When is it permissible to move a locomotive by hand on main track?

• A. Only under explicit permission and with appropriate protection and risk controls.
• B. Whenever a yard switch is in view.
• C. When the locomotive is stationary and there are no other trains nearby.
• D. If the maintenance crew is present to guide it.

Answer: (A)

Moving a locomotive by hand on a main track is allowed only with explicit permission and the proper protection and risk controls in place. The safety idea is that main-track movements are interwoven with other train traffic, so any hand-propelled move must be formally authorized by the person in charge (like a supervisor or dispatcher) and accompanied by concrete protective measures. Explicit permission confirms who is authorizing the movement and ensures everyone knows to expect it. Protection and risk controls put safeguards in place—such as informing and coordinating with approaching trains, using a lookout or flag protection, clear communications, and securing the area so there’s a safe path for the movement and a reliable way to stop if something changes. Without these safeguards, even a slow, low-risk-seeming hand movement could collide with an oncoming train or expose workers to danger. Therefore, the only safe, compliant condition is when explicit authorization is given and the required protection and risk controls are in place.