---
kind: "range"
citation: "49 C.F.R. §§ 236.102–236.109"
title: "49"
from: "236.102"
to: "236.109"
count: 8
url: "https://uscodex.org/cfr/49/236.102..236.109"
---

# §236.102. Semaphore or searchlight signal mechanism.

- (a) Semaphore signal mechanism shall be inspected at least once every six months, and tests of the operating characteristics of all parts shall be made at least once every two years.
- (b) Searchlight signal mechanism shall be inspected, and the mechanical movement shall be observed while operating the mechanism to all positions, at least once every six months. Tests of the operating characteristics shall be made at least once every two years.

# §236.103. Switch circuit controller or point detector.


Switch circuit controller, circuit controller, or point detector operated by hand-operated switch or by power-operated or mechanically-operated switch-and-lock movement shall be inspected and tested at least once every three months.


# §236.104. Shunt fouling circuit.


Shunt fouling circuit shall be inspected and tested at least once every three months.


# §236.105. Electric lock.


Electric lock, except forced-drop type, shall be tested at least once every two years.


# §236.106. Relays.


Each relay, the functioning of which affects the safety of train operations, shall be tested at least once every four years except:

- (a) Alternating current centrifugal type relay shall be tested at least once every 12 months;
- (b) Alternating current vane type relay and direct current polar type relay shall be tested at least once every 2 years; and
- (c) Relay with soft iron magnetic structure shall be tested at least once every 2 years.

# §236.107. Ground tests.

- (a) Except as provided in [paragraph (b)](#b) of this section, a test for grounds on each energy bus furnishing power to circuits, the functioning of which affects the safety of train operation, shall be made when such energy bus is placed in service, and shall be made at least once every three months thereafter.
- (b) The provisions of this rule shall not apply to track circuit wires, common return wires of grounded common single-break circuits, or alternating current power distribution circuits grounded in the interest of safety.

# §236.108. Insulation resistance tests, wires in trunking and cables.

- (a) Insulation resistance of wires and cables, except wires connected directly to track rails, shall be tested when wires, cables, and insulation are dry. Insulation resistance tests shall be made between all conductors and ground, and between conductors in each multiple conductor cable, and between conductors in trunking, when wires or cables are installed and at least once every ten years thereafter.
- (b) Then insulation resistance of wire or cable is found to be less than 500,000 ohms, prompt action shall be taken to repair or replace the defective wire or cable and until such defective wire or cable is replaced, insulation resistance test shall be made annually.
- (c) In no case shall a circuit be permitted to function on a conductor having an insulation resistance to ground or between conductors of less than 200,000 ohms during the period required for repair or replacement.

# §236.109. Time releases, timing relays and timing devices.


Time releases, timing relays and timing devices shall be tested at least once every twelve months. The timing shall be maintained at not less than 90 percent of the predetermined time interval, which shall be shown on the plans or marked on the time release, timing relay, or timing device.