WMATA Rail Systems 3

Question 1

When a Metrorail train must be evacuated in a tunnel, passengers should generally be directed toward:

Accepted Answer

The nearest station along the safest path away from hazards

Answer

Evacuation moves passengers to the nearest station by the safest route away from danger.

Question 2

What does a switch (turnout) allow a train to do?

Accepted Answer

Move from one track to another

Answer

A switch guides a train from one track onto a diverging track.

Question 3

The 'foul time' or 'foul zone' near a track refers to the area where a worker:

Accepted Answer

Could be struck by a passing train

Answer

The fouling zone is the space where a person could be hit by a moving train.

Question 4

On rail systems, a 'dead man' control or alerter requires the operator to:

Accepted Answer

Periodically respond to prove they are alert

Answer

An alerter forces periodic operator response and stops the train if there is none.

Question 5

Why are rail expansion joints used on track?

Accepted Answer

To accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of the rail

Answer

Expansion joints allow rail to lengthen and shorten with temperature changes.

WMATA Test Practice Test