Bracket signals were used to place signals into a suitable place for clear observation by the drivers of approaching trains in two main locations.
Locations where the signal post culd not be located directly alongside the line, for example at platform ends where passengers needed to pass the signal post to exit from the platform. The bracket allowed the signal to be sited alongside the appropriate line from a post set at the back of the platform.
On the approach to junctions where two signals were carried by the same post with the bracket providing an offset location for a second signal arm, the arms applying to the left or right route as appropriate. The clearing of one arm indicated to the driver which route had been set for his train.