What does the term 'Interlocking' refer to?

The term 'Interlocking' specifically refers to a safety system for train movement. This system is crucial in railroad operations as it ensures that conflicting train movements are prevented. Interlocking uses signals and switches to control the routes that trains can take, allowing for safe passage through junctions and crossings. By coordinating the actions of signals and track switches, interlocking systems work to avoid accidents that could occur if trains were allowed to travel onto the same track at the same time or if signals did not reflect the proper status of the track ahead. This enhances overall operational safety and efficiency within railway networks.

In contrast, signaling train directions pertains to the communication of specific train movements, track layouts are physically oriented designs of railroad tracks, and managing train schedules focuses on the timing and coordination of train arrivals and departures. While these elements are integral to successful railroad operations, they do not encapsulate what interlocking specifically refers to within the railway safety framework.