How must a track condition restricting movement to less than 10 MPH be protected?

The correct approach for protecting a track condition that restricts movement to less than 10 MPH involves using yellow-red and red flags. This method is established to ensure safety and provide clear visual signals to train crews regarding the restricted area.

Using flags, particularly yellow-red for caution and red for stop, is a well-recognized standard in rail operations. This visual indication allows approaching trains to be alerted to the reduced speed condition, thereby enabling them to slow down and navigate the area safely. The flags serve as immediate and effective markers that help prevent accidents by ensuring that train crews are aware of the necessary precautions as they approach the affected section.

Other means of communication, such as verbal notifications or physical signage, may not provide the same level of immediacy or clarity as flags do, especially in high-speed or high-traffic environments where timing is critical. Therefore, employing flags is the most effective method for ensuring safe operations under these specific track conditions.