When must a train dim the headlights?

Dimming the headlights while standing or passing through yards is a safety measure aimed at reducing glare for other yard workers and train crews in close proximity. In yard environments, bright headlights can hinder visibility for personnel who may be working on or near the tracks, including those performing inspections, switching cars, or coordinating movements.

This practice helps maintain a safer work environment and ensures that those involved in yard operations can see their surroundings more clearly without the distraction of bright lights. It's important to recognize that the specific circumstances in these settings require a balance between operational visibility and the safety of personnel.

Other scenarios, such as passing over bridges, approaching grade crossings, or ascending steep grades, do have specific operational rules regarding headlight use, but dimming is particularly emphasized in yards to prioritize the safety of ground-level workers.