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. A COSS is responsible for ensuring which of the following before handing back a possession? → All personnel, tools, and equipment are clear of the line and within defined limits
5. What does 'degraded mode working' mean in a railway signalling context? → Operating the railway under alternative rules when normal signalling equipment has failed
6. Which of the following best describes 'sun kink' as a railway hazard? → Lateral buckling of the rail caused by thermal expansion in hot weather
7. 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.
8. Which condition makes working near electrified lines MORE dangerous and requires additional precautions? → Wet or damp conditions
9. 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
10. What is a 'lookout' responsible for during track work? → Warning track workers of approaching trains so they can reach a place of safety
11. What is the role of a point protection lookout in relation to a worker's position of safety? → To observe approaching trains and give workers adequate warning time to reach safety
12. Which type of fire extinguisher is appropriate for a Class C (electrical) fire near track equipment? → CO2 or dry chemical extinguisher rated for Class C fires
13. A safe place to stand when a train is passing is called a position of safety. → True
14. Which element is MANDATORY in every PTS method statement regardless of the complexity of the task? → The emergency and evacuation procedures for all workers on site
15. 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
16. How long are employers required to keep records of over-three-day incapacitation injuries under RIDDOR? → 3 years from the date of the accident
17. 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
18. 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
19. Under PTS rules, when does a gang foreman's track authority expire? → When the train dispatcher calls to check in
20. A COSS discovers that the agreed possession does not match the actual work location — the job is 200 metres beyond the confirmed limit. What should they do? → Contact the signaller to request an extension of the possession before moving the party
21. 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.
22. 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
23. 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
24. A 'designated access point' refers to which of the following? → An approved location with controlled entry onto the track
25. 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
26. 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
27. Who is responsible for authorizing access to a PTS worksite? → The Controller of Site Safety (COSS) or Person in Charge (PIC)
28. 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)
29. What does 'lineside' refer to in railway safety documents? → The area alongside the railway track, including the track itself and adjacent land
30. What is the prescribed alcohol limit for workers covered by the Sentinel Scheme when on duty or about to go on duty on or near the line? → Zero tolerance — no alcohol is permitted