Under what condition may trains pass a red flag or light without stopping?

Trains may pass a red flag or light without stopping if they have been granted verbal permission by the employee in charge of the flag. This protocol is essential for maintaining safety on the railway.

In a scenario where a red flag or light is displayed, it signals a condition that requires the train to stop under normal circumstances. However, the authority of the employee in charge is paramount, as they are responsible for overseeing the operations in that specific area and can assess the situation. If the employee determines that it is safe for the train to proceed, they can grant explicit permission. This ensures that both safety protocols are followed and operational efficiency is maintained when conditions allow.

The other options do not align with safe railway operations. Factors like urgency, flashing lights, or visibility of other trains do not override the necessity for proper authorization when dealing with signals that indicate caution or stop. Safety is prioritized in these situations to prevent accidents and ensure the highest standards of operation are followed.