What must employees or on-track equipment do before occupying main track where OCS is in effect?

Obtaining authority from the train dispatcher is essential when employees or on-track equipment intend to occupy the main track where On-Track Safety (OTS) is in effect. The train dispatcher holds the vital responsibility of coordinating track usage and ensuring safety on the main track. This procedure is crucial as it allows the dispatcher to manage all train movements effectively and prevent potential conflicts that could arise if multiple entities attempt to use the same track simultaneously.

This step is not merely a procedural requirement but a safety measure that helps to ensure that all parties are aware of one another, with the dispatcher providing the necessary information regarding the status of the track and the presence of any other trains. It is crucial for maintaining the overall safety and efficiency of rail operations.

The other options do not provide this level of assurance in terms of safety and coordination. While notifying crew members and checking for other trains are important practices, they cannot replace the need for official authorization from the dispatcher. Reporting to the nearest station may be useful in certain scenarios but does not address the requirement to obtain authority when occupying the main track with OCS in effect.