When are whistle boards required?

Whistle boards are an important safety feature used in roadway worker protection to ensure that train operators are made aware of workers on or near the tracks. The requirement for whistle boards comes into play when there are specific conditions that necessitate extra caution.

The correct choice indicates that whistle boards are required when there are 5 or more employees working for more than 1 hour. This requirement is aligned with the idea that larger crews working for extended periods present a greater potential hazard, making it essential to have measures in place that enhance visibility and notification to train operators. Therefore, having whistle boards in this context helps to reduce the risk of accidents by alerting oncoming train crews about the presence of workers, allowing them to take necessary precautions.

In environments where fewer employees are working or when work duration is shorter, the risk may be perceived as lower, thereby lessening the necessity for such safety measures. Overall, ensuring communication and safety in higher risk scenarios is crucial for effective roadway worker protection.