Air Brakes and Train Handling Rules - Alaska Railroad

64 Train Handling64.5.1 Train Status InformationThe conductor or another train crew member must inform the engineerof the train’s status so the engineer can make appropriateoperating decisions. This status information includes:• Number of loaded and empty cars• Train length and tonnage• Number and location of cars loaded with hazardous materials, orhigh or wide loads• Any unusual conditions that might affect safe train operation,such as placing all empty cars at the head of the trainWhen the train is operating with an occupied caboose, the conductoror other train crew member at the rear of the train must provide thefollowing status information:• Release of air brakes and movement of the train when starting• Any severe slack action• Any abnormal change in rear brake pipe pressure64.5.2 Operating ConditionsSeveral factors affect the distance needed to slow, control, or stop atrain safely. These factors include:• Tons per operative brake• Speed• Severity of the grade• Type and axle limitations (if any) of the dynamic brake• Temperature and weather conditions• Throttle response• Amount and type of slack in the train64.5.3 Unusual ConditionsRecognize the proper procedures for unusual train handling conditions.64-12 ARRC Air Brakes and Train Handling Manual June 1, 1996