Which of the following actions best supports safe work near tracks?

• A. Leave the risk assessment unreviewed.
• B. Obtain authority to occupy track, review risk assessment, and establish protection measures.
• C. Work during peak train operations.
• D. Disregard protective measures.

Answer: (B)

Working near tracks requires formal control: you must have authority to occupy the track, you must review the risk assessment to understand hazards and required protections, and you must establish protection measures before any work starts. Having authority means you’re cleared by the rail operator to be on or near the track, preventing unauthorized entry. Reviewing the risk assessment keeps you aware of conditions like traffic schedules and site layout so you can apply the right controls. Establishing protection measures means putting in place safeguards such as exclusion zones, barriers, a lookout, clear communications with control, and any required permits. Together, these steps create a controlled, accountable setup that minimizes exposure to moving trains and other hazards. Skipping risk review leaves unknown hazards unaddressed, working during peak operations increases exposure, and ignoring protection measures removes the safeguards that keep people safe.