GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Protection of Roadway Workers Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC) is establishing 'Foul Time' on a controlled track. Before the foul time becomes effective, what communication must occur between the RWIC and the train dispatcher?
- The RWIC must state their name, location, and the number of workers in their group.
- The train dispatcher must provide a unique authorization number to the RWIC.
- The RWIC must repeat the track identifier, limits, and time of the foul time back to the dispatcher for verification. (Correct answer)
- The RWIC must confirm that all workers are wearing high-visibility personal protective equipment.
Correct answer: The RWIC must repeat the track identifier, limits, and time of the foul time back to the dispatcher for verification.
According to federal regulations (49 CFR § 214.323) which GCOR incorporates, before foul time becomes effective, the roadway worker in charge must repeat the track number/identifier, the specific track limits, and the time limits back to the issuing train dispatcher or control operator. This ensures mutual understanding and that the correct protection is being established.
Question 2: A train crew is approaching established working limits. Under what condition may their train enter these limits?
- If the train is moving at restricted speed.
- After receiving permission from the train dispatcher.
- Only after receiving direct instructions from the Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC) controlling the limits. (Correct answer)
- If the governing signal to enter the limits displays a 'Proceed' indication.
Correct answer: Only after receiving direct instructions from the Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC) controlling the limits.
Working limits are under the exclusive control of the Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC). Regardless of signal indication or dispatcher instructions for movement outside the limits, no train or on-track equipment may enter working limits without the express permission of the RWIC who is responsible for the on-track safety of the work group.
Question 3: Which of the following is a mandatory component of an on-track safety job briefing conducted by the RWIC before any work begins?
- A review of the previous day's work and any incidents that occurred.
- Information on the means by which on-track safety is to be provided for each track to be fouled. (Correct answer)
- The expected time of completion for the entire project.
- The names and contact information for all train dispatchers on duty in the territory.
Correct answer: Information on the means by which on-track safety is to be provided for each track to be fouled.
Federal regulations (49 CFR § 214.315) and GCOR require that an on-track safety job briefing must, at a minimum, include information on the means by which on-track safety will be provided for each track that workers may foul. This ensures every worker understands the specific type of protection being used (e.g., working limits, lookout, etc.).
Question 4: A roadway work group is protected by a watchman/lookout providing 'Train Approach Warning'. What is the primary responsibility of each roadway worker when the watchman/lookout gives a warning of an approaching train?
- To immediately contact the RWIC for further instructions.
- To move to a predetermined place of safety and remain there until the train has passed. (Correct answer)
- To acknowledge the warning by raising a hand signal to the watchman.
- To secure all tools and equipment before leaving the track.
Correct answer: To move to a predetermined place of safety and remain there until the train has passed.
When 'Train Approach Warning' is the method of protection, the system relies on the watchman/lookout providing timely warning and each worker immediately occupying a predetermined place of safety. The first and most critical action is to clear the track to the place of safety. Other actions are secondary to ensuring personal safety from the approaching train.
Question 5: Under GCOR, who is permitted to establish, control, and release working limits for the purpose of on-track safety?
- Any employee who has completed the annual roadway worker protection training.
- The train dispatcher for the territory where the work is being performed.
- Only a qualified Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC). (Correct answer)
- A designated member of the train crew operating in the vicinity.
Correct answer: Only a qualified Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC).
Only a properly qualified Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC) has the authority and responsibility to establish, have control over, and ultimately release working limits. This ensures a single point of contact and control for the safety of the work group.
Question 6: A roadway worker is assigned to work alone and must foul the track. What is this worker referred to as, and what must they do at the start of their duty period?
- A 'Track Patroller', and they must get a track bulletin listing all train movements.
- A 'Lone Worker', and they must communicate with a supervisor to receive an on-track safety job briefing. (Correct answer)
- A 'Field Inspector', and they must place red flags 2 miles in each direction before starting work.
- A 'Solo Employee', and they must wait for the first train to pass before fouling the track.
Correct answer: A 'Lone Worker', and they must communicate with a supervisor to receive an on-track safety job briefing.
A roadway worker assigned to work alone is termed a 'Lone Worker'. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 214.315(e)) require that each lone worker communicate with a supervisor or another designated employee at the beginning of each duty period to receive an on-track safety job briefing and discuss their planned itinerary and safety procedures.
GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Protection of Roadway Workers Questions and Answers
A Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC) is establishing 'Foul Time' on a controlled track.
Before the foul time becomes effective, what communication must occur between the RWIC and the train dispatcher?