FRA Rail Operations & Train Handling 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When must a locomotive engineer provide a full-service brake reduction before making an emergency brake application on a long freight train?
- Never — emergency applications should always be made directly
- When train speed exceeds 30 mph to prevent slack run-in (Correct answer)
- Only when the dispatcher specifically instructs it
- Only on trains exceeding 10,000 tons
Correct answer: When train speed exceeds 30 mph to prevent slack run-in
On long heavy trains above 30 mph, a full-service reduction before emergency helps manage slack action and reduces the risk of a derailment from severe buff forces.
Question 2: What is meant by the term 'bunching' or 'buff force' in train handling?
- The accumulation of slack in a compressed train that creates compressive forces between cars (Correct answer)
- The process of coupling additional locomotives to a train
- The tension created when a train is stretched on an upgrade
- The noise produced by wheel flange contact with the rail
Correct answer: The accumulation of slack in a compressed train that creates compressive forces between cars
Buff forces are compressive forces that occur when slack runs in (bunches), potentially causing derailments if the force is excessive.
Question 3: Under FRA regulations, what is the minimum brake pipe pressure reduction required to initiate a full-service brake application on a freight train?
- 6 psi
- 9 psi
- 16 psi (Correct answer)
- 26 psi
Correct answer: 16 psi
A full-service brake application requires a brake pipe reduction of at least 26 psi from the charged level, though 26 psi is the standard full-service reduction.
Question 4: A train is stopped on a grade and must be held by hand brakes. According to FRA regulations, which factor primarily determines how many hand brakes are required?
- Total number of cars in the train
- Combined weight of cars and grade percentage (Correct answer)
- The type of commodity being transported
- The length of time the cars will be left unattended
Correct answer: Combined weight of cars and grade percentage
FRA regulations require that the number of hand brakes applied be sufficient to hold the cars based on their weight and the steepness of the grade.
Question 5: What is the meaning of a 'restricted speed' signal indication in railroad operations?
- Proceed at track speed authorized for the class of track
- Proceed at a speed that allows stopping within half the range of vision, not exceeding 15 mph (Correct answer)
- Stop and contact the dispatcher before proceeding
- Proceed at a speed not exceeding 25 mph, prepared to stop
Correct answer: Proceed at a speed that allows stopping within half the range of vision, not exceeding 15 mph
Restricted speed means proceeding at a speed that allows stopping within half the range of vision, not to exceed 15 mph, and looking out for obstructions.
Question 6: Which FRA regulation governs locomotive safety standards, including cab conditions and safety appliances?
- 49 CFR Part 213
- 49 CFR Part 229 (Correct answer)
- 49 CFR Part 232
- 49 CFR Part 241
Correct answer: 49 CFR Part 229
49 CFR Part 229 establishes FRA's Railroad Locomotive Safety Standards, covering mechanical condition, safety appliances, and cab environment.
Question 7: When a train crew detects a dragging equipment alarm from a wayside detector, what is the correct immediate response?
- Increase speed to clear the detector zone quickly
- Stop the train and inspect for dragging equipment before proceeding (Correct answer)
- Slow to restricted speed and continue to the next siding
- Contact the dispatcher and await instructions without stopping
Correct answer: Stop the train and inspect for dragging equipment before proceeding
A dragging equipment alarm requires an immediate stop and inspection to identify and correct the dragging condition before movement is resumed.
FRA Rail Operations & Train Handling 3
When must a locomotive engineer provide a full-service brake reduction before making an emergency brake application on a long freight train?