Engineer Recertification Practice Exam

When laying up a train, applying hand brakes and shutting off the lights is essential for ensuring safety and stability. By engaging the hand brakes, you prevent the train from rolling, particularly on inclines, and help secure it in place after it comes to a stop. This action is critical, as it provides a reliable method to hold the train, especially if it's left unattended for any period.

Shutting off the lights is also a protocol that contributes to the safety of the area by conserving energy and indicating that the train is not in active operation. Properly shutting down systems helps in maintaining the integrity of the equipment and minimizes the risk of accidents, as lights may distract or mislead other operators or personnel.

While the other options relate to train operations, their focus is different. Maintaining power until all cars are stopped might lead to unnecessary energy consumption or operational hazards. Checking air pressure is important during routine checks but not a primary step in the immediate context of laying up. Notifying the Trainmaster is a procedural step that may be necessary, but the immediate physical actions of securing the train must take precedence to ensure safety.