Until a train has assurance of protection on an intervening track, where must they stop?

The correct response indicates that a train must stop at the last holding point before the station until it has assurance of protection on an intervening track. This is crucial for ensuring safety and proper control of train movements. The last holding point acts as a safeguard, preventing potential conflicts and allowing dispatchers to manage the flow of trains effectively.

Stopping at this designated point ensures that the train does not proceed onto tracks that may be unsafe or where it cannot be adequately protected. It allows for a clear protocol that prompts the train crew to wait for explicit instructions or assurance, thereby maintaining orderly operations within the rail network.

In the context of rail operations, this approach is necessary to mitigate risks associated with train movements, particularly in busy or complex environments where multiple trains may be operating simultaneously. Being at the last holding point before the station provides a buffer that enhances overall safety and efficiency.