Question

At about 8:00 AM on a weekday, the train operator of a local train which is standing at a station sees a broken rail on the adjacent express track. The BEST immediate action is to apply the brakes in emergency and then ________.

1) Stop the train and wait for further instructions
2) Continue driving at a reduced speed
3) Switch to the other track and continue driving
4) Notify the control center and request assistance

Answer 1

The train operator should immediately apply emergency brakes and then notify the control center to request assistance. This is the safest protocol when encountering a broken rail or similar hazards.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a train operator spots a hazard on the tracks, such as a broken rail on an adjacent track, safety protocols must be followed to ensure the safety of everyone aboard and around the train. The immediate action for the operator should be to apply the brakes in emergency and then notify the control center and request assistance. This is crucial because it enables the train operator to inform the relevant authorities who can manage the situation appropriately. Continuing to drive, whether at a reduced speed or by switching tracks, without knowing the overall safety situation, can potentially lead to catastrophic consequences. It is also important to halt the train and not risk moving towards the problem area. This exemplifies the effectiveness of inventions like the air brake system, which allows for safer train operations across various scenarios.