When should malfunctioning radios be used?

Malfunctioning radios must not be used because their reliability is compromised, which can lead to dangerous situations on the job. Effective communication is critical for the safety of all personnel involved in maintenance of way operations. If a radio is malfunctioning, it cannot be trusted to deliver clear and accurate messages, which could impede situational awareness or lead to misunderstandings among team members.

Using a malfunctioning radio poses risks, as it may not transmit or receive important information, potentially leaving workers unaware of hazards or instructions. Therefore, the best practice is to rely on fully operational communication devices to ensure safe operations.