If you are trying to adjust a drawbar and cannot move it to the desired position and no one is around to assist, would it be acceptable to kick it?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if you are sure no one is nearby
• D. Not sure

Answer: (B)

Forced movement of a drawbar is not acceptable. Drawbars and their knuckle couplings are designed to be adjusted only with proper procedures and, when needed, with assistance from others or the right equipment. Kicking or striking a drawbar can cause it to slip, release, or snap, and it can send cars moving unexpectedly or trap a leg or foot in a pinch point. It’s a high-risk action in a rail yard environment where equipment is heavy, under tension, or misaligned.

If the drawbar won’t move, the safe course is to stop and secure the equipment—apply brakes, chock wheels if possible, and seek help or use approved tools and methods. Even without anyone nearby, attempting to kick it creates a clear safety hazard and goes against proper operating procedures.