What should a conductor do if they observe track defects?

When a conductor observes track defects, reporting them to dispatch and following safety protocols is essential to ensure the safety of train operations and the protection of passengers. This course of action allows for immediate attention to the hazard, enabling the appropriate personnel to assess the situation and carry out repairs as necessary.

By informing dispatch, the conductor ensures that the defect is logged and can be tracked, allowing other trains to be warned and preventing potential accidents. Following safety protocols further emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe working environment, as these protocols are designed to protect both the crew and the passengers.

In contrast, ignoring the defects could lead to dangerous situations, and attempting to fix them personally may not only be unsafe but also improper, as it can involve specialized knowledge and tools that a conductor may not have. Documenting defects for later review, while important, does not address the immediate risk posed by the defect on current train operations, which is why prompt reporting is crucial.