A spring-loaded lever or grip built into the throttle or brake valve of older locomotives and transit cars. The operator must keep continuous physical pressure on the handle to keep the train moving. If the operator becomes incapacitated and lets go, the mechanism automatically cuts traction power and initiates a penalty brake application.
The spring on this dead man's handle is so stiff my wrist goes numb after an hour.
Newer locomotives replace this physical handle with an electronic alerter system that requires the engineer to periodically press a button to prove they are awake.
Related terms
Alerter
A cab safety device that applies the brakes if the engineer stops moving the controls or pressing its reset.
Automatic train control
A safety overlay system that enforces speed limits and signal indications without engineer input.
Locomotive
A self-propelled rail vehicle designed to provide the motive power for a train.