Mixed Deck — All GCOR Topics Flashcards

Who is the employee assigned to operate a CTC or interlocking control machine?

Answer: Control Operator

Explanation: A control operator is an employee assigned to operate a CTC or interlocking control machine. They are responsible for controlling and monitoring the movement of trains, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the railway system. They have the authority to control signals, switches, and other equipment to maintain the flow of train traffic. Control operators play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and smooth functioning of the railway network.

A train receives a track warrant with Box 7 checked: 'Not in effect until after the arrival of Train XYZ at Dover.' What action must the crew take?

Answer: Must not act on their authority until they have confirmed Train XYZ has arrived at Dover.

A track warrant with Box 7 checked creates a conditional authority. The authority granted by the warrant cannot be used, and the train cannot enter the limits, until the specified train (Train XYZ) has arrived at the designated location (Dover). This is a common method for arranging meets between trains in TWC territory.

A train crew is instructed by a Track Bulletin Form B to protect against men and equipment between MP 10 and MP 12. Upon approaching the limits, what is the first required action?

Answer: Stop before entering the limits unless instructed otherwise by the employee in charge.

GCOR Rule 15.2, 'Protection by Track Bulletin Form B,' requires that a train must not enter the limits protected by a Form B bulletin until instructed by the employee in charge. A train must stop before the limits unless prior instructions are received.

When operating a locomotive with a defective sand system, what restriction applies under GCOR?

Answer: Speed must be reduced to account for potentially reduced adhesion

A defective sand system reduces wheel-rail adhesion capability, requiring a speed reduction to account for the increased risk of wheel slip or slide.

According to GCOR, what must a crew do upon discovering a broken rail?

Answer: Stop immediately, protect both ends of the break, and notify the dispatcher

GCOR requires the crew to stop immediately upon discovering a broken rail, protect both ends of the break, and notify the dispatcher before any other trains approach.

When operating on another railroad, unless otherwise instructed, employees will be governed by:

Answer: All of the above

Explanation: When operating on another railroad, employees will be governed by the safety rules, air brake and train handling rules, and the operating rules and timetable/special instructions of the railroad they are employed. All of these answers are correct because when working on another railroad, employees must follow the rules and regulations of that specific railroad in order to ensure safety and proper train operations.

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?

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.

What action is required when a locomotive's dynamic brakes become inoperative during a descending grade operation?

Answer: Notify the dispatcher and use train brakes to control speed

When dynamic brakes fail on a descending grade, the engineer must notify the dispatcher and rely on the train's air brakes to control speed.

According to GCOR, when must the locomotive horn be sounded at a public grade crossing?

Answer: At approximately one-quarter mile before the crossing and until the locomotive occupies the crossing

GCOR requires the horn to be sounded beginning approximately one-quarter mile before a public grade crossing and continuing until the locomotive occupies the crossing.

Under GCOR, what is the purpose of the independent (straight air) brake on a locomotive?

Answer: To apply braking force to the locomotive independent of the train brake pipe

The independent brake applies braking force to the locomotive(s) separately from the train air brake system, without affecting the train brake pipe pressure.

When is the mandatory verbal repetition of a track warrant by the copying employee NOT required according to GCOR?

Answer: When the track warrant is transmitted mechanically to a device.

GCOR Rule 14.13 states that repetition is not required when track warrants are transmitted mechanically (e.g., to a computer or fax machine in the cab). In this case, the 'OK' time is given when the warrant is issued, and the standard read-back procedure is bypassed.

Which of the following statements is the most accurate summary of the GCOR rule regarding the minimum number of hand brakes to be applied to unattended equipment?

Answer: A sufficient number must be applied to prevent movement, based on prevailing conditions.

GCOR 7.6 uses performance-based language, requiring an employee to apply a "sufficient number of hand brakes to prevent movement." It does not specify a universal minimum number or percentage, as the requirements change drastically based on factors like grade and weather.

Under GCOR, if a train crew observes a person on or near the track in an emergency situation, what must the engineer do?

Answer: Sound the horn continuously and make an emergency brake application if necessary

GCOR requires the engineer to sound the horn continuously as a warning and make an emergency brake application if necessary to prevent injury to persons on or near the track.

What is the most important element in performing duties?

Answer: Safety

Explanation: Safety is the most important element in performing duties because it ensures the well-being and protection of oneself and others. By prioritizing safety, individuals can prevent accidents, injuries, and potential harm in the workplace. It also promotes a positive work environment and increases productivity. Safety measures include following protocols, using protective equipment, and being aware of potential hazards. By prioritizing safety, individuals can effectively carry out their duties without compromising their own health and the safety of others.

A train has authority on a track warrant from MP 10 to MP 30. After the entire train passes MP 20, the conductor reports this to the train dispatcher. What is the status of the train's authority?

Answer: The authority is considered void up to MP 20.

GCOR Rule 14.3 states that when a crew member informs the train dispatcher that the entire train has passed a specific point, the track warrant authority is considered void up to that point. The authority from MP 20 to MP 30 remains in effect.

According to GCOR, what action must be taken before a train passes over a track that has been reported as suspected of having a defect?

Answer: Obtain specific authority from the dispatcher or track authority

GCOR requires specific authority from the dispatcher or track authority before a train proceeds over track suspected of having a defect.

When a locomotive cab is not equipped with a working windshield wiper on the engineer's side during precipitation, what does GCOR require?

Answer: The locomotive must be set out at the next available location

A non-functional windshield wiper on the engineer's side impairs visibility and requires the locomotive to be set out at the next available location for repair.

According to GCOR, what must an engineer do before leaving a locomotive unattended?

Answer: Secure the locomotive so it cannot move and leave it in a safe condition

Before leaving a locomotive unattended, the engineer must secure it so it cannot move and ensure it is in a safe condition to protect against unintended movement.

According to GCOR, what speed must be observed when passing a roadway worker's on-track equipment that has been given 'clear of the movement' notification?

Answer: 20 mph

Even after on-track equipment has been cleared, GCOR requires trains to pass at no more than 20 mph to ensure worker safety.

Under GCOR, what information must be included in an emergency notification to the dispatcher after an accident?

Answer: Train ID, location, nature of emergency, and any hazmat involved

GCOR requires emergency notifications to include the train identification, precise location, nature of the emergency, and identification of any hazardous materials involved.