Rules for the Operation of Non-Steam Locomotives 2½-Inch Gauge and Larger

• Locomotives or their control cars are to have brakes capable of stopping the locomotive.
• A working headlight is required on the front of the locomotive for night running, with a projection of at least 25 feet. Locomotives operated on the multi-gauge loop are exempt from the distance requirement.
• Batteries must be securely mounted.
• Locomotives should have a means of disconnecting the batteries from the rest of the electrical system.
• All electrical connections must be secure and protected from short circuit.
• Liquid and LPG fuel engines are to be refueled only in designated areas.
• Fuel handling and storage: see appropriate fuel section.
• All fuel containers are to be stored in the approved areas.
• All locomotives using liquid fuels should have an appropriate fire extinguisher that is accessible to the engineer or conductor.
• Either couplers and safety chains, or drawbars, must be used between locomotives and trains. All safety chains must have welded links and have a minimum stock diameter of 0.110-inch. Trains operated on the multi-gauge loop may use smaller, appropriately sized chain.
• The attaching points for safety chains must be firmly mounted to the structure of each car and locomotive.
• It is recommended that all locomotives have a ‘dead-man’ type device.
• All moving mechanical drive components must be guarded.
• Internal combustion engines are to have a factory muffler. It’s recommended that the engine be made to run as quietly as possible.
• All locomotives are to have an operating horn or whistle.
• Locomotives must be maintained so that fluids do not leak on the railhead or walkways.
• PLS reserves the right to declare a locomotive unsafe for service and prohibit its use.

Approved by the PLS Membership August 21, 2004