When are loads allowed to be passed or suspended over an active trackway?

The correct response is that loads are allowed to be passed or suspended over an active trackway only during a General Order (GO). A General Order is a temporary directive that allows for certain disruptions to normal operations, ensuring safety protocols are adhered to while workers are present and the track is clear. It is specifically designed to allow for work to be carried out in a controlled manner, minimizing risk to both workers and rail operations.

Passing or suspending loads over an active trackway without a General Order could lead to serious safety hazards, as the tracks may still have train movements. The other options suggest more lenient conditions that would compromise safety regulations. For instance, if loads were allowed at any time or only during specified work hours without the specific structure and oversight that a General Order provides, it could lead to increased risks of accidents. Similarly, while prior approval might seem plausible, it lacks the broader scope and safety measures encompassed in a General Order that is designed to prioritize worker safety and communication with train operations.