What is the importance of testing brake pressures?

Testing brake pressures is crucial for ensuring optimal braking capacity in a train's air brake system. Maintaining the correct brake pressure is essential for the safe and effective operation of the braking system. When brake pressures are properly calibrated, it allows the brakes to function as designed, providing the necessary stopping power in various situations.

The ability to quickly and reliably stop is vital for the safety of the crew, cargo, and any other individuals near or on the railway. If the brake pressures are found to be too low or too high, it can lead to delayed responses, increased stopping distances, and potential failures in the brake system overall. This can ultimately compromise safety standards, increasing the risk of accidents and incidents.

Thus, regularly testing brake pressures is a critical part of maintenance and operational protocols in railway operations to uphold safety and efficiency standards.