After the dispatcher acknowledges your repeat of instructions to restore power on a switch, how should you comply?

• A. Return to power immediately
• B. Comply, return to power once one unit or car is past the switch
• C. Delay and inform dispatcher
• D. Do not restore power

Answer: (B)

When a dispatcher has repeated instructions to restore power on a switch, you follow that directive exactly and take the safety step they require. In this case, power should be restored only after at least one unit or car has passed the switch. The purpose is to keep the switch clear of equipment and people, so energizing the switch while a car is occupying or approaching the switch could move the switch points unexpectedly or cause a derailment risk. Waiting for a unit or car to pass ensures the switch area is clear and the system can operate normally and safely.

Restoring power immediately would introduce that risk, and delaying beyond what was stated isn’t necessary since the dispatcher confirmed the instruction. Not restoring power at all would ignore the directive.