PTS Sentinel Scheme and Fitness 4

Question 1

In a Lookout-protected system of work, what is the sentinel's primary duty?

Accepted Answer

To watch for approaching trains and give timely warning to allow all workers to reach a place of safety

Answer

The sentinel (lookout) must give early enough warning of approaching trains so that every worker can clear the track and reach a place of safety before the train arrives.

Question 2

Which condition would prevent a person from acting as a sentinel during a PTS operation?

Accepted Answer

Being unfamiliar with the specific warning devices and site geography at the location

Answer

A sentinel must be familiar with the warning signals being used and the site layout to give effective warnings; a person who lacks this knowledge must not take on the role.

Question 3

What is the minimum warning time that a sentinel must provide to workers in a Lookout-protected system?

Accepted Answer

Time sufficient for all workers to reach a designated place of safety before the train arrives

Answer

Warning time is not a fixed number of seconds; it must be enough for every worker to clear the line and reach their place of safety before the train arrives.

Question 4

A sentinel operating at a location with poor sightlines discovers they cannot see far enough to give adequate warning. What must they do?

Accepted Answer

Stop work immediately and inform the person in charge that the system of work cannot safely be used at that location

Answer

If sightlines are insufficient to give adequate warning, work must stop and the person in charge must be informed so an alternative safe system can be established.

Question 5

Can a sentinel also perform physical track work while carrying out lookout duties?

Accepted Answer

No — the sentinel must be dedicated solely to watching for trains and must not carry out any other task

Answer

The sentinel role requires undivided attention; any additional task would distract them and compromise the warning system.

PTS - Personal Track Safety Practice Test

PTS - Personal Track Safety Practice Test

PTS Sentinel Scheme and Fitness 4