Under what circumstances can a train maintain its speed despite facing Maintenance of Way employees?

A train can maintain its speed despite the presence of Maintenance of Way (MOW) employees after obtaining the necessary permission from a dispatcher. This is important because the dispatcher is responsible for ensuring the safety of all trains and personnel on the tracks. The dispatcher has the complete situational awareness regarding train movements and work performed by MOW crews, and they can assess the risks involved.

When permission is granted, the dispatcher has likely evaluated factors such as the distance of the train from the workers, the speed of the train, and any other operational constraints that allow for safe passage. This coordination ensures that trains do not endanger workers on the tracks and helps maintain the flow of rail traffic in a safe manner.

In contrast, if a train is to maintain speed based solely on visibility of employees, it could lead to unsafe conditions if those employees are not aware of the approaching train or if their activity requires a stop. Permissions and operational signals must prioritize safety over speed to prevent accidents. Other options could imply scenarios where safety is not fully considered, hence are not aligned with the operational protocols established to protect both the crews and the railway infrastructure.