What must a Dispatcher ensure before issuing a Form D line 7 or a Bulletin Order?

The requirement for a Dispatcher to ensure that switch points at interlockings are spiked or wedged before issuing a Form D line 7 or a Bulletin Order is crucial for maintaining safety on the railway. This precaution is necessary because safe train operations heavily rely on the proper alignment and securement of track switches. If switches are not properly set and secured, there is a risk of trains being routed incorrectly, which could lead to accidents or derailments.

While verifying that all systems are functioning correctly, ensuring good weather conditions, and confirming that all trains are at a safe distance are important components of overall rail operations management, they do not specifically address the immediate safety concerns associated with issuing orders that directly affect train routing. Therefore, the integrity of the track switches takes precedence, as it directly impacts the safety of train movements.