What should be ensured before moving or adding to a train or equipment with a blue flag present?

Before moving or adding to a train or equipment with a blue flag present, it is crucial to ensure that all necessary safety measures are followed to protect both the workers and the operation itself. A blue flag is a safety signal indicating that repair work is in progress or that the area is occupied, and as such, specific protocols need to be adhered to:

• Confirming that the blue flag has been removed is essential because the presence of a blue flag indicates that the work area is not safe for movement. Removing it signifies that workers have completed their tasks and that the area is clear.

• Ensuring all workers are clear of the area is critical for preventing accidents. Even if the blue flag has been removed, workers may still be in the vicinity and need to be accounted for before any movement occurs.

• Checking for permission from the Train Dispatcher is also a necessary step, as it ensures coordination with the control center and confirms that it is safe to proceed without risk of colliding with other operations or personnel.

Thus, taking all these steps—confirming the removal of the blue flag, ensuring all workers are clear, and obtaining permission from the Train Dispatcher—ensures a comprehensive approach to safety before moving or adding to the train or equipment.