What is required before a Roadway Worker can start work on a track?

Before a Roadway Worker can start work on a track, it is essential for them to obtain a unique number from the Operations Control Center. This number acts as a safety protocol to ensure that all work activities are tracked and coordinated with train operations. Having a unique number enables the Operations Control Center to maintain awareness of who is working where on the tracks, which helps to prevent accidents or collisions with trains.

While a flagger, a manual inspection of the track, and a safety briefing from the crew are all important safety measures, they are not the primary requirement that must be fulfilled before a Roadway Worker can begin their work. The unique number serves as a critical step in the communication process between the workers and the train operations control, ensuring everyone involved is informed and that necessary precautions are taken for safety.