When granted joint track and time, what must be done if the track is not safe for trains to move at a speed of at least 20 mph?

When joint track and time is granted, it is crucial to ensure the safety of the track for train movements. If the track is deemed unsafe for trains to operate at a speed of at least 20 mph, protecting the track with red flags is necessary. This action alerts all personnel and approaching trains about the potential hazards present, effectively communicating that the area requires caution and may not support safe movement at the minimum specified speed.

Using red flags serves as a visual warning that denotes unsafe conditions. It is a proactive measure to prevent accidents or incidents that could arise from normal operations in an area where the track does not meet the required safety standards. This procedure is part of maintaining safe working conditions and follows protocols that emphasize safety first in all aspects of railway operations.

In contrast, simply posting a warning sign would likely not be sufficient to ensure safety, as it does not actively warn trains approaching the area. Skipping the requirement entirely fails to prioritize safety and could lead to hazardous situations. Allowing only manual operations could imply limitations in train movement that may not address the fundamental issue of track safety, making it less effective in terms of ensuring safe practices. Thus, protecting the track with red flags remains the most appropriate and effective response to unsafe track conditions.