What must employees visually confirm when verifying a hand-operated switch?

What must employees visually confirm when verifying a hand-operated switch?

• A. That the switch points fit properly
• B. That the target corresponds with the switch's positions
• C. Both A and B
• D. None of the above

Answer: (C)

When verifying a hand-operated switch, you must confirm two things: the switch points are properly aligned and seated against the rails, and the switch target (indicator) shows the same position as the points. This ensures the track is physically set for the intended route and that the visible indication matches that setting. If the points aren’t properly aligned, the wheels could ride the wrong rails; if the target doesn’t reflect the actual position, you could misread the switch and proceed on the wrong track. For a safe, correct verification, both checks are required.

When verifying a hand-operated switch, you must confirm two things: the switch points are properly aligned and seated against the rails, and the switch target (indicator) shows the same position as the points. This ensures the track is physically set for the intended route and that the visible indication matches that setting. If the points aren’t properly aligned, the wheels could ride the wrong rails; if the target doesn’t reflect the actual position, you could misread the switch and proceed on the wrong track. For a safe, correct verification, both checks are required.