What must crew members refrain from doing when going between rail equipment?

Crew members must refrain from operating controls without permission when going between rail equipment to maintain safety and avoid accidents. Operating controls can lead to unintended movement of the equipment, which can dangerously affect crew members who might be between trains or near the equipment. It is crucial for personnel to communicate and coordinate actions to ensure everyone’s safety. This practice protects not only the crew but also prevents any disruption or hazard that could arise from unauthorized equipment operation.

Other practices, while important for overall safety, do not encompass the immediate risks associated with operating train controls. For instance, leaving tools outside the train can lead to trip hazards, and using sound signals is essential for communication, especially in a noisy environment. Making physical contact with the rail can vary in safety depending on the situation, but it is not as directly related to potential accidents as unauthorized control operation. Therefore, ensuring that crew members do not operate controls without permission is critically important for the safe management of rail equipment.