What must be confirmed by the crew when releasing a track and time?

When releasing a track and time, it is essential for the crew to confirm with the control operator that the employee in the field confirms back. This process ensures that all parties have a clear understanding of the current situation on the track, including any work being performed and the safety of operations before the track can be released. This confirmation serves as a safety check, ensuring that the correct procedures are followed and that the intended release does not compromise the safety or control of train operations.

In railway operations, communication is critical, and having the field employee confirm back provides a clear line of accountability. This step helps prevent misunderstandings that could lead to unsafe conditions, as it closes the loop on the track and time release protocol.

The other choices, while they may involve aspects of general communication or safety, do not specifically address the critical requirement for confirmation from the field employee to the control operator that is necessary for safely releasing a track and time.