Who is responsible for maintaining a safe braking distance between on-track equipment?

The operator of on-track equipment is responsible for maintaining a safe braking distance. This responsibility is critical because the operator must be constantly aware of the surrounding environment and potential hazards while operating the equipment. Maintaining a safe braking distance helps to ensure that if an emergency situation arises, the operator can bring the equipment to a stop without colliding with other trains, vehicles, or obstacles on the track. This practice is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both personnel and equipment on the railway.

The role does not fall to the conductor or the dispatcher, as they may have different focus areas such as overall train operations and traffic management. The maintenance supervisor's responsibilities typically revolve around ensuring that the equipment is in good working condition rather than its operation in real-time scenarios. Therefore, the operator's direct involvement in the management of the equipment and its interaction with the track system underscores why they hold this responsibility for safe braking distances.