Why is it important for workers to have proper clearance before occupying a railway track?

Having proper clearance before occupying a railway track is crucial primarily for the safety of workers and the prevention of accidents. When a worker is on the track without proper clearance, they expose themselves to the risk of being struck by an approaching train, which can result in severe injuries or fatalities. Ensuring proper clearance helps to create a defined space where workers can operate without the danger of nearby train movements, allowing both the workforce and train operations to be conducted safely.

While compliance with company policies, ensuring accountability during inspections, and maintaining punctuality are all important, these factors do not address the immediate and critical concern of worker safety that clearances specifically mitigate. Thus, the focus on accident prevention underscores the necessity of communication, coordination, and adherence to safety protocols regarding track occupancy.