What should an employee do when their duties affect yard movement and no yardmaster is on duty?

When an employee's duties impact yard movement and there is no yardmaster on duty, complying with instructions from the designated employee is the appropriate course of action. This approach ensures that operations continue smoothly and safely without compromising the integrity of the yard's activities.

The designated employee has the authority to manage yard movements in the absence of the yardmaster, making them the next point of contact for direction. Following their instructions helps maintain operational efficiency and safety, while also ensuring that all movements are coordinated and authorized.

Choosing to work independently or waiting for the yardmaster to return can lead to confusion, potential safety hazards, or derailments of scheduled operations. It is essential in such situations to rely on the authority that is present, which, in this case, is the designated employee's guidance.