What is required for a dispatcher to move a non-shunting train?

For a dispatcher to safely move a non-shunting train, it is essential that blocks protect against any following movements. This requirement is in place to ensure the safety of both the train being moved and any other trains that may be operating on adjacent tracks. When a block is established, it effectively creates a safe area where the non-shunting train can operate without the risk of being followed too closely by another train, thereby minimizing the potential for collisions and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

The need for blocks to protect against following movements is a fundamental safety measure in railway operations. It helps maintain safe distances between trains, particularly when one is moving in a manner that could interfere with the movements of another. This practice is critical for ensuring that all trains on the network can operate safely and efficiently.

In contrast, other options emphasize aspects that are not as pivotal to the immediate safety of the non-shunting train's movement, such as notifying all train crews or maintaining signals in a particular position, which, while important for overall operations, do not directly address the specific requirement for protecting a non-shunting train's movement.