What type of signal is used to govern the approach to a home signal?

The appropriate signal used to govern the approach to a home signal is a distant signal. In railway operations, a distant signal provides an indication to the engineer about the status of the home signal that is further along the track. The purpose of the distant signal is to inform the train crew whether to prepare for a stop at the upcoming home signal or if it will display a proceed indication.

When a distant signal shows a clear indication, it signals to the train crew that the home signal will likely be clear or show a permissive aspect, allowing them to continue without reducing speed. Conversely, if the distant signal displays a cautionary aspect, it alerts the train crew to slow down, as the home signal may indicate a stop or restricted speed.

The other types of signals mentioned, such as clear signals, intermediate signals, and stop indication signals, serve different purposes in railway operations. Clear signals indicate that a train may proceed without restriction, while intermediate signals provide information regarding signal aspects between the home signal and the train's location. Stop indication signals specifically instruct a train to halt, which does not govern the approach to a home signal but rather serves as an immediate directive to stop.