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by rexpress 2177 days ago
In the UK many crossings have full width barriers, and must be confirmed to be clear of road traffic after the barriers have closed before the protecting signal can be cleared for a train. These are effectively fail safe.

Confirmation comes from observation by a signaller or crossing operator either directly or by CCTV, or automatically by LiDAR and radar. These crossings tend to be used in areas of heavy road, pedestrian or rail movements, and when train speeds may exceed (from memory) 100 mph / 160 km/h.

Their disadvantage is additional installation, maintenance and operational costs. They must also be closed for longer before a train arrives than an automatic half-barrier crossing to allow for the required safety checks and ensure that signals are cleared far enough along the line that approaching trains do not need to slow down.