How must inspections of passing trains be performed?

Inspections of passing trains must be performed from the ground if a safe location is available. This practice allows maintenance of way personnel to have a clear and unobstructed view of the train, making it easier to identify any defects or issues such as mechanical failures, cargo security, or other potential safety hazards. Observing from the ground enables inspectors to assess the train's condition more accurately, ensuring the safety of both the inspection team and the train operations.

Choosing a safe location is critical, as the proximity to the track must allow for a safe viewing angle without putting the inspector at risk. Inspecting trains from the ground is often the preferred method in accordance with safety protocols, as it reduces the likelihood of accidents that could occur from improper inspection methods.

Though other methods, such as using binoculars or inspecting from an adjacent track, might provide visibility to some extent, they do not offer the same level of detail and safety as a ground inspection conducted from a safe location. Therefore, the correct approach emphasizes safety while ensuring comprehensive monitoring of the trains as they pass.