What should a train engineer do if they encounter a malfunctioning emergency brake?

Notifying the control center immediately is the appropriate action when encountering a malfunctioning emergency brake. This step is crucial because the control center can provide guidance based on the situation and initiate the necessary safety protocols. They are responsible for coordinating the response to emergencies and can mobilize resources, including dispatching emergency services or instructing the engineer on the next steps.

Continuing to operate the train could pose a significant safety risk, as it may endanger passengers and crew if the emergency brake is needed for a critical situation, such as an upcoming stop or in case of an imminent hazard.

Performing a manual inspection might seem logical, but in an emergency scenario like this, time is of the essence. Delaying action to check the brakes could lead to disastrous consequences. Thus, the focus should be on immediate communication with the control center.

Waiting for instructions from a supervisor could also lead to delays that are unacceptable in an emergency situation, as immediate action needs to be taken to ensure safety. Therefore, promptly informing the control center is the best course of action in this scenario.