The local switch job recently added something to the chatter on the radio. When switching, possibly before moving cars that have been sitting, over the radio they say “apply 3 step” or just “3-Step”.
I’m quite sure it has something to do with brakes, but my Goggle search hasn’t turned up anything useful. I thought I’d try you guys first. If not I’ll email a friend who works on the P&W.
So, what the heck is 3 Step ???
JR
“Three Step Protection” started a few years back to try to provide more safety protection to employees (trainman, carman) working on or fouling cars in a train. Engr when asked for "3 step protection’ must apply the brakes, put reverser in neutral position, and “kill” the field generator switch. When he has done these three things, he replies to the person requesting the protection “3 step protection applied”. This is to insure the engr doesn’t mistakenly move the train and thus injuring another employee. Only when the original employee that called for the protection informs the engr that he is “in the clear & drop the 3 step” can the engr prepare the engine for movement.
We used Three step on Conrail but I think some roads call it something else. Talking to some CSX guys, they didn’t know what I meant. Also, only members of the crew can use it. So If you had a utility conductor working the yard, he would ask “conrail 5051, utility conductor Bergmueller at the rear of your train, make me a member of your crew and apply three step”. You could only work on that train then.
Thanks guys.
My guess is they had a safety meeting and this procedure was added to their routine.
They tend to be brief on the radio. I know the crew’s voices and can tell them apart, recognizing the engineer from the conductor. I’ll now pay more attention as to who says what and when. Now that I know what to listen for 
JR