What is a key responsibility of employees during switching operations?

During switching operations, a key responsibility of employees is to avoid damage to the contents of cars and adjacent property. This is critical to ensuring that all cargo is transported safely and securely, preventing potential loss or damage to goods and materials. Proper care during switching operations minimizes the risk of accidents that could lead to costly repairs or liability issues. Employees are trained to handle the equipment and cars with precision and caution, maintaining awareness of their surroundings to protect both the cargo and surrounding property.

While maintaining a slow speed is important in certain situations, it must be balanced with the need to complete tasks efficiently and safely, which means simply adhering to a slow speed without considering other factors may not always be appropriate. Similarly, increasing the pace of operations without regard for safety and care can lead to accidents or damage, which contradicts the primary responsibility of protecting cargo. Lastly, leaving equipment anywhere along the tracks does not align with safe operational practices, as proper placement and securement of equipment are essential for overall safety and efficiency in rail operations.