What must a lone worker do prior to fouling the track?

Prior to fouling the track, a lone worker must identify a place of safety. This is crucial because it ensures that the worker has an escape route or a safe area to move to in case a train or equipment approaches unexpectedly. The identification of a place of safety is a fundamental safety measure that aims to minimize the risks associated with working near live tracks. It emphasizes the importance of being prepared and aware of one's surroundings in a potentially hazardous environment.

While notifying the dispatcher is an important aspect of communication in some situations, it is not always necessary for a lone worker before fouling a track. Wearing a safety vest is important for visibility and safety but does not provide a strategic plan for safety like identifying a safe location does. Calling for assistance may be required in certain circumstances but does not replace the immediate need for the worker to ensure their own safety by knowing where to go if a train approaches. By identifying a place of safety first, a lone worker prioritizes their own well-being in a high-risk environment.