Hand Point Switch Panels & Railway Control Panels

What Are Hand Point Switch Panels and Railway Control Panels?

Hand point switch panels are manually operated railway control panels used to change and indicate the position of points. The panel typically incorporates switches, Normal (N) and Reverse (R) indication and, where required, locking arrangements and other project-specific controls.

Depending on the railway project, these units may also be described as points panels, switch panels or control panels. The terminology can vary between infrastructure owners, contractors and signalling projects, but the purpose remains the same: providing local control and clear indication of manually operated railway points

The switch has two positions, N (Normal) and R (Reverse). With the points set to the N position, this is the position that the points are normally set in, so in this case, it is for the departure of trains along the main line.

Someone can then turn the switch to the R Position to change the direction of the points to allow trains to move in and out of the 9-13 sidings. These Hand Point Switch Panels also include LED Indicators to show the current position of the points.

Railway Control Panels for Hand-Operated Points

RSP’s railway control panels provide local control and indication for manually operated points. Designed and manufactured for individual project requirements, the panels can incorporate selector switches, Normal and Reverse indication, LED indicators, locking arrangements and terminal connections as required.

The control panel is housed within a robust enclosure suitable for railway environments and can be configured around the number of points and the required operating arrangement.

Whether specified as a hand point switch panel, points panel, switch panel or railway control panel, RSP can manufacture the enclosure and internal assembly to suit the application.

Key Features

RSP Hand Point Switch Panels are designed to meet the operational requirements of railway infrastructure operators and contractors. Features can include:

• Clear Normal (N) and Reverse (R) indication
• LED indication for enhanced visibility
• Robust weather-resistant enclosure designs
• Locking arrangements to support operational safety
• Custom switch and indication configurations
• Durable components suitable for harsh trackside environments
• Easy installation and maintenance
• Bespoke designs to suit project-specific requirements

Each panel can be tailored to the customer’s signalling and operational requirements.

Applications

Hand Point Switch Panels are commonly used across a wide range of railway environments, including:

• Freight Terminals
• Depots and Maintenance Facilities
• Sidings and Stabling Yards
• Industrial Rail Networks

Benefits of Hand Point Switch Panels

Improved Operational Safety

Clear indication of point position helps reduce the risk of incorrect route setting and provides confidence that points are correctly positioned before movements take place.

Reliable Operation

The simple design of hand point switch panels helps ensure dependable performance in demanding railway environments.

Cost-Effective Solution

For locations where powered point machines are unnecessary, hand point switch panels provide an economical alternative while maintaining safe operation.

Custom Built to Requirements

Every railway project presents unique operational challenges. RSP can design and manufacture hand point switch panels to meet specific customer requirements, ensuring the solution integrates seamlessly with the wider signalling system.

Designed and Manufactured in the UK

RSP designs and manufactures railway signalling products for use across the UK rail industry. Our hand point switch panels are built using proven components and can be configured to meet the requirements of infrastructure owners, principal contractors, signalling installers and rail operators.

From concept and design through to manufacture and testing, RSP works closely with customers to deliver solutions that meet project objectives while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hand point switch panel?

A hand point switch panel is a trackside panel used to indicate and control the position of manually operated railway points. It provides operators with confirmation that points are set correctly for the intended route.

Where are hand point switch panels used?

They are commonly installed in depots, freight terminals, sidings, maintenance facilities and industrial rail networks where manually operated points are used.

What is the difference between a hand point and a powered point?

A hand point is operated manually by railway staff, whereas a powered point uses an electrically or hydraulically driven point machine controlled from a signalling system.

Can hand point switch panels be customised?

Yes. RSP can provide bespoke configurations to meet specific project and operational requirements, including enclosure types, indication arrangements and switching configurations.

Do hand point switch panels require maintenance?

Like all railway signalling equipment, periodic inspection and maintenance are recommended to ensure reliable operation throughout the product’s service life.