GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Handling Switches and Derails Questions and Answers

Question 1

An employee has finished using a hand-operated main track switch for a switching move.
After the entire movement is clear of the switch, what is the final required action regarding the switch's position?

Accepted Answer

Line and lock the switch for the main track.

Answer

Leave the switch lined for the track last used.

Answer

Notify the train dispatcher of the switch's current position.

Answer

Place a red flag at the switch stand to indicate it was used.

Question 2

According to GCOR Rule 8.2, who bears the ultimate responsibility for the position of a hand-operated switch while it is in use?

Accepted Answer

The employee who is operating the switch.

Answer

The train dispatcher.

Answer

The locomotive engineer.

Answer

The conductor of the train.

Question 3

A train is authorized to enter a yard track protected by a derail. Before the train occupies the track, what must be done with the derail?

Accepted Answer

The derail must be removed from the rail or placed in the non-derailing position.

Answer

The train dispatcher must be contacted for verbal permission to pass the derail.

Answer

The train must stop and wait for a five-minute interval before proceeding.

Answer

The derail must be inspected and confirmed to be in the derailing position.

Question 4

When making a trailing point movement over a spring switch, which of the following is a primary requirement before proceeding?

Accepted Answer

A crew member must observe that the switch points are closed and fit properly.

Answer

The movement must not exceed 5 MPH.

Answer

The train dispatcher must give verbal authorization for the movement.

Answer

The switch must be operated by hand to the reverse position and back again.

Question 5

A crew needs to use a hand-operated crossover between two main tracks. What is the correct procedure for lining the switches?

Accepted Answer

Both switches of the crossover must be opened and properly lined before the movement begins.

Answer

Line the first switch, move the engine past it, then line the second switch.

Answer

Line only the switch on the track the train is currently occupying.

Answer

Request the dispatcher to remotely line the crossover switches.

Question 6

A train crew is making a facing point movement over a spring switch that is not protected by a block signal or switch point indicator. What action must be taken?

Accepted Answer

The train must stop and a crew member must test the switch by lining it over and back by hand.

Answer

Proceed at restricted speed over the switch.

Answer

Report the unprotected switch to the dispatcher after passing it.

Answer

Trail the entire train through the switch in the opposite direction first.