What is the minimum number of hand brakes that must be applied on the lead controlling locomotive when leaving within yards equipped with derail protection?

What is the minimum number of hand brakes that must be applied on the lead controlling locomotive when leaving within yards equipped with derail protection?

• A. One
• B. Two
• C. Three
• D. Four

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that a hand brake provides a mechanical hold that’s independent of the air brake system, used to keep a locomotive and its consist from moving when you’re setting up or departing. In yards that are protected by derail devices, those derails act as a physical safeguard against an unintended move off the yard tracks. Because of that built-in protection, the rule sets the minimum requirement as one hand brake on the lead locomotive when leaving the yard. This single hand brake is enough to hold the locomotive while you prepare to move and while the air brakes are tested or charged. Extra hand brakes aren’t required by this rule for leaving a derail-protected yard, though you would follow company procedures that might call for more under other conditions.

The main idea is that a hand brake provides a mechanical hold that’s independent of the air brake system, used to keep a locomotive and its consist from moving when you’re setting up or departing. In yards that are protected by derail devices, those derails act as a physical safeguard against an unintended move off the yard tracks. Because of that built-in protection, the rule sets the minimum requirement as one hand brake on the lead locomotive when leaving the yard. This single hand brake is enough to hold the locomotive while you prepare to move and while the air brakes are tested or charged. Extra hand brakes aren’t required by this rule for leaving a derail-protected yard, though you would follow company procedures that might call for more under other conditions.