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. 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.
2. 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.
3. A safe place to stand when a train is passing is called a position of safety. → True
4. How long are employers required to keep records of over-three-day incapacitation injuries under RIDDOR? → 3 years from the date of the accident
5. 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.
6. 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
7. 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
8. 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)
9. What does the term 'cess' refer to on a railway? → The area of ground beside the track outside the rails
10. What is the correct action if a track worker discovers a defect or hazard that has not yet caused any harm? → Report it immediately to the COSS so corrective action can be taken without delay
11. 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.
12. When working on electrical wires, what extra precautions do you need to take? → Using metallic tools or liquids
13. 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
14. Where is the fence installed? → Between the work location and the closest available line
15. What should a PTS holder do if they see a hazard that the COSS has not identified or briefed the team about? → Immediately report it to the COSS so the safe system of work can be reviewed and updated
16. If a train is approaching and you are unable to get to a safe distance, what would you do? → Place yourself on the six-foot mat with all of your clothes piled inside.
17. What is the primary purpose of reporting near misses and accidents in railway track work? → To learn from events and implement improvements to prevent recurrence
18. What is the primary role of a lookout in a PTS working environment? → To warn track workers of approaching trains
19. What is 'ballast' in railway engineering? → The crushed stone layer supporting the sleepers and distributing load
20. What is the lowest point at which a line with a top speed of 100 mph is safe? → 1.25 m
21. When should a risk assessment be reviewed and updated? → Regularly and whenever there is a significant change to the work or conditions
22. Which of the following conditions would make a piece of high-visibility clothing non-compliant and unsafe for use on the track? → The garment is heavily soiled with dirt and grease, obscuring the fluorescent material.
23. What type of warning device is commonly used by a lookout to alert workers? → An audible warning horn or whistle
24. When walking to a site of work, what is the safest place to be, assuming there is no authorised walking route and you have not been instructed otherwise? → In the cess, walking towards the direction of oncoming trains where possible.
25. What is the specific Railway Industry Standard that governs the requirements for high-visibility clothing worn by people on or near the line in the UK? → RIS-3279-TOM
26. Under a Safe System of Work where a lookout is used, what is the minimum time you must be in a position of safety before a train arrives? → 10 seconds
27. Out of five alternatives, which two constitute a safe system? → Equipment alert
28. When on or near the line, the safest location to stroll is an authorized pedestrian route. Where could you locate published details? Mark all that apply. → Directory of Hazards
29. Lookout-protected working is not permitted above certain line speeds because of which reason? → Insufficient warning time can be provided to workers
30. Is the track held in place by ballasts? → TRUE