FRA Locomotive Engineer key terms

A display used to warn that workers are on, under, or between rolling equipment, or that equipment must not be moved. It protects personnel during inspection, servicing, and repair.

A procedure in which a switch or control is secured and tagged so equipment cannot be operated while someone is working on it. The person applying the protection normally removes it.

The regulatory process by which a person is qualified and certified to operate a locomotive after meeting knowledge, skills, and testing requirements, and is subject to periodic recertification and revocation.

A document carried by a certified locomotive engineer showing the person is qualified to operate locomotives for the issuing railroad. It includes identifying information and must be presented when required.

Instruction given to a certified engineer, typically after a specified interval or after a skills decline, to restore or maintain proficiency in operating rules, train handling, and safety practices.

An unannounced or scheduled observation of an engineer's performance used to verify compliance with operating rules and safe train handling. Results can affect certification status.

A formal check of how well a person applies operating rules and procedures, such as a ride-along or rules examination. It documents whether required knowledge and skills are being used correctly.

The withdrawal of an engineer's certification after serious rule violations, drug or alcohol violations, or failure to meet certification requirements. The person cannot operate until recertified.

A temporary removal of certification or operating privileges, often for a defined period or pending investigation. The engineer may not operate locomotives until the suspension is lifted.

The formal process by which an engineer may challenge a disciplinary or certification action. It provides notice, an opportunity to respond, and a decision that can be reviewed.

Required testing of safety-sensitive employees for prohibited substances, including pre-employment, random, reasonable-suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty, and follow-up testing. Positive results can affect certification.

A documented belief, based on specific observations, that an employee may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It must be reported and handled under the testing rules.

The technique of controlling a train's speed, slack action, and braking to keep it safe and smooth. It includes throttle and brake use, grade management, and awareness of train makeup.

The relative movement between coupled cars caused by changes in speed or grade. Excessive slack action can damage lading, part cars, or cause derailments, so it must be managed carefully.

A method of slowing a train by using the traction motors as generators, which converts motion into electrical energy and dissipates it as heat. It reduces reliance on air brakes, especially on grades.

The brake valve that controls only the locomotive's own brakes, separate from the train brakes. It is used for holding, spotting, and controlling the locomotive during switching.

The brake system that applies brakes on the locomotive and all cars in the train through a reduction in brake pipe pressure. It is the primary means of stopping and controlling a train.

The main air line running the length of the train that carries pressure changes used to signal brake applications and releases. A loss of pressure generally causes an emergency brake application.

A rapid, maximum reduction of brake pipe pressure that applies brakes fully and quickly. It is used to avoid imminent danger and must be handled correctly to prevent damage or derailment.

A track device placed over the rail that physically guides wheels off the track to prevent equipment from moving onto a protected track. It is used to protect workers or prevent runaway movement.

The movable rail at a turnout that directs wheels onto one route or the other. Engineers must confirm its position and that it is properly lined before moving through a switch.

The location near a track where equipment standing on one track is too close to another track and could be struck by passing trains. Engineers must not pass it until the route is clear.

The point beyond which a train or car is safely clear of an adjacent track. It is used to judge when equipment can stand without fouling another track.

A designated area where trains and engines may move under yard rules rather than main track authority. Movement is still governed by restricted speed and special instructions.

A speed that allows a train to stop short of any obstruction, such as a train, car, or misaligned switch, given the conditions. It is often required in yards and during certain signal indications.

A track designated for through train movements, usually under signal or authority rules. Entering or occupying it requires proper authority and compliance with signals and instructions.

A written or transmitted authority that grants a train the right to occupy a segment of main track between specified limits. It states the limits, direction, and any restrictions.

A formal notice of temporary or permanent instructions, such as speed restrictions, track conditions, or rule changes. Engineers must read and comply with applicable bulletins before operating.

A published directive that supplements or modifies operating rules for a specific location or situation. It must be followed along with the general rules and any applicable bulletins.

A fixed signal that governs movement into a defined block of track. Its indication tells the engineer whether to proceed, proceed at reduced speed, or stop.

A signal whose stop indication must not be passed without specific authority, even if the track appears clear. It protects against conflicting movements and is used at interlockings and junctions.

A location where switches and signals are arranged so conflicting routes cannot be set at the same time. It protects movements at junctions and crossings through coordinated signal control.

The device at each end of a car or locomotive that connects equipment together. Engineers must ensure couplings are secure and that couplers are aligned before moving equipment.

The flexible connection between cars that carries brake pipe air. Proper coupling and condition of air hoses are essential for brake control and for detecting leaks or separation.

The required pre-departure and periodic examination of a locomotive's brakes, lights, safety devices, and running gear. Defects must be handled before the unit is used.

An uncontrolled movement of equipment, often caused by a failure to secure it with brakes or by a grade. Preventing runaways requires proper securement and verification of brake application.

The act of setting sufficient hand brakes and other devices so unattended equipment cannot move. The number of brakes and conditions must meet the applicable rules.

Cargo that poses a risk to health or safety, such as flammables, corrosives, or toxics. Engineers must know placement, handling, and emergency response requirements for these shipments.

The practices and rules that limit hours on duty and ensure adequate rest so engineers stay alert. Fatigue impairs judgment and reaction time and is a recognized safety risk.