What must an employee in charge verify before releasing a movement authority?

Releasing a movement authority involves a critical responsibility to ensure the safety of personnel and operations. The correct choice emphasizes the necessity for the employee in charge to ensure that all employees are clear of defined limits before allowing any movement. This verification is essential because it prevents accidents and ensures that no one is in harm’s way when the train is set in motion.

By confirming that work zones are clear and that employees have vacated areas where the train will operate, the dispatcher is taking essential precautionary measures. This action is part of a broader safety protocol that prioritizes the wellbeing of all personnel involved in train operations.

While other considerations like time of day, weather conditions, and train schedule updates are important for operational efficiency and safety, the immediate verification of personnel clearance is the foremost requirement prior to releasing a movement authority. This ensures that all safety protocols are adhered to and that no incidents occur related to human presence in hazardous areas.