Union Pacific - Switching Exam Questions with and Answers with
Verified Solutions | Latest 2026 Update
Q: What is normal position of spring switch where double track begins?
Answer:
With current of traffic What color will the target show on *main track switches*, (if
equipped), when the switch is lined in other than normal position? Red (Rule 8.3)
After lining the switch for a train to enter or leave the main track, where must the
employee attending the switch be positioned? Opposite side of the main track Where
must an employee stand if unable to go to the opposite side of the track? At least 20
feet from the switch stand When possible where must the employee get off
equipment when restoring a main track switch to the normal position? Get off on
opposite side from switch stand Except in switching movements, when a train is
approaching or passing, how far must employees remain from a main track switch?
No nearer than 20 feet When a train or engine that will be met or passed is on a
siding or other track, if possible, how far must the employee attending the switch be?
No nearer than 150 feet How are spring switches identified? Letter "S" or "SS",
special targets, signs, or lights How is a spring switch tested? By lining switch over
and back by hand examining the switch points to see that they fit properly.
, Q: What conditions require a crew member to test a spring switch when making a
facing movement?
Answer:
*1)* When block signal governing movement over switch indicates *Stop* or
Restricted Proceed*. 2)* Switch Point indicator protecting switch indicates to Stop
and Inspect switch or Switch is not protected by a block signal or switch point
indicator. What must a train or engine do when trailing through/stopping on a spring
switch? Must control slack What is required before a train can change direction or
take slack? Crew member must line switch by hand before train or engine can change
direction or take slack. What is required when a trailing movement is made through a
spring switch during snow or ice storms or other conditions which may prevent the
switch from operating properly? Avoid making trailing movement through spring
switch until switch has been lined by hand for movement. What is required if a
spring switch is spiked? Must be protected What conditions allow a train in
non-signaled territory to proceed when approaching the facing points of a spring
switch? Until a spring switch indicator shows switch is properly lined or Distant
Signal displays "clear". Switch Point Aspect: Green Switch points fit properly in
normal position Switch Point Aspect: Yellow Switch points fit properly in Reverse
position. Switch Point Aspect: Red or Dark Stop and inspect switch
Verified Solutions | Latest 2026 Update
Q: What is normal position of spring switch where double track begins?
Answer:
With current of traffic What color will the target show on *main track switches*, (if
equipped), when the switch is lined in other than normal position? Red (Rule 8.3)
After lining the switch for a train to enter or leave the main track, where must the
employee attending the switch be positioned? Opposite side of the main track Where
must an employee stand if unable to go to the opposite side of the track? At least 20
feet from the switch stand When possible where must the employee get off
equipment when restoring a main track switch to the normal position? Get off on
opposite side from switch stand Except in switching movements, when a train is
approaching or passing, how far must employees remain from a main track switch?
No nearer than 20 feet When a train or engine that will be met or passed is on a
siding or other track, if possible, how far must the employee attending the switch be?
No nearer than 150 feet How are spring switches identified? Letter "S" or "SS",
special targets, signs, or lights How is a spring switch tested? By lining switch over
and back by hand examining the switch points to see that they fit properly.
, Q: What conditions require a crew member to test a spring switch when making a
facing movement?
Answer:
*1)* When block signal governing movement over switch indicates *Stop* or
Restricted Proceed*. 2)* Switch Point indicator protecting switch indicates to Stop
and Inspect switch or Switch is not protected by a block signal or switch point
indicator. What must a train or engine do when trailing through/stopping on a spring
switch? Must control slack What is required before a train can change direction or
take slack? Crew member must line switch by hand before train or engine can change
direction or take slack. What is required when a trailing movement is made through a
spring switch during snow or ice storms or other conditions which may prevent the
switch from operating properly? Avoid making trailing movement through spring
switch until switch has been lined by hand for movement. What is required if a
spring switch is spiked? Must be protected What conditions allow a train in
non-signaled territory to proceed when approaching the facing points of a spring
switch? Until a spring switch indicator shows switch is properly lined or Distant
Signal displays "clear". Switch Point Aspect: Green Switch points fit properly in
normal position Switch Point Aspect: Yellow Switch points fit properly in Reverse
position. Switch Point Aspect: Red or Dark Stop and inspect switch
