Handling Switches and Derails Flashcards
6 cards from real GCOR practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Handling Switches and Derails flashcards as text
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?
Answer: Line and lock the switch for the main track.
GCOR Rule 8.3 states that the normal position of a main track switch is for main track movement and it must be lined and locked in that position after use, unless specific exceptions apply (such as being attended or under dispatcher authority).
According to GCOR Rule 8.2, who bears the ultimate responsibility for the position of a hand-operated switch while it is in use?
Answer: The employee who is operating the switch.
GCOR Rule 8.2 explicitly states that the employee handling or operating the switch is responsible for its position. This is a rule of personal responsibility.
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?
Answer: The derail must be removed from the rail or placed in the non-derailing position.
The purpose of a derail is to protect another track (often the main track) from an unauthorized movement. The derail must be placed in the non-derailing position to allow equipment to safely enter the track it protects.
When making a trailing point movement over a spring switch, which of the following is a primary requirement before proceeding?
Answer: A crew member must observe that the switch points are closed and fit properly.
For a trailing point movement over a spring switch, the points are forced open by the wheels and then spring back. It is critical to ensure the points are properly closed before the movement starts to prevent a derailment. Testing the switch by hand (lining it over and back) is required only for certain facing point movements under specific signal indications.
A crew needs to use a hand-operated crossover between two main tracks. What is the correct procedure for lining the switches?
Answer: Both switches of the crossover must be opened and properly lined before the movement begins.
GCOR Rule 8.12 requires that both switches of a crossover must be opened and lined for the crossover movement before the movement starts. This ensures a continuous and safe route.
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?
Answer: The train must stop and a crew member must test the switch by lining it over and back by hand.
GCOR Rule 8.9.1 specifies that if a train is making a facing point movement over a spring switch and the switch is not protected by a block signal or switch point indicator, the train must stop and a crew member must test the switch by hand to ensure it is properly lined and the points fit correctly.