2025/2026. 100% Verified. 251Q&A.
What main track authorities apply to manual interlockings?
Verbal authority from the control operator or a controlled signal indicates proceed.
Absolute Signal.
A block or interlocking signal without a number plate, or designated by an "A" marker.
automatic block system (ABS).
A series of consecutive blocks governed by block signals, cab signals, or both. The signals are
activated by a train or by certain conditions that affect the block use.
block
A length of track:
-between consecutive block signals
-between a block signal and the end of the block system limits, or
-in ATC limits the use of which is governed by cab signals and/or block signals
block signal.
A fixed signal at the entrance of a block that governs trains entering and using that block.
block system.
A block or series of consecutive blocks within ABS, ACS, CTC, or interlocking limits.
centralized traffic control (CTC).
A block system that uses block signal indications to authorize train movements.
control point.
The location of absolute signals controlled by a control operator.
current of traffic.
The movement of trains in one direction on a main track, as specified by the rules.
Define double track.
Two main tracks where the current of traffic on one track is in a specified direction and in the
opposite direction on the other.
Define general track bulletin.
A notice containing track bulletin restrictions and other conditions affecting train movement.
Define interlocking.
Signal appliances that are interconnected so that each of their movements follows the other in
proper sequence. May be operated manually or automatically.
,Define main track.
A track extending through yards and between stations that must not be occupied without authority
or protection.
Define multiple main tracks.
Two or more main tracks that are used according to the timetable.
Define proceed indication.
Any block signal that allows a train to proceed without stopping.
Define track warrant control (TWC).
A method to authorize train movements or protect men or machines on a main track within
specified limits in a territory designated by the timetable.
Define trackside warning detector.
A device that indicates conditions such as overheated journals, dragging equipment, excess
dimensions, shifted loads, high water, or slides.
Define yard.
A system of tracks, other than main tracks and sidings, used for making up trains, storing cars, and
other purposes.
Define yard limits
A portion of main track designated by yard limit signs and timetable special instructions or a track
bulletin.
Who can issue or cancel a general order?
The designated manager.
What information is contained in general orders?
The information and instructions related to rules or operating practices.
How are general orders used?
They replace any rule, special instruction, or regulation that conflicts with them.
What must cars be checked for during a safety inspection?
Leaning, sagging, improper truck position, object hanging or dragging, objects extending from the
side, insecurely attached doors, broken or missing safety appliances, contents leaking, insecure
coupling devices, overheard journals or wheels, broken or cracked wheels, brakes that fail to release,
or any other apparent hazard that could cause an accident.
Who is responsible for the safety and protection of the train?
The conductor and engineer.
What must the conductor remind the engineer of?
Limits of authority, track warrants, track bulletins, and radio speed restrictions.
, When must the conductor inform an engineer of an upcoming restriction along their route?
After the train passes the last station before, but at least two miles from the restriction.
When mobile and transmitting or acknowledging a radio communication, what identification is
required?
Name or initials of railroad and train number, engine number, or words that identify the precise
mobile unit.
What are examples of mandatory directives?
Track warrants, track bulletins, DTC authority, track and time, track permits, and radio speed
restrictions. (must be written and not copied while in control of train).
True or false: A mandatory directive restricts a train's movement will not be issued near a point
where the restriction applies until the engineer or conductor confirms that the train can comply with
the restriction.
True.
When can you indicate "void" on a mandatory directive form?
When employee reports clear of authority limits or mandatory directive is made void.
How long must crew retain mandatory directives, including those that have been voided?
For continuous tour of duty, or as instructed by train dispatcher.
Before a mandatory directive is acted upon, what must occur?
The conductor and engineer must each have a written copy of the mandatory directive, and each
crew member must read and understand it.
If the person who is giving the signal to shove a train disappears, or the light being used disappears,
what must employees do?
Stop movement, unless the employee on the leading car controls the air brakes.
True or false: Any object waived violently by any person on or near the track is a signal to stop.
True.
When radio communication is used for shoving movement, what information must be specified to
the engineer?
The direction and distance, and distance must be specified when distance is more than four cars.
When using radio communication to make a shove, when must movement be stopped unless
additional instructions are received by the engineer?
Half the distance specified.
What aspect is used to indicate a temporary speed restriction?
A yellow flag.
Yellow-red flags are used to indicate what?