What is the first step in performing a locomotive air brake test?

In performing a locomotive air brake test, the first step is to release the independent and automatic brake valve handles. This step ensures that the system is in a proper starting condition, allowing for accurate testing of the air brake system. By releasing these brake valves, you prepare the locomotive's braking system for subsequent steps, such as charging the air system and testing the functionality of the brakes.

Initiating the process in this manner sets a foundation for safely and effectively conducting the test, ensuring all components can operate as they should. Other steps, like applying the automatic brake or testing the emergency brake functionality, assume that the system is already in a neutral state, which starts with the release of the valves. Conducting a visual inspection of brake components is also an important step, but it typically occurs after ensuring that the brakes are released, as part of a thorough pre-test safety check.