What is the Rail Shorting Device used for?

• A. To connect signals to power
• B. To short circuit overhead should power be restored before works complete
• C. To measure continuity on a circuit
• D. To insulate live conductors

Answer: (B)

Rail Shorting Device is a safety tool used during work on electrified track to prevent dangerous backfeed if power is restored before the job is finished. It creates a controlled short between the overhead live conductor and the return path (the rails/earth). This causes the protection system to trip and drop the voltage quickly, keeping the work area dead and reducing the risk of shock or arcing. It isn’t used to power signals, measure continuity, or insulate live conductors.