Railroad Switch Operator how-to

How to Line a Railroad Switch Correctly

Wrong switches cause derailments.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Wrong switches cause derailments. In short: check; unlock; throw, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Check for movement.

  2. Unlock the switch.

  3. Throw it fully.

  4. Check the points.

  5. Lock it.

  6. Confirm the route.

Safety reminders for railroad switch operators

  • Never step between moving cars
  • Use three-step protection
  • Wear PPE
  • Watch footing

Switch · Lining a switch · Coupling · Knuckle · Air hose · Hand brake: see the full railroad switch operator glossary.

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