STATEMENT




FINDINGS: Carriers line between Boston Switch and South Worcester
is double track North from Boston Switch to Whipple and single
track from there to South Worcestor. It is automatic block
signal territory and at Whipple there is a spring switch and
a stop signal for northbound traffic.
Until January 20, 1959 operators were assigned at Whipple
5:15 A. M. to 1:15 P.M. and 1:15 P.M. to 9:15 P.M. Thereafter
the first shift position was abolished. There is one freight
train regularly operated northward during the hours of the
abolished trick. It operates on train order issued at Valley
Falls, stops for signal at Whipple where the conductor calls
the dispatcher from a pole box, as required by operating Rule
509, reports signal against him and, if advised there is no
opposing train in the block, proceeds at restricted speed.
It appears that regardless of the terminology used, there
is here a signal controlling entry into a block not actuated
automatically which requires approval of the dispatcher to
enter the block, or having train preceded by flagman. When
the procedure of contacting the dispatcher is utilized, the
result simply is the establishment of a manual block within
automatic block territory. This contact with the dispatcher

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          and clearance to proceed was and is handled by the operator when on duty and is work reserved to telegraphers under the circumstances shown.


A14ARD: Claim sustained.

                SPECIAL BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT N0. 306


                  /s/ Dudley E. Whiting

                  DUDLEY, E. WHITING, REFEREE


    /s/ Russell J. Woodman /s/ J. J. Duffy

RUSSELL J. WOODMAN, Employe Member J. J. DUFFY, Carrier Member

DATED: June 13, 1961

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