Switching Operations

Figure 3-4. Unsafe areas between coupler head and draft gear.

f. Switching Operations. Switching operations include coupling, uncoupling, coupling

air hoses, setting the hand brakes, releasing the hand brakes, chocking wheels, turnout

procedures, and derailer procedures.

(1) Coupling and uncoupling procedures. Observe the following when coupling or

uncoupling railcars:

No person other than a crew member shall couple or uncouple cars.

Before going between standing locomotives or railcars to couple or uncouple,

ensure slack has adjusted and train has stopped. If railcars are on a grade,

ensure they are secured (brakes set and wheels chocked).

When coupling railcars, the railcar or locomotive approaching shall be brought

to a full stop before reaching the railcar to be coupled. This distance between

the railcar or locomotive and the railcar to be coupled should be a minimum of

three (3) feet and a maximum of five (5) feet.

After the train has come to a full stop, open only one of the knuckles with the

cut lever. Stand clear of the knuckle since it could fall to the ground if the

knuckle pin is broken or missing. If it is necessary to adjust one of the

drawbars, follow the above procedures for moving between railcars. A ground

crew member shall signal the engineer to proceed at a slow speed to complete

the coupling.

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