What is the minimum distance portable derails should be placed from standing equipment?

The minimum distance that portable derails should be placed from standing equipment is 150 feet. This distance is critical for safety, as it ensures that trains are sufficiently warned to stop before reaching the standing equipment, thereby preventing potential collisions or derailments. The 150-foot distance allows for appropriate stopping distances, taking into consideration the speed of approaching trains and their ability to come to a halt safely.

Choosing this distance also reflects standard practices in rail safety protocols, which prioritize the protection of both personnel working in the vicinity of rail operations and the integrity of equipment. Setting portable derails too close could compromise safety, as train operators may not have adequate time to react if they encounter unexpected obstacles.