On sections of track that do not serve regular passenger trains, what should a trackman do?

In situations where track maintenance is conducted on sections of track that do not regularly serve passenger trains, it is crucial for safety and operational efficiency that a trackman adheres to established protocols. Following the rules for passenger train operations is important because these rules are designed to ensure the safety of all personnel and any equipment that may be operating on or near the tracks, regardless of regular passenger service.

Even in less frequently used areas, there is always the possibility that trains, including freight trains or special service trains, might enter those sections. Applying the same standards as for passenger trains minimizes the risk of accidents or unsafe conditions. This discipline promotes consistency in operations and maintains an environment where all track workers can safely perform their duties without assuming that the absence of passenger trains means they can relax safety protocols.

Ignoring special rules, relying exclusively on verbal communication, or only conducting inspections as needed would potentially compromise safety. Therefore, adherence to passenger train operation rules in these situations is crucial for maintaining a safe work environment and ensuring readiness for unexpected conditions.