PTS Positions of Safety 3

Question 1

Which term describes the space within which a person or equipment is at risk of being struck by a passing train or its loads?

Accepted Answer

Fouling area

Answer

Danger zone

Answer

Clearance envelope

Answer

Strike corridor

Question 2

A lookout warns the gang, but one worker is operating a loud machine and does not hear the signal. What is the BEST preventive measure?

Accepted Answer

Train the worker to watch for visual lookout signals in addition to audible ones

Answer

Require the lookout to use only visual signals

Answer

Have the foreman physically stop the machine when a train approaches

Answer

Reduce machine noise levels below OSHA limits

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Only when on-track safety has been established for that track

Answer

Whenever the track is not scheduled for train traffic

Answer

When the worker's supervisor is present

Answer

Only during daylight hours when trains are clearly visible

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of identifying a position of safety during a job briefing?

Accepted Answer

To ensure all workers know exactly where to go without hesitation when a warning is given

Answer

To satisfy FRA record-keeping requirements

Answer

To allow the supervisor to assign lookout duties

Answer

To identify areas where equipment can be parked safely

Question 5

On a curved track with restricted sightlines, how should the position of safety requirements change?

Accepted Answer

Workers need more time to reach safety, so the lookout must give warning earlier

Answer

Workers may use the inside of the curve as a natural position of safety

Answer

No change is required if a flagman is stationed at the curve

Answer

The minimum distance from the rail can be reduced due to reduced train speed on curves

Question 6

Which of the following best describes 'clear of the track'?

Accepted Answer

Standing outside the fouling area of a track with no part of your body or equipment at risk

Answer

Standing between the rails of a track that is not in use

Answer

Being more than 25 feet from any railroad track

Answer

Completing all work tasks before a train arrives

Question 7

A worker is positioned 5 feet from the near rail of Track 1, which has a train approaching. Is this worker in a position of safety if Track 2 is 9 feet to the other side?

Accepted Answer

No, because the worker may be inside the fouling area of Track 2

Answer

Yes, because 5 feet exceeds the minimum 4-foot requirement from Track 1

Answer

Yes, because Track 2 spacing provides additional protection

Answer

No, because workers must always be at least 8 feet from any rail