How must en route car brake failure be documented?

Breake failure en route must be documented accurately to ensure safety and clarity in operations. The correct method is to tag the defective car with a "Bad Order" tag, which serves multiple purposes. This tag clearly indicates to any crew or personnel that the car is not fit for service due to brake issues, thereby preventing the potential risk of operating a train with malfunctioning equipment. Additionally, the "Bad Order" tag helps in tracking and managing the necessary repairs once the equipment reaches a maintenance facility or repair shop.

The process of tagging and using a "Bad Order" tag is standardized in the industry to maintain a uniform approach to equipment failures. It ensures that any subsequent crews or operators are immediately informed of the issue without needing to rely on memory or verbal communication, which can lead to misunderstanding or oversight. This documentation method enhances safety compliance and operational efficiency by creating a clear record of issues that need to be addressed.