For a hand-operated switch move, which action best ensures you are lined for the route before proceeding?

• A. Line switch for your route.
• B. Confirm the switch is lined for your route before movement.
• C. Return the switch to the normal position after movement.
• D. Stand clear until the movement is complete.

Answer: (B)

Before moving a hand-operated switch, you must confirm the switch is lined for the route you intend to take. This means checking that the points are correctly set to the track you’ll enter and that the switch is locked so the setting won’t shift while you move. Verifying this ensures you’ll actually be on the intended route and helps prevent derailments or conflicts with other traffic. Simply initiating the lining or relying on an assumption can be risky if the switch isn’t truly lined and secured. Returning the switch to normal after movement or standing clear during movement don’t address the necessary pre-move check. Confirming the switch is lined for your route before movement is the essential safety step.