At switch(es) not equipped with bolt lock or electric lock, the crew member must promptly __________ and then wait ___________ before starting train movement?

• A. operate the switch(es) / 5 minutes
• B. set the switch(es) to lined / 3 minutes
• C. inspect the switch(es) for damage / 10 minutes
• D. operate the switch(es) with a key / 2 minutes

Answer: (A)

When a switch on the main line isn’t equipped with a bolt lock or electric lock, you must actively verify the switch position before moving the train. The approved procedure is to promptly operate the switch to the intended position, then wait five minutes before starting movement. This waiting period gives time for the switch to settle and for any misalignment or unexpected movement to become apparent, reducing the risk of a derailment or wrong-route movement.

The other options don’t fit because they either describe different actions (like just setting the switch to lined, which doesn’t confirm actual position), use an inappropriate interval, or imply using a locking key that isn’t present on these switches.