Tampering: Employees are prohibited from ?

• A. Breaking seals on interlocking appliances or other equipment, except when specifically authorized to do so.
• B. Wearing equipment not issued by the railroad
• C. Using a non-authorized radio frequency
• D. Carrying tools in pockets

Answer: (A)

Tampering focuses on altering or defeating safety systems by interfering with equipment that protects train movements. Breaking the seals on interlocking appliances or other equipment is prohibited because those seals ensure the signaling and interlocking remain in the correct, authorized state. Unauthorized breaking or bypassing of seals can lead to incorrect routing, signals, or misoperations, creating a serious safety hazard, which is why this action is specifically forbidden unless you have explicit authorization.

Wearing equipment not issued by the railroad, using a non-authorized radio frequency, or carrying tools in pockets are all rule or safety violations in their own right, but they do not involve tampering with interlocking devices or their protective seals. They pose safety or compliance concerns separately from the act of tampering with protected equipment.