Train Driver Crew Communication and Protocols 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the standard radio communication protocol when a train driver receives a track authority?
- Repeat back the entire authority verbatim to confirm understanding before proceeding (Correct answer)
- Acknowledge with 'Roger' and proceed immediately
- Write the authority down and confirm at the next signal
- Accept the authority and read it back only if requested
Correct answer: Repeat back the entire authority verbatim to confirm understanding before proceeding
A complete read-back of track authority is required to confirm accuracy before any movement is made.
Question 2: What does 'two-way end-of-train device' (EOT) communicate to the locomotive?
- Brake pipe pressure at the rear of the train and allows emergency brake activation from the rear (Correct answer)
- The speed of the last car in the consist
- The weight distribution of the train from rear to front
- Whether the rear car's handbrakes are engaged
Correct answer: Brake pipe pressure at the rear of the train and allows emergency brake activation from the rear
The two-way EOT monitors rear brake pipe pressure and can be commanded to dump air for emergency braking from the train's rear end.
Question 3: What is the meaning of one long horn blast followed by three short blasts at a grade crossing?
- This is not a standard grade crossing signal — the standard is two long, one short, one long (Correct answer)
- The train is stopping at the crossing
- The train requires emergency assistance at the crossing
- The crossing signal equipment has malfunctioned
Correct answer: This is not a standard grade crossing signal — the standard is two long, one short, one long
The standard US grade crossing horn pattern is two long blasts, one short, and one long (– – · –), not one long and three short.
Question 4: What does the conductor's 'highball' signal mean to the train driver?
- The train is clear to proceed — all personnel are aboard and the train is ready to depart (Correct answer)
- Reduce speed immediately — an obstruction is ahead
- The train has passed the final car inspection checkpoint
- The locomotive is authorized to cut off and run light
Correct answer: The train is clear to proceed — all personnel are aboard and the train is ready to depart
A highball signal (arm raised vertically and waved) is the all-clear indication that the train is ready to depart.
Question 5: What is the purpose of a 'job briefing' before a train crew begins their assignment?
- To review the route, special instructions, track conditions, and emergency procedures as a team (Correct answer)
- To assign duties and collect timecards before departure
- To complete the mandatory pre-trip inspection log
- To verify that all crew members hold valid certifications
Correct answer: To review the route, special instructions, track conditions, and emergency procedures as a team
A job briefing ensures all crew members share the same understanding of the route, hazards, special orders, and responsibilities before departure.
Question 6: What does 'Rule G' refer to in traditional railroad operating rules?
- The prohibition on the use of alcohol and drugs while on duty or within a specified period before reporting (Correct answer)
- The requirement to follow signal indications at all times
- The rule governing the use of radio communications
- The operating rule requiring written track authorities
Correct answer: The prohibition on the use of alcohol and drugs while on duty or within a specified period before reporting
Rule G is the historic railroad operating rule prohibiting employees from being under the influence of alcohol or drugs while on duty.
Train Driver Crew Communication and Protocols 1
What is the standard radio communication protocol when a train driver receives a track authority?