Personal Track Safety (PTS) Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Under FRA regulations, what must be done to a third rail before track workers can safely work in its vicinity?

Maintain a 1-foot standoff distance and use insulated tools
Approach within 6 inches wearing rubber gloves rated for the voltage
Post a lookout facing the rail and work quickly
The rail must be de-energized and grounded by qualified electrical workers (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The rail must be de-energized and grounded by qualified electrical workers

Workers must not approach an energized third rail; it must be de-energized and grounded by qualified electrical workers before track workers can safely work nearby.

Question 2: What is the primary purpose of establishing 'movement authority' before beginning roadway work?

To document worker hours for payroll purposes
To allow supervisors to track worker productivity
To notify the railroad's insurance carrier of the work activity
To ensure train dispatchers know who is working and where, preventing train movements into the work zone (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To ensure train dispatchers know who is working and where, preventing train movements into the work zone

Movement authority creates a formal record with the train dispatcher, establishing protected limits that prevent trains from being authorized into the roadway worker's work area.

Question 3: What is a 'lookout' responsible for during track work?

Operating the track possession paperwork and authorization forms
Directing road traffic near a level crossing for the work gang
Inspecting the track ahead of engineering trains before they move
Warning track workers of approaching trains so they can reach a place of safety (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Warning track workers of approaching trains so they can reach a place of safety

A lookout watches for approaching trains and gives advance warning to track workers, ensuring they have enough time to reach a place of safety before the train arrives.

Question 4: What is the mandatory minimum distance for a position of safety on a line where trains are permitted to travel at 125 mph?

3 metres (10 feet)
1.5 metres (5 feet)
1.25 metres (4 feet)
2 metres (6 feet 6 inches) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 2 metres (6 feet 6 inches)

On lines where the speed limit is over 100 mph, the minimum distance for a position of safety is increased to 2 metres (6 feet 6 inches) to account for the increased aerodynamic effects of the passing train.

Question 5: A track worker is the only person at a work site and needs to perform a brief task near the track. What does PTS require?

A single worker may not work alone near live track without a designated lookout (Correct answer)
The worker must complete a solo work assessment form before starting
The worker must contact the control center and obtain verbal permission
Solo workers may use their own judgment if the task takes less than two minutes

Correct answer: A single worker may not work alone near live track without a designated lookout

PTS prohibits solo workers from being near live track without a lookout because there is no one to warn them of approaching trains.

Question 6: During a PTS briefing, a supervisor states that the adjacent line remains live while work proceeds on the isolated line. What must all workers do?

Request that the adjacent line also be isolated before starting any work
Assign one worker to watch only the adjacent line while others work freely
Maintain required clearance from the live adjacent line and avoid any equipment encroachment (Correct answer)
Ignore the adjacent line since they are only working on the isolated line

Correct answer: Maintain required clearance from the live adjacent line and avoid any equipment encroachment

Workers must maintain required approach distances from any adjacent live line at all times, ensuring no person or equipment encroaches on the live line's danger zone.

Question 7: What type of warning device is commonly used by a lookout to alert workers?

A red flag only
A flashing light only
An audible warning horn or whistle (Correct answer)
A radio transmitter

Correct answer: An audible warning horn or whistle

An audible warning horn or whistle is commonly used by a lookout to provide a clear, immediate alert to track workers.

Question 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?

2 metres (6 feet 6 inches)
1.25 metres (4 feet) (Correct answer)
1 metre (3 feet 3 inches)
3 metres (10 feet)

Correct answer: 1.25 metres (4 feet)

For lines where the train speed is 100 mph or less, the minimum distance for a position of safety is 1.25 metres (4 feet) from the nearest running rail.

Question 9: What must be confirmed before using a designated access point onto the railway?

Any gate or gap in the railway fence constitutes a valid access point
The access point has been used by the team before on a previous shift
The access point is within 500 metres of the work site
The access point is included in the site plan and risk assessment, the line protection is in place, and the COSS has authorised access (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The access point is included in the site plan and risk assessment, the line protection is in place, and the COSS has authorised access

Only designated, authorised access points may be used. The access must be included in the site plan and risk assessment, and the COSS must confirm protection is in place before access is given.

Question 10: What is 'ballast' in railway engineering?

The metal fastening holding rails to sleepers
The crushed stone layer supporting the sleepers and distributing load (Correct answer)
The concrete foundation under sleepers
The drainage channel alongside the track

Correct answer: The crushed stone layer supporting the sleepers and distributing load

Ballast is the layer of crushed angular stone placed under and around sleepers to distribute the load of trains, drain water, and maintain track geometry.

Question 11: What is the purpose of the Sentinel 'sponsorship' system and who can sponsor a worker?

A scheme where Network Rail sponsors railway apprentices financially
A mechanism where an approved employer validates and takes responsibility for a worker's Sentinel registration, competencies, and conduct on Network Rail infrastructure (Correct answer)
A mentoring arrangement where experienced workers train new starters
A financial incentive scheme rewarding workers for accident-free service

Correct answer: A mechanism where an approved employer validates and takes responsibility for a worker's Sentinel registration, competencies, and conduct on Network Rail infrastructure

The Sentinel sponsorship system requires workers to be registered with an approved employer (sponsor) who takes accountability for validating their competencies and fitness for railway work.

Question 12: When a road-rail vehicle needs to travel along the line through a section of track where workers are present, who is responsible for ensuring the workers are positioned safely?

The signaller, who controls all plant movements via signal
The COSS, who must coordinate with the OTP operator and ensure all workers are in a safe position before authorising movement (Correct answer)
Each individual worker, who must independently decide whether to move
The OTP operator alone, as they control the machine

Correct answer: The COSS, who must coordinate with the OTP operator and ensure all workers are in a safe position before authorising movement

The COSS is responsible for the safety of workers within the safe system of work, including coordinating with OTP operators. Before plant moves through or within the worksite, the COSS must ensure workers are at a position of safety and give clearance. The OTP operator and COSS must communicate clearly before any such movement.

Question 13: What is the minimum requirement before a worker can place any part of their body within the track structure, such as reaching down between the rails?

They must be wearing high-visibility clothing
They must confirm no trains are scheduled for the next 30 minutes
They must have a specific authority that covers work within the track structure (Correct answer)
They must inform a colleague of their intention

Correct answer: They must have a specific authority that covers work within the track structure

Placing any part of the body within the track structure constitutes working on track and requires a specific authority before doing so.

Question 14: 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?

As soon as the train is visible
5 seconds
30 seconds
10 seconds (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 10 seconds

The rules state that when a warning is given, you must move to a position of safety and be there at least 10 seconds before the train arrives. This provides a crucial safety margin. [6, 12, 14]

Question 15: What hazard does 'overhead electrification flashover' create for track workers?

Temporary signal failure across the electrified zone
Interference with track circuit detection equipment nearby
An arc of electricity jumping from OLE to a person or object that is too close (Correct answer)
Rail expansion due to heat generated by the electrical current

Correct answer: An arc of electricity jumping from OLE to a person or object that is too close

A flashover occurs when electricity arcs from overhead line equipment to a nearby person or conductor — direct contact is not required if the person is too close to energized OLE.

Question 16: Which signal is used to stop a train in an emergency when standard equipment is unavailable?

Waving both arms horizontally above the head (Correct answer)
A steady red light held stationary
Two long whistle blasts
Repeated short blasts on a horn

Correct answer: Waving both arms horizontally above the head

Waving both arms horizontally above the head is the recognized hand signal to stop a train.

Question 17: What does the term 'fouling point' refer to in railway terminology?

The point where a vehicle on one track would obstruct a vehicle on an adjacent converging track (Correct answer)
The location where track becomes contaminated with oil or grease
The point where two rail lines merge into a single track
The boundary marker of a level crossing

Correct answer: The point where a vehicle on one track would obstruct a vehicle on an adjacent converging track

The fouling point is the location beyond which a vehicle on one track would be struck by or interfere with a vehicle on an adjacent converging track.

Question 18: You are issued with new safety footwear for trackside work. Which specific features must these boots have to comply with Network Rail standards?

Steel toe caps and a waterproof lining.
Quick-release laces and a comfort insole.
Electrical hazard resistance and slip-resistant soles.
Ankle support and a penetration-resistant mid-sole. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Ankle support and a penetration-resistant mid-sole.

Network Rail standards mandate that safety footwear must not only have a protective toe cap but also provide ankle support to prevent twists and sprains on uneven ballast, and a penetration-resistant mid-sole to protect against sharp objects underfoot, such as sheared bolts or track clips.

Question 19: When is it acceptable for a roadway worker to be inside the fouling area of a track without being in a position of safety?

Only when on-track safety has been established for that track (Correct answer)
Whenever the track is not scheduled for train traffic
When the worker's supervisor is present
Only during daylight hours when trains are clearly visible

Correct answer: Only when on-track safety has been established for that track

A worker may foul a track only after on-track safety (such as a work permit, train approach warning, or exclusive track occupancy) has been properly established.

Question 20: How would you respond to an incoming train's warning horn after you were in a secure spot?

Elevate and descend one arm.
Stretch both arms out in front of you.
Stretch one arm out in front of you. (Correct answer)
It is not necessary to accept the driver's alert.

Correct answer: Stretch one arm out in front of you.

Stretching one arm out in front of you is the recognized hand signal in railway environments to acknowledge a train driver's warning. This signal communicates to the driver that you have seen their warning horn and are now in a safe position. It confirms your awareness and safety, which is vital for operational communication.

Question 21: What is the purpose of wearing ear protection on a railway worksite?

Ear protection is only required when trains pass at more than 100 mph
To reduce distraction from background noise during safety briefings
To comply with an optional best-practice recommendation
To protect workers from noise-induced hearing loss caused by plant, machinery, power tools, and train pass-bys that can exceed safe exposure levels (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To protect workers from noise-induced hearing loss caused by plant, machinery, power tools, and train pass-bys that can exceed safe exposure levels

Prolonged exposure to noise from trains, power tools, and machinery can cause permanent hearing loss. Ear protection is required when noise levels exceed 85 dB(A) averaged over a working day.

Question 22: Who is responsible for appointing a lookout for a track work activity?

The COSS or person in charge of the work (Correct answer)
The lookout themselves
The Network Rail control room
The train driver

Correct answer: The COSS or person in charge of the work

The COSS (Controller of Site Safety) or person in charge is responsible for appointing a qualified and competent lookout.

Question 23: 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 (Correct answer)
Cut-resistant gloves with steel fiber
Anti-vibration gloves
Standard leather work gloves

Correct answer: Rubber insulating gloves rated for the voltage level

Rubber insulating gloves rated for the specific voltage level are required to provide protection against electrical shock.

Question 24: Under PTS rules, what is the primary responsibility of a lookout assigned to protect workers?

To record the time and speed of all passing trains
To warn workers of approaching trains with enough time for them to reach a position of safety (Correct answer)
To physically escort each worker to their designated safe position
To communicate with the train engineer directly via radio

Correct answer: To warn workers of approaching trains with enough time for them to reach a position of safety

The lookout's primary duty is to give workers timely warning so they can reach a position of safety before any train arrives.

Question 25: When a lookout gives the warning signal, what must all workers in the track do FIRST?

Acknowledge the signal before moving
Continue working until the signal is repeated
Wait for a verbal confirmation from the supervisor
Stop work immediately and move to a place of safety (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Stop work immediately and move to a place of safety

On receiving a warning signal, all workers must immediately stop work and move to a designated place of safety without waiting for further instruction.

Question 26: Which railway term describes the vertical distance between the rail head and the underside of a structure above the track?

Loading gauge
Kinematic envelope
Structure gauge
Headroom clearance (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Headroom clearance

Headroom clearance is the vertical distance from the top of the rail to the underside of a bridge, gantry, or other overhead structure, a critical safety dimension for workers and vehicles.

Question 27: Under what circumstance is it acceptable to extend the time limits of an active SSoW without contacting the controlling authority?

When all workers agree it is safe to continue
When the PIC judges no trains are scheduled
When work is more than 75% complete
It is never acceptable — extensions must always be authorized (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It is never acceptable — extensions must always be authorized

Time limits on a SSoW cannot be self-extended; any extension must be formally requested from and granted by the controlling authority.

Question 28: What is the purpose of a method statement in track work?

To describe the step-by-step safe method for carrying out a task (Correct answer)
To record accidents and near misses
To schedule train movements around the worksite
To list all workers on site by name

Correct answer: To describe the step-by-step safe method for carrying out a task

A method statement describes the step-by-step procedure for completing a task safely, ensuring all workers follow the same agreed safe method.

Question 29: Before a Roadway Worker in Charge (RWIC) can release a work crew from track authority, the RWIC must confirm that:

The train dispatcher has been notified
All workers and equipment are clear of the track (Correct answer)
The blue flag has been removed
Workers have signed out on the job briefing form

Correct answer: All workers and equipment are clear of the track

The RWIC must visually or verbally confirm all workers and equipment are clear before releasing track authority to allow train movement.

Question 30: When making an emergency call to the signaller, which of the following is the most critical piece of information to convey first?

The weather conditions at your location.
Your name and employer.
Stating "This is an emergency call". (Correct answer)
Your Sentinel card number.

Correct answer: Stating "This is an emergency call".

To ensure the call is treated with the urgency it requires, you must begin by stating, "This is an emergency call." This immediately alerts the signaller to the critical nature of the communication, prompting them to give you their full attention and prioritise your message.

Question 31: What is the correct storage practice for a hard hat when not in use?

Store in direct sunlight to keep it dry
Store in the rear window shelf of a vehicle for easy access
Store away from UV light, chemicals, and extreme heat (Correct answer)
Hang it on a hook by the suspension harness

Correct answer: Store away from UV light, chemicals, and extreme heat

Hard hat shells degrade from UV radiation, chemical exposure, and heat, so they should be stored in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.

Question 32: Why is a verbal shout generally not an acceptable lookout warning method?

It is not allowed under PTS rules
It cannot be used during night working
It startles workers unnecessarily
It may not be reliably heard over equipment noise or at distance (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It may not be reliably heard over equipment noise or at distance

A verbal shout is not reliable because it may not be heard over machinery noise or at distance, unlike dedicated audible warning devices.

Personal Track Safety (PTS) Exam

The PTS certification exam tests individuals on safe working practices near operational railway tracks in the UK, including hazard awareness, safe systems of work, and emergency procedures.

Questions

45 min

Time Limit

80%

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