If a trackman finds a badly worn rail, what should he do?

When a trackman discovers a badly worn rail, notifying a superior is the most appropriate action to take. This ensures that the issue is addressed in a timely manner by those with the authority and expertise to assess the situation and implement necessary repairs. Worn rails can pose serious safety hazards, including derailments or equipment damage, so prompt communication is vital for maintaining track safety.

Reporting to a superior allows for the collection of all relevant information about the condition of the rail and the context in which it was found. This higher-level oversight can lead to a coordinated response, which might include a maintenance crew's evaluation and subsequent repair or replacement of the rail, ensuring that the safety of operations is prioritized.

Other options, such as ignoring the issue, attempting to fix it without proper authorization, or merely documenting it for a later inspection, do not prioritize immediate action. Ignoring the problem can lead to increased safety risks, while unauthorized repairs might worsen the situation or violate safety protocols. Documentation is important, but it does not address the immediate need for action in the case of critical rail wear. Thus, notifying a superior is the correct course of action to ensure proper safety measures are enacted.