Railroad brake, signal, and switch operators frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Repeat the same movements.
• Sit for long periods of time.

It is important for railroad brake, signal, and switch operators to be able to:

• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
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• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for railroad brake, signal, and switch operators to be able to:

• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
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• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Use muscles to jump, sprint, or throw objects.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• See objects in very low light.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.
• Determine from which direction a sound came.