Owner: Aaron Fitzell
Last Updated: 2026-03-25
Version: 1.0
(have an idea for how this SOP could be better? Please fill out the Suggest Edit form at the very bottom of this procedure)
Procedure Info
Tags
railway crossing, level crossing, train, crossing, tracks, rail, boom gate, stop, railway, level crossing procedure
Purpose
To provide high-level guidance to driver around safely navigating railway crossings.
Being very deliberate with railway crossings is obviously important because of the clear danger that getting stopped on railroad tracks represents.
When to Use This SOP
This procedure should be internalised and mentally referenced any time a railway needs to be crossed in a Panorama passenger vehicle.
Who Should Use This SOP
This procedure is for any and all Panorama drivers.
Tools and Resources Needed
(List the equipment, tools, electronics or software needed to complete this procedure.)
Procedure
Mandatory Stop at Railway Crossings
Buses MUST stop at SIGNED railway crossings, even if no train is visible.
This includes rail crossings that do not have signals or boom gates, such as those found in rural and country areas.
1. Observe Signage
2. Stop is Required at Uncontrolled Crossings
You must stop, even when there are no signals flashing or lowered boom gates.
3. Proceed When Flashing Ceases AND All Appears Safe
- Proceed only when when red lights stop flashing and all appears safe.
- Do not proceed simply because the boom gates are up.
- Trust your eyes, not technology.
4. Account for Banked Traffic
- Be alert for banked up traffic ahead of you.
- Only proceed when there’s enough room for your bus to clear the crossing
- Don’t get stopped on the tracks!
5. No Shifting While Crossing
If driving a manual mini bus do not change gears while crossing.
Review Schedule and Change Log
| Version | Date | Author | Change Summary |
| 1.0 | 2026-03-25 | Joel Smith | Initial draft |