To hand out tools to their employees. If you needed a tool you went to the tool room/crib and the attendant would give you the tool you needed any you would give the attendant a "tool check" that had a number unique to you stamped on it.
Vintage Erie Railroad PO Round Brass Tool Check No X 404
Vintage Erie Railroad PO Round Brass Tool Check No 164
Antique Brass Tool Check Tag / Token / Fob Western Maryland RR Railway
S.R.M. Brass Tool Check / Works Token No 12 (R4) – Railway/Industrial c.1930s–50
VGN Virginian Railroad Brass Tool Check
