How should standing equipment be secured to prevent undesired movement?

Securing standing equipment effectively requires a combination of measures to ensure that it does not move unintentionally. Utilizing both hand brakes and air brakes provides a comprehensive approach to safety.

Hand brakes are commonly employed to physically apply friction to the wheels, helping to prevent movement, especially on grades or uneven surfaces. However, relying solely on hand brakes does not account for potential mechanical failures or the possibility that they may not be capable of holding a long train in place under all conditions.

Air brakes contribute another layer of security by applying pressure to the brake system throughout the train. This system is designed to work automatically and can provide additional stopping power that reinforces the effort of the hand brakes. Employing both systems in tandem ensures that if one fails, the other is still engaged to prevent movement.

In contrast to relying solely on air brakes or hand brakes, using both enhances safety and effectiveness, particularly in varied conditions that might affect a train's stability. Relying only on the weight of the cars is insufficient as a sole means of security because weight alone does not account for external forces such as wind or uneven tracks that could lead to undesired movement.