What describes a 'visual inspection' in railcar handling?

A 'visual inspection' in railcar handling is best described as a close examination of the exterior and accessible interior parts for obvious defects. This process is crucial for ensuring safety and operational reliability, as it allows personnel to identify visible issues that could affect the functionality or safety of the railcar. During a visual inspection, inspectors look for signs of wear, damage, or other visible defects such as rust, structural damage, or problems with seals and fittings that may not require intricate mechanical knowledge to detect.

Other descriptions provided do not accurately represent the concept of a visual inspection. A detailed mechanical inspection would involve more in-depth and technical analyses, requiring specialized tools and knowledge. A review of operational manuals is unrelated to the physical inspection of the railcar itself. An inspection focused solely on leaks would be too narrow and would miss the broader scope of potential issues that can be identified through a visual check. Thus, option B effectively captures the essence of what a visual inspection entails in railcar handling.