What happens if the time limit for track and time expires and the employee cannot reach the control operator?

When the time limit for track and time expires, the authority is indeed void. This means that the initial permission to occupy the track has lapsed, and the train or movement does not have the right to continue until it is re-established.

In this situation, if an employee is unable to reach the control operator before the expiration of that time limit, standard practice requires that they cannot continue to operate under the previously granted authority. Instead, the proper procedure is to come to a stop and await further instructions. Therefore, an extension of the authority is not allowed based solely on the inability to make contact.

Additionally, all movements must stop in the absence of valid authorization, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols and adherence to established rules. The correct action to take if the time limit expires is for the employee to ensure safety procedures are followed, rather than assuming authority is extended or that movement should continue.