How should hand brakes be managed if found to be faulty?

Managing faulty hand brakes is a critical safety concern in railroad operations. The correct approach is to attach a bad order tag. This action serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it clearly communicates to other crew members and maintenance personnel that the hand brakes are not functioning properly and should not be relied upon. This helps avoid potential accidents or mishaps that could arise from using equipment that is not in an operable condition.

Furthermore, tagging the equipment indicates that it requires inspection, repair, or replacement before it can be safely used again. It also establishes a clear record of issues, which is essential for maintaining operational safety and compliance with railroad regulations. By labeling faulty equipment appropriately, the railroad ensures that all personnel are aware of the issue and can take the necessary steps to address it, thereby enhancing overall safety in switching operations.

Leaving the brakes unmarked or simply notifying the next crew does not provide the same level of assurance or information about the fault, and attempting to repair on-site might not be feasible or safe without proper tools or expertise, potentially leading to further complications.