PTS Safe Access and Egress 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When carrying equipment across a track, which practice is safest?
- Drag heavy items along the rail to save time
- Cross quickly and step over rails without pausing
- Carry equipment clear of the rails and cross at right angles at a designated point (Correct answer)
- Hand equipment to a colleague already on the other side first
Correct answer: Carry equipment clear of the rails and cross at right angles at a designated point
Equipment must be carried clear of rails and workers should cross perpendicular to the track at a designated point to minimize time in the danger zone.
Question 2: A lookout is positioned during track work primarily to:
- Direct vehicle traffic near the site
- Provide a warning of approaching trains so workers can reach a place of safety (Correct answer)
- Operate the track blocking equipment
- Record the times of passing trains
Correct answer: Provide a warning of approaching trains so workers can reach a place of safety
A lookout's primary role is to watch for approaching trains and give workers adequate warning to reach a place of safety.
Question 3: At what point should a worker respond to a lookout's warning signal?
- After finishing the immediate task
- Immediately, without delay (Correct answer)
- After confirming the signal with a second worker
- Only if they personally see the train approaching
Correct answer: Immediately, without delay
Workers must respond to a lookout warning immediately — any delay reduces the margin of safety.
Question 4: Which situation requires re-briefing of all workers before resuming track access?
- A scheduled break of 15 minutes
- A change in the safe system of work or working conditions (Correct answer)
- A change in weather from cloudy to sunny
- Arrival of additional tools at the worksite
Correct answer: A change in the safe system of work or working conditions
Any change in the safe system of work — including new hazards, changed possession, or altered work scope — requires re-briefing all personnel.
Question 5: What does a 'flashing amber' automated warning light at a track access gate typically indicate?
- The track is clear for access
- A train movement is imminent and access is suspended (Correct answer)
- The gate mechanism needs maintenance
- Workers should speed up their crossing
Correct answer: A train movement is imminent and access is suspended
Flashing amber at a track access gate signals an imminent train movement; workers must stop and wait until the all-clear is given.
Question 6: When descending from a platform edge to track level, a worker should:
- Jump down facing away from the track
- Use the approved ladder or steps while facing the ladder and checking for trains (Correct answer)
- Slide down on the platform edge for speed
- Ask a colleague to lift them down
Correct answer: Use the approved ladder or steps while facing the ladder and checking for trains
Approved ladders or steps must be used, with the worker facing the ladder and confirming the track is clear before descending.
Question 7: A 'green zone' worksite boundary means:
- Environmental protection is in effect
- Workers are beyond the minimum safe distance from any live line (Correct answer)
- The track vegetation has been cleared
- High-visibility vests are not required
Correct answer: Workers are beyond the minimum safe distance from any live line
A green zone indicates that workers are positioned beyond the minimum required safe distance from any live or operational line.
PTS Safe Access and Egress 3
When carrying equipment across a track, which practice is safest?