What term is used for a blockage of the line that makes it unsafe for rail traffic?

What term is used for a blockage of the line that makes it unsafe for rail traffic?

• A. Detour
• B. Clearance
• C. Obstruction
• D. Signal fault

Answer: (C)

Blockages on the track that make a line unsafe for trains are called obstructions. This describes a physical barrier on the rails—like debris, a fallen tree, or a derailed vehicle—that stops safe train movement and requires the area to be protected and cleared before services can continue. A detour refers to an alternate route around the blockage, not the blockage itself. A clearance is permission to proceed after ensuring it’s safe, which comes after handling the obstruction or choosing a safe alternate path. A signal fault is a problem with the signaling equipment, not a physical blockage on the rails. Naming it obstruction focuses on the actual physical hazard that must be removed to restore safe service.

Blockages on the track that make a line unsafe for trains are called obstructions. This describes a physical barrier on the rails—like debris, a fallen tree, or a derailed vehicle—that stops safe train movement and requires the area to be protected and cleared before services can continue. A detour refers to an alternate route around the blockage, not the blockage itself. A clearance is permission to proceed after ensuring it’s safe, which comes after handling the obstruction or choosing a safe alternate path. A signal fault is a problem with the signaling equipment, not a physical blockage on the rails. Naming it obstruction focuses on the actual physical hazard that must be removed to restore safe service.