GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Switching and Terminal Operations Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A crew is performing a shoving movement on a main track. According to GCOR 6.5, what is the maximum authorized speed for a freight train during this operation?
- 10 MPH
- 15 MPH
- 20 MPH (Correct answer)
- 30 MPH
Correct answer: 20 MPH
GCOR Rule 6.5 explicitly states that when cars are shoved on a main track or controlled siding in the direction authorized, the movement must not exceed 20 MPH for freight trains and 30 MPH for passenger trains.
Question 2: Under GCOR Rule 8.2, who is specifically assigned responsibility for the position of a hand-operated switch while it is in use?
- The conductor of the train.
- The engineer operating the locomotive.
- The employee operating the switch. (Correct answer)
- The train dispatcher.
Correct answer: The employee operating the switch.
GCOR Rule 8.2 clearly states, 'The employee operating the switch or derail is responsible for the position of the switch or derail in use.' This places direct responsibility on the individual physically manipulating the switch.
Question 3: A yard crew is leaving a cut of cars unattended on a track. According to GCOR 7.6, what must be done to secure the equipment?
- Only the automatic air brakes must be applied.
- A sufficient number of hand brakes must be applied to prevent movement. (Correct answer)
- The cars must be coupled to a locomotive with its brakes set.
- Verbal notification to the yardmaster is sufficient.
Correct answer: A sufficient number of hand brakes must be applied to prevent movement.
GCOR Rule 7.6 states, 'Do not depend on air brakes to hold a train, engine, or cars in place when left unattended. Apply a sufficient number of hand brakes to prevent movement.' If hand brakes are inadequate, wheels must be blocked.
Question 4: Which of the following actions is explicitly prohibited when a blue signal is displayed on a track, according to GCOR 5.13?
- Operating a switch that provides access to the protected track.
- Walking on the ballast within 10 feet of the protected track.
- Using a radio to communicate near the protected track.
- Placing other rolling equipment on the same track in a way that blocks the view of the blue signal. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Placing other rolling equipment on the same track in a way that blocks the view of the blue signal.
GCOR Rule 5.13 states that a blue signal signifies workmen are on, under, or between rolling equipment. One of the key requirements is that 'Other rolling equipment must not be placed on the same track so as to block or reduce the view of the blue signal.'
Question 5: A train crew is preparing to couple to a stationary cut of cars. What is the maximum permissible coupling speed according to GCOR 7.4?
- Restricted Speed
- 10 MPH
- 4 MPH (Correct answer)
- A speed that permits stopping within half the range of vision.
Correct answer: 4 MPH
GCOR Rule 7.4, 'Precautions for Coupling or Moving Cars or Engines,' specifies that couplings must be made at a speed of not more than 4 MPH to prevent damage to equipment, lading, and to ensure employee safety.
Question 6: When must both switches of a hand-operated crossover be opened before starting a crossover movement?
- Only when the movement is on a main track.
- At all times, unless used for continuous switching by one crew.
- Both switches must be opened before the movement starts. (Correct answer)
- Only when the crossover connects to a siding.
Correct answer: Both switches must be opened before the movement starts.
GCOR Rule 8.12 requires that both switches of a crossover must be opened before a crossover movement starts. The movement must be completed before either switch is returned to its normal position. This ensures the route is completely lined and secured.
GCOR - General Code of Operating Rules Switching and Terminal Operations Questions and Answers
A crew is performing a shoving movement on a main track.
According to GCOR 6.5, what is the maximum authorized speed for a freight train during this operation?