What action should be taken if a penalty brake application does not occur during an Alerter Test?

In the event that a penalty brake application does not occur during an Alerter Test, it is critical to refrain from using the locomotive as the lead unit. This is because the Alerter system is designed to promote safety by ensuring that responsive actions, such as a brake application, occur when the operator becomes inattentive. If the Alerter fails to trigger a penalty brake application, it indicates a potential malfunction that could compromise the safety of the operation.

Using the locomotive as a lead unit in such a situation could pose serious risks, particularly if the operator is unable to respond correctly in a critical situation. Therefore, isolating the locomotive and ensuring that maintenance is conducted before returning it to service is a necessary step to maintain operational safety and compliance with safety procedures. This approach ensures that the locomotive is fully functional and capable of responding appropriately in the event of operator inattention, which is the primary purpose of the Alerter system.