PTS - Personal Track Safety Working Near Electrified Lines Questions and Answers

Question 1

You are tasked with carrying a long metal object, such as a ladder, in an area with Overhead Line Equipment (OLE).
What is the minimum safe distance you must maintain between the object and the live OLE?

Accepted Answer

2.75 metres (9 feet)

Answer

1.25 metres (4 feet)

Answer

2.0 metres (6 feet 6 inches)

Answer

3.0 metres (10 feet)

Question 2

A team is working on a line with a DC Conductor Rail (third rail). Under what specific condition is it permissible to work closer than 300mm (1 foot) to the live conductor rail?

Accepted Answer

When using approved insulated tools, shrouds, and appropriate PPE under a valid Safe System of Work.

Answer

Only if a lookout is present.

Answer

When wearing standard high-visibility clothing.

Answer

If the work is completed within 5 minutes.

Question 3

While walking in a cess, you discover a disconnected red bond wire hanging from an OLE structure. What is the most critical and immediate action you should take?

Accepted Answer

Immediately report it to the Electrical Control Operator (ECO), stating its colour and location.

Answer

Attempt to re-attach it to the running rail.

Answer

Report it to your COSS at the end of your shift.

Answer

Cover the bond with your jacket to prevent others from touching it.

Question 4

Which of the following statements is true regarding DC Conductor Rails, also known as the third rail?

Accepted Answer

You must always assume they are live and dangerous.

Answer

They are only live when a train is approaching.

Answer

They typically carry 25,000 volts AC.

Answer

You should step on the running rail first, then over the conductor rail when crossing.

Question 5

A workgroup's task involves using a road-rail vehicle with a hydraulic crane near OLE. The COSS has confirmed the OLE is live. What is the primary safety constraint for the vehicle operator?

Accepted Answer

No part of the vehicle or its crane may come within 2.75 metres of the OLE.

Answer

Ensure the vehicle's hazard lights are always flashing.

Answer

The operator must wear electrically insulated gloves at all times.

Answer

The crane can only be operated for a maximum of 10 minutes at a time.

Question 6

On some lines, particularly in the London Underground area, a fourth rail is present. What is the function of this fourth rail and how should it be treated?

Accepted Answer

It is a conductor rail for the electrical return current and must be treated as live and dangerous.

Answer

It is a spare running rail and can be stepped on freely.

Answer

It is a guide rail for the train's wheels and is not electrified.

Answer

It only becomes live in an emergency and is safe to touch otherwise.

You are tasked with carrying a long metal object, such as a ladder, in an area with Overhead Line Equipment (OLE).What is the minimum safe distance you must maintain between the object and the live OLE?

You are tasked with carrying a long metal object, such as a ladder, in an area with Overhead Line Equipment (OLE).
What is the minimum safe distance you must maintain between the object and the live OLE?