Practice Test Geeks(FRA) Federal Railroad Administration Certification Practice Test
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Track & Roadway Safety Flashcards

7 cards from real FRA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Track & Roadway Safety flashcards as text

  1. When a track inspector identifies a condition that requires an emergency speed restriction, the restriction is effective:

    Answer: Immediately upon discovery

    Emergency speed restrictions take effect immediately upon discovery of the hazardous condition to prevent accidents.

  2. Which type of crosstie condition is considered a 'Class 1' defective tie under FRA standards?

    Answer: A tie that is split and cannot hold a spike

    A tie that is split or deteriorated to the point where it cannot hold a spike to maintain gage is classified as defective and must be replaced.

  3. Superelevation on a curved track is designed primarily to:

    Answer: Counteract the centrifugal force on trains traveling through curves

    Superelevation (banking of the outer rail) is used to counteract centrifugal force and allow trains to traverse curves safely at higher speeds.

  4. What is the purpose of a joint bar in track construction?

    Answer: To connect two rail ends together and maintain alignment

    Joint bars (also called splice bars or angle bars) are bolted at the rail ends to connect them and maintain lateral and vertical alignment.

  5. Under FRA rules, which of the following conditions would result in a track being removed from service?

    Answer: A gage deviation of 1 inch over the allowable limit on any class of track

    A gage deviation exceeding the allowed tolerance by 1 inch is a condition that makes a track segment unfit for any service.

  6. The term 'track buckling' refers to:

    Answer: Lateral displacement of the track structure caused by thermal expansion

    Track buckling (sun kink) occurs when continuous welded rail expands from heat and the lateral resistance of the track is insufficient to contain it.

  7. When inspecting a railroad bridge for track safety purposes, which element is the inspector primarily concerned with regarding the approach track?

    Answer: The alignment and elevation transition between the bridge and the approach roadbed

    Approach track transitions must provide a smooth alignment and grade change to prevent sudden vertical or lateral shocks as trains enter the bridge.