What is the potential consequence of failing to ensure that trains are not approaching before occupying a track?

When workers fail to ensure that trains are not approaching before occupying a track, the most significant potential consequence is accidents leading to injuries or fatalities. The primary goal of the Roadway Worker Protection (RWP) program is to safeguard the lives of workers on or near railroad tracks. When proper protocols are not followed, the risk of being struck by an oncoming train increases dramatically. This failure can result in serious accidents that not only endanger the lives of workers but can also have devastating effects on railroad operations and public safety.

While project delays, enhancements in safety measures, and legal actions may occur as a result of this failure, they are secondary consequences. The immediate and most severe outcome is the physical harm that can occur, which underscores the importance of always monitoring train movements before taking action on the tracks. The emphasis on safety in the RWP program is designed to prevent such tragedies from occurring.