What is a key safety requirement for conductors when operating trains?

The key safety requirement for conductors when operating trains is that they must ensure that all doors are secured before departure. This procedure is critical in maintaining passenger safety and preventing accidents. If the doors are not properly secured, it could lead to dangerous situations, including the risk of passengers falling from the train while it is in motion.

Conductors are responsible for verifying that all safety measures are in place before the train departs from a station, and securing the doors is a vital part of that responsibility. This ensures not only the safety of passengers on board but also contributes to the overall safe operation of the train service.

While staying awake, familiarizing with maintenance history, and announcing stops are important duties, they do not take precedence over the immediate safety concern of ensuring that all doors are properly shut and locked before the train begins its journey.