Rail Car Repairer how-to

How to Work Under Blue Flag Protection

Blue flags protect workers from moving cars.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Blue flags protect workers from moving cars. In short: set; lock; notify, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Set the blue flag or light.

  2. Lock switches.

  3. Notify the yardmaster.

  4. Work only within protection.

  5. Remove only when done.

  6. Notify release.

Safety reminders for rail car repairers

  • Use blue flag protection
  • Wear PPE
  • Never step between moving cars
  • Follow lockout rules

Carman · Rolling stock · Coupler · Draft gear · Truck · Wheelset: see the full rail car repairer glossary.

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