PTS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield PTS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When should track workers wear hearing protection rated at NRR 25 or higher? → Whenever ambient noise exceeds 85 dB(A) over an 8-hour shift
2. When working near multiple tracks, a worker who has cleared one track to allow a train to pass must be alert to: → Trains on adjacent tracks moving in any direction
3. How would you respond to an incoming train's warning horn after you were in a secure spot? → Stretch one arm out in front of you.
4. Which of the following best describes 'sun kink' as a railway hazard? → Lateral buckling of the rail caused by thermal expansion in hot weather
5. You are issued with new safety footwear for trackside work. Which specific features must these boots have to comply with Network Rail standards? → Ankle support and a penetration-resistant mid-sole.
6. When a lookout is positioned to warn workers, what is the MINIMUM distance ahead of an approaching train the lookout must be able to see? → 1,000 feet
7. A safe place to stand when a train is passing is called a position of safety. → True
8. A worker believes they heard a train approach warning but is uncertain. What is the correct response? → Immediately clear the track and confirm with the lookout or dispatcher
9. A key reason track workers must NEVER rely on a train driver seeing them and stopping is: → Train stopping distances are far too great to protect a worker who has been spotted late
10. How should a worker respond if their vehicle or machine makes contact with an overhead electrified line? → Stay inside the vehicle and call for help unless fire forces exit
11. Under PTS rules, when does a gang foreman's track authority expire? → When the train dispatcher calls to check in
12. Which of the following statements is true regarding DC Conductor Rails, also known as the third rail? → You must always assume they are live and dangerous.
13. Which type of glove provides protection when handling equipment in areas where incidental contact with electrified components is possible? → Rubber insulating gloves rated for the voltage level
14. At what point is it safe to resume work after a warning signal has been given? → When the lookout gives the all-clear signal and the line is confirmed safe
15. A 'designated access point' refers to which of the following? → An approved location with controlled entry onto the track
16. When a track worker witnesses a near miss, what should they do first? → Inform the COSS and complete an incident report as soon as possible
17. When is it okay for you to cross the running line or get close to it? → If you hold PTS and your job need it, only when it is absolutely necessary
18. Who is responsible for authorizing access to a PTS worksite? → The Controller of Site Safety (COSS) or Person in Charge (PIC)
19. What is the minimum distance you must be from the nearest running rail to be in a position of safety on a line where the permitted train speed is 80 mph? → 1.25 metres (4 feet)
20. What does the term 'cess' refer to on a railway? → The area of ground beside the track outside the rails
21. When a train is approaching while you are on or close to the line, what should you do? → Move to a safe location right away.
22. When working on electrical wires, what extra precautions do you need to take? → Using metallic tools or liquids
23. What does the term 'PPE hierarchy' mean in the context of PTS? → PPE is the last line of defense after engineering and administrative controls
24. Before any On-Track Plant begins moving on or near where people are working, the OTP operator should: → Sound an audible warning and ensure all workers are clear of the plant's movement area
25. A Lookout must NOT be given any other duties while acting as a Lookout because: → Split attention could cause a failure to detect or warn of approaching trains
26. What is the significance of the term 'open line working' for PTS holders? → Working on or near lines where trains are still running, requiring a safe system of work
27. What is the minimum distance a place of safety must normally be from the nearest running rail? → 2.5 m
28. When the COSS announces 'all out,' workers must: → Clear the track and reach a place of safety immediately
29. Where is the fence installed? → Between the work location and the closest available line
30. Which of the following best describes the inspection workers should perform on hi-vis vests before each shift? → Inspect for tears, missing retroreflective material, and faded fluorescent fabric