Rail Operations & Train Handling Flashcards

When a locomotive engineer encounters a slow order restricting speed to 25 mph, at what point must the train be at or below that speed?

Answer: At the point where the slow order sign is posted

Under FRA regulations, the train must be at or below the prescribed slow order speed at the point where the restriction begins, marked by the posted sign.

What is the primary purpose of dynamic braking on a locomotive consist?

Answer: To convert the locomotive's traction motors into generators to slow the train

Dynamic braking uses the traction motors as generators, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy (dissipated as heat) to retard train speed.

Under FRA 49 CFR Part 218, what is required before a crew member goes between cars of a standing train?

Answer: Blue signal protection must be applied

FRA blue signal rules require that blue flags or lights be displayed to protect workers between or under cars before anyone may go between standing equipment.

A train is traveling at 50 mph on a 1.5% descending grade. Compared to level track, how will the train's stopping distance be affected?

Answer: Stopping distance will be longer because gravity adds to the train's momentum

On a descending grade, gravity works against the braking effort, significantly increasing stopping distance compared to level track.

What does the term 'stretch the train' mean in rail operations?

Answer: Allowing the locomotive to pull ahead until all slack is removed from couplers

Stretching the train means allowing the locomotive to pull forward until all slack in the couplers is removed, creating a taut train condition.

According to FRA regulations, what is the maximum time a freight train crew member may remain on duty without a rest break?

Answer: 12 hours

FRA Hours of Service regulations (49 CFR Part 228) limit freight train crew members to 12 consecutive hours on duty before mandatory rest.

What is the correct action when a train crew observes a washout or broken rail ahead at a distance that makes stopping impossible?

Answer: Apply full emergency braking and sound the whistle continuously

When a hazard cannot be avoided, the crew must apply emergency brakes immediately and sound the whistle continuously to warn anyone in the area.