What should you do before proceeding to ride on moving equipment?

Before riding on moving equipment, ensuring that the engineer acknowledges your intent is crucial for safety and coordination on the railways. This step is essential because the engineer is responsible for the operation of the train and must be aware of any movements or actions by the crew members to maintain safety and prevent accidents. By confirming your intent with the engineer, you help create a clear line of communication, which is vital in a dynamic environment like a rail yard or on a moving train.

While notifying the conductor and being aware of other crew members are important aspects of teamwork and safety, they do not specifically address the immediate need for the engineer's acknowledgment in this context. Waiting for the equipment to stop may not be practical in certain operational situations where moving on equipment is necessary for ongoing tasks. Thus, the requirement for the engineer's acknowledgment stands out as the most critical step before proceeding.