Who is responsible for providing flag protection when a train is disabled?

The responsibility of providing flag protection when a train is disabled typically falls to the crew member of the disabled train. This is crucial for ensuring safety, as a disabled train may create a hazardous situation on the track, potentially endangering both the crew and any oncoming trains. The crew member is trained to assess the situation and take necessary actions to prevent any accidents by using flags or lights to signal to following trains about the obstruction on the tracks.

While other personnel, such as a dispatcher or crew from an oncoming train, could be involved in addressing the situation, it is the crew member on the disabled train who is in the immediate vicinity and is best positioned to implement safety measures. Their quick response ensures adequate warning of the disabled train to others who may be approaching the area, thus prioritizing safety on the railway.