What is the procedure if the whistle becomes inoperative?

In the event that the whistle becomes inoperative, the appropriate procedure is to proceed at restricted speed and contact control. This is crucial for maintaining safety while ensuring that communication is established about the situation. Operating at restricted speed allows the train operator to have better control and reaction time, especially in areas where visibility may be compromised or where there may be pedestrians, vehicles, or other hazards near the tracks.

Contacting control is essential because it alerts the appropriate authorities about the malfunction, allowing them to assess the situation and provide guidance or take necessary actions. This may include dispatching maintenance personnel or advising on alternative protocols to manage the train's journey safely. Ensuring that the control center is informed also helps in coordinating responses for any potential safety issues that may arise as a result of the inoperative whistle.

Other options, such as continuing to operate normally or notifying passengers prior to taking action, could compromise safety and fail to communicate the seriousness of the equipment failure. Furthermore, switching to a backup whistle system is not always a feasible or available option, making the combination of restricted speed and communication with control the most prudent response to such a situation.