If you receive conflicting instructions from a dispatcher, what should you do?

• A. Proceed with the instruction that came first.
• B. Do not proceed; request clarification and only act when the conflict is resolved.
• C. Follow both instructions if possible.
• D. Ignore both and stop.

Answer: (B)

When dispatcher orders conflict, safety requires you to pause and seek a single, clear instruction before acting. The dispatcher’s commands are authoritative, but mixed or contradictory directions create a dangerous situation where movement could put the crew, equipment, or others at risk. So you stop, request clarification, and you proceed only after the conflict is resolved and a definite direction is given.

In practice, you’d radio the dispatcher to point out that there are conflicting commands and ask for a unified instruction. It’s helpful to repeat back what you’ve heard to confirm you understand the resolution, then proceed with the train only after you’ve received a single, unambiguous directive and ensured all safety protections are in place.

Options that suggest proceeding with the first instruction, trying to follow both, or ignoring both miss the essential point: you must resolve the conflict before moving to maintain a safe operation.