What is an RCO Zone?
A RCO zone is a specific area where remote control locos can operate. All trains going into this zone (while it is in operation) must contact the “conductor” of the job and ask permission to enter. Remotes are not supposed to leave these limits.
When a RCO zone is active, the RC operator does not have to protect the leading end of movement against other trains/engines/MOW, etc within the zone. If someone else is allowed to foul the zone, then any movement has to be protected. That’s why nothing is supposed to foul without the RCO’s permission.
RCOs can operate outside zones, at least ours can, but the movement must be protected on the leading end. Other RRs may be different.
Jeff
Ok, thanks for explaining.
RCO Zones are areas where a remote locomotive may operate without providing point protection. Regulations generally require any switches leading into the Zone be lined and locked to prevent entrance into the Zone, and any vehicle or pedestrian crossings be blocked. Once activated the Zone is under the absolute control of the RCO Foreman. No one, not the Yardmaster, Trainmaster, or Dispatcher can authorize movement into the Zone. Only the RCO Foreman the authority to authorize movement within his Zone.
RCO Locomotives may go anywhere in Remote Mode, provided the crew is qualified on the territory, and point protection is provided when outside the Zone.
Nick