What is the first step when you observe a brake test failure?

• A. Try the test again immediately.
• B. Report immediately, isolate the failure, and follow the dispatcher’s corrective instructions.
• C. Note the failure and continue as if nothing happened.
• D. Inform only the crew and proceed.

Answer: (B)

When a brake test shows a failure, safety and proper authority depend on acting to control the situation first. The correct step is to report the failure to the dispatcher immediately, isolate the faulty portion of the train so it cannot affect movement, and then follow the dispatcher’s corrective instructions. This sequence ensures the incident is documented, any risk is contained, and you receive authorized guidance on how to proceed, which may include re-testing after the fault is addressed or routing the train to a repair location. Retrying the test or continuing without clearance can mask a serious problem and create a downstream safety risk, so those options aren’t appropriate.