NPR 711 Using Lookouts

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Description

This document describes the procedure for using Lookouts

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Lookouts give warning about rail traffic movements to workers in the Danger Zone.

Lookouts give warning about, the approach of rail traffic and must not:

work continuously at the same location for more than 60 minutes, or
unless specified in the Network Local Appendices, use warning lights to warn of approaching rail traffic, or
manage the passage of rail traffic, or
do any other work.

Lookouts need:

a high-visibility sleeve worn on the arm to give the ALL CLEAR handsignal
two independent forms of effective communication with workers
if necessary, an audible warning device.

Identify all possible points of entry into the worksite.
For each route leading to the worksite, calculate the Minimum Warning Time (MWT) and Minimum Sighting Distance (MSD) in accordance with NPR 751 Calculating Minimum Warning Time.
Determine the number of Lookouts needed to keep watch for rail traffic and give warning.
Place each Lookout in a safe place.

The maximum number of Lookouts permitted in any running‑direction is two.

The additional Lookout must stay within sight and hearing of the Lookout closer to the worksite.

Make sure that all workers and their equipment are in a safe place before repositioning the Lookout.
Reposition the Lookout to locations where minimum warning times and communication with the workers are maintained.
Make sure the Lookout is in position and the line is clear before allowing workers to move.

Agree with the Protection Officer on how workers will be warned about the approach of rail traffic.

Lookouts must not use radios or telephones to warn workers.

Stand in a safe place where you can see approaching rail traffic and be within sight and hearing of the workers. If you cannot do both of these safely, tell the Protection Officer.
Keep a continuous lookout for the approach of rail traffic.
When rail traffic approaches, warn the workers immediately.
Only if workers and their equipment are in a safe place, face the approaching train or track vehicle and give the ALL CLEAR handsignal to the Driver or Track Vehicle Operator.
Wait for the Driver or Track Vehicle Operator to acknowledge the ALL CLEAR handsignal.
Make sure that the line is clear before telling the Protection Officer that it is safe for work to resume.
Tell the Protection Officer if you need to move from your designated position. Do not move from your position until:
1. all workers and their equipment are in a safe place, or
2. a new Lookout is in position.
Tell the Protection Officer if conditions such as visibility change.