that 66 doing in Crowborough??

[@PaulFallows-j5s]

Can you use an ecig when driving the trains

[@sirmagnumcat4996]

What’s been your favourite train you’ve driven?

[@DadRail]

Class 73. She is a beautiful raw machine. No computers or TMS. Driver her properly and it’s very rewarding.

[@ChangesOneTim]

@@DadRail Mate of mine took his grand old retirement from a green-coloured intermodal operator at the same time it let go many of its Class 86s, as "anything after them doesn't need to be *properly driven* - just move the power controller and let electronics do the rest. Bloody boring by comparison".🤣 Hard not to agree!

[@DadRail]

@@ChangesOneTim That's so true of most modern stock. 73s are similar in operation to an 86, you actually need to drive them.

[@stephenmatura1086]

Will I be able to work from home? Sorry, couldn't resist!

[@DadRail]

If you've got a big enough driveway :-)

[@TheMisterB2u]

Many freight train drivers do work from home and get there duties e-mailed to them.

[@ChangesOneTim]

@@TheMisterB2u Haha, work out of home as a base as opposed to signing on and off duty at a yard/ depot.

[@AstonTatton]

Hi I have been invited to a assessment day in Watford for a job on the Brighton to London route what should I expect. Or any advice please.

[@jay-xo9dx]

What do you do about train travel with you no longer being entitled to free travel?

[@DadRail]

Same as everybody else, buy a ticket.

[@pratikbikramkc1454]

Hello,Can a immigrant be a train driver .if yes what is the requirements? Thank you

[@JintySteam1]

I tried applying for platform dispatch staff with EMR recently, but sadly they didn't take me on.

[@DadRail]

That’s a shame. Did you ask for feedback?

[@TheMisterB2u]

Don't be put off,try other companies or get feedback and try again at later date.

[@produKtNZ]

Are you able to provide any insight with being a train driver with freight?

[@DadRail]

Check back through the previous videos and you will find I have covered that already.

[@Gigachad-mc5qz]

Is there any way to get around shift work? I couldnt take it

[@Keyaans_Photography]

How dare those drivers say that stuff to us trainspotters!

[@DadRail]

From my experience freight companies are more spotter friendly :-) I think it’s great that so many young people are interested in the railway. Train spotting is alive and well and long may it continue :-)

[@Certiwhipps]

Most jobs I've seen in London want me to live very close to central London which I can't do since all my family is south and at least an hour's drive away from the depots. Is there any jobs I can do on south London etc?

[@DadRail]

I think there are drives depots at Selhurst, Grove Park, Orpington, and Wimbledon to mention but a few.

[@Certiwhipps]

@@DadRail yeah selhurst and Wimbledon are closed to me thanks, I live in Sutton so.. But again I can't a train company apprenticeship that can train me for a year near me aswell, the training apprenticeships I've found are also in central London. Is there someplace I can do my apprenticeship local to me? Thanks

[@inyenepromise2973]

Please can recommend schools for international students. Thanks

[@DadRail]

There are no train driver schools. You need to apply to a train company directly. You can not learn to become a train driver privately

[@inyenepromise2973]

@@DadRail thanks.

[@inyenepromise2973]

A career path in railway, can I start from conductor, or any better recommendation, have never work in a railway industry. Thanks

[@DadRail]

You can start from conductor or shunter or platform staff. It doesn’t matter where you start

[@TheSaint491]

Hey Richard, where would one go to get the ever critical psychometrics test done to progress into train driving/management? Currently looking into network rail to progress into driving

[@DadRail]

I’m not sure you can arrange it yourself, I think you have to be put forward by a TOC/FOC

[@bobert6523]

Hi, are train drivers expected to stay sober when not working?

[@DadRail]

You can drink in your spare time, but must not report for duty under the influence. It can take several hours for alcohol to leave your system so you have to think about how much and when you are drinking.

[@Shannonbarnesdr1]

can someone in their 40s who is in good health get training in and get hired ?

[@DadRail]

Absolutely, no problem with that at all

[@simmon81au]

41 here and just signed up for a traineeship in Australia

[@mrfust]

What’s the correct invite code for your Discord server?

[@DadRail]

discord.gg/Sae6AMJ7 give that one a go

[@mrfust]

@@DadRail That one worked- thanks 👍🏻

[@leeshepherd3899]

Hey man, after a bit of advice. I'm a driver with a suburban toc and local intercity/suburban toc is recruiting. It's a slight pay drop Sundays in vs Sundays out. But I crave variety as I have a tiny route and sign a single traction. Your opinion on route v financial?

[@paulm2467]

It’s easy to make up money if you get every Sunday worked as o/t and it gives you a lot more flexibility at the weekends. A tiny route and single traction is a recipe for boredom and that can lead to mistakes and unhappiness. I would apply for the more interesting work as long as the financial difference isn’t very large and that intercity/mainline experience gives you the opportunity to move to one of the highest paid tocs. I’m a DI and that’s the other way to go because it breaks up the shift pattern with periods of training and teaching.

[@DadRail]

I left my last company partly because of limited route and traction. If you can cope with the financial loss then go for it. What price do you put on Job Satisfaction?

[@togaoitb7121]

Hey Richard, I’m starting my passenger train driver course next year. Atm I have no knowledge about trains or how the rail works. How hard would you rate being able to pass the course? Thank you Tiago

[@DadRail]

You will be fine. The course is designed for people with no railway knowledge and generally speaking railway training is excellent. Most of the the course will be modular assessments with a final assessment at the end. You will need to revise your notes at home but anything your not sure of ask the trainers to go through it again. You have made it this far so you can be confident that you’ve got what it takes! Good luck 🤞

[@togaoitb7121]

@@DadRail when I’ve started my application I’ve looked for info and videos and I’ve watched most of your videos. So much info that I got through you. Thank you so much! Keep doing what you do

[@DadRail]

No worries happy to share what I can. I also learn so much from reading peoples comments on my videos. I’m really pleased you found them useful

[@TheMisterB2u]

Try looking online,as a lot of info there,you can even download rules and regs!

[@togaoitb7121]

@@TheMisterB2u cheers for that

[@simonwhitlock9189]

Between the shift work messing with your sleep the tiredness boredom and stress I am amazed that the newspapers aren't reporting rail accidents every day, good for you with dealing with it all I know I couldn't.

[@DadRail]

Fatigue management is probably one of the hardest parts of the job. It’s certainly not your normal 9-5

[@AW-kr9fl]

Agree definitely with respect is earned. No one said much to me at all until I passed out, then all of a sudden other drivers got chatty. There is certainly a seniority hierarchy on the railway

[@kevinstaddon8517]

Seems like the reverse now. When I started driving (After 10 years on BR) the old hand wouldn't speak, now it's the younger ones who hardly speak.

[@darrentownsend8571]

im currently at stage 4 of a 6 stage application process - my Grandad worked on the Railways for over 40 years and my brother currently works on the Railways Holland. I honestly cant wait, just wish id done it sooner! ( fingers crossed)

[@VillaCUBANA-jl9om]

Finish 7am Sunday back for Early Turn what Roster is that

[@covidwasacon]

Its basically the same as bus driving but better pay and hours and easier

[@DadRail]

Ive never driven a bus, but I can imagine a lot of the NTS required are very similar.

[@Red-tm1bs]

Congratulations for the most ridiculous comment you're likely to see on KZbin!

[@lutN]

I aspire to be a train operator in a few years time and I really recommend your content to others who do, Thank you Richard 🙌

[@DadRail]

No problem, glad your enjoying the videos and thanks for recommending. Good luck for the future!

[@simmon81au]

Just signed up for a traineeship myself

[@mohammedmalik2348]

@@simmon81au did u require any previous qualification to apply?

[@shimauma9577]

Appreciate your videos. I have just passed selection for passenger train driver in Australia, waiting for a place in the training school. Your videos are full of good information that is otherwise hard to find.

[@DadRail]

Thanks Steven, good luck with the training. If you would be interested in sharing your experiences we have a staff diary section in the discord server. Would be great to have you onboard. Let me know your thoughts.

[@shimauma9577]

@@DadRail yes il have a look, what is the "discord server" ?

[@akoola7853]

You just described the daily life of a paramedic on a busy ambulance station. I NEVER planned anything. If I could get to a function, it was a bonus. I preferred nights because I got the best sleep during the day. As for Christmas... I worked either one day, night or lates, sometimes the whole period, for twelve years in a row. It was only after leaving the service did I have a full Christmas off. I HATE nine to five work though. Shift work is tough at times but at least there were periods when you got good time off. People would say, 'You're always off.' It might seem like that but while they were sucking their thumbs in a nice warm bed in mid winter, I was freezing my butt off working through the night. Money wasn't as good as a train driver though. Some guys left to drive trains. I preferred the diversity of work. No two jobs were the same and you could find yourself anywhere... even being winched onto a boat from a helicopter.

[@assistingyou_]

Thanks for the video, im just wondering about a few things as a driver... What would a typical day look like from start to finish? Between stops can you get off the train and smoke/vape take a 2 minute break? While driving between stops can you do anything? Some quiet music, vape, check your phone breifly between long stops? Maybe take something like dumbells or something where you can still use the necessary controls and arent distracted? Also if not what would be the dangers of doing so? Im asking because to my understanding a train takes a long time to stop or come to a total holt so avoiding something completely would be difficult, the main benefit would be damage control (I.e if a car was on the tracks it would be better to hit it at 20mph than 40mph Thanks

[@elizabethmh_465]

03:35 is at my rugby club in Tonbridge