PTS Safe Access and Egress 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the correct procedure if a worker discovers an unplanned open access gate to a live track?
- Secure it immediately and report it to the COSS or supervisor (Correct answer)
- Leave it as is if no train is visible
- Use it as a convenient access point
- Post a colleague to guard it without reporting
Correct answer: Secure it immediately and report it to the COSS or supervisor
An unplanned open gate is a safety breach that must be secured immediately and reported to the COSS or supervisor.
Question 2: Which of the following is an example of an 'unsafe act' during track egress?
- Walking to the designated exit point
- Running along the track to reach the exit faster (Correct answer)
- Moving to a refuge area when warned
- Confirming clearance with the COSS
Correct answer: Running along the track to reach the exit faster
Running along the track increases the risk of tripping on ballast or rail infrastructure and is considered an unsafe act.
Question 3: Before a PTS-qualified worker allows a visitor onto the track, the worker must ensure the visitor:
- Has a railcard and photo ID
- Has received a site-specific safety briefing and is under constant direct supervision (Correct answer)
- Signs a waiver of liability form
- Is wearing standard street clothing with a reflective band
Correct answer: Has received a site-specific safety briefing and is under constant direct supervision
Visitors must receive a site-specific safety briefing and remain under constant supervision of a PTS-qualified person at all times.
Question 4: When the COSS announces 'all out,' workers must:
- Complete their current task first
- Clear the track and reach a place of safety immediately (Correct answer)
- Move to the adjacent track
- Acknowledge verbally and continue for up to 2 minutes
Correct answer: Clear the track and reach a place of safety immediately
'All out' is an immediate instruction requiring every worker to clear the track and reach a place of safety without delay.
Question 5: A worker's PTS competency card has expired. What is the correct course of action?
- Continue working while scheduling a renewal course
- Stop work on or near the track immediately until renewal is complete (Correct answer)
- Ask a colleague to cover any track access duties
- Work only during daylight hours until renewed
Correct answer: Stop work on or near the track immediately until renewal is complete
An expired PTS competency means the worker is no longer authorized to access or work on the track and must cease track work immediately.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a 'place of safety' near a PTS worksite?
- A resting area for breaks away from sun exposure
- A pre-identified location where workers are clear of all train movements (Correct answer)
- A secure storage area for tools and materials
- The nearest station office
Correct answer: A pre-identified location where workers are clear of all train movements
A place of safety is a pre-identified location from which workers are fully clear of all passing trains and other track hazards.
Question 7: Which PPE item is specifically required for all workers accessing the track, regardless of other gear?
- Knee pads
- High-visibility vest or jacket meeting the required standard (Correct answer)
- Safety goggles
- Ear defenders
Correct answer: High-visibility vest or jacket meeting the required standard
A high-visibility vest or jacket meeting the applicable standard is mandatory for all personnel accessing the track so they are visible to train drivers.
PTS Safe Access and Egress 4
What is the correct procedure if a worker discovers an unplanned open access gate to a live track?