What must employees avoid when operating an electrically locked switch?

When operating an electrically locked switch, it is essential for employees to avoid unlocking the switch without the proper authority. This is critical because each switch is secured to ensure the safety and operational integrity of train movements. Unauthorized unlocking can lead to accidents, collisions, or other dangerous scenarios, as it compromises the established safety protocols that protect both employees and train operations.

Maintaining strict adherence to authority when it comes to unlocking switches is a key part of the operational protocols in place within railway systems. Employees are trained to follow these guidelines to ensure that only qualified personnel can alter the state of a switch, thus preserving safety and functionality of the rail system. Authority typically comes from proper communication and clearance from operations or control centers, which ensures that every action is accounted for and within regulatory compliance.