Which action is recommended to prevent sleet accumulation on electric equipment when it is left unattended?

• A. Lower and raise Pantograph frequently to prevent sleet accumulation.
• B. Leave pantographs raised to maintain readiness.
• C. Remove the equipment from the yard.
• D. Apply de-icing fluid to the pantograph.

Answer: (A)

Regularly lowering and raising the pantograph helps shed sleet and ice from the contact surface. When the equipment is left unattended, sleet can accumulate on the pantograph, reducing good contact with the overhead wire, increasing resistance, and risking arcing or power pickup problems when service resumes. By cycling the pantograph, you physically shake off or loosen that ice, keeping the contact clean and ready for reliable current collection. Leaving the pantograph raised invites ongoing ice buildup; removing the equipment from the yard isn’t a standard preventive measure; applying de-icing fluid isn’t typically used on pantographs due to electrical and contamination concerns.