May 25th, 2008 at 7:44 am
Working on or around railroad tracks can be a hazardous job if you’re not alert and paying attention to your surroundings.
Getting hit by a train is almost certain to end your life. Working in railyards or out repairing track is hard work, it can be exhausting, and you can lose focus; these are the times that accidents happen. Hazards are a part of any work-site, and knowledge of those hazards and how to handle them safely or eliminate them is essential. Proper training and following your training will allow you to safely handle most hazards. Report any hazard to your supervisor and make sure your co-workers are aware of them, do not assume they already know. Most accidents occur as the result of unsafe acts which could have been prevented by using common sense. If you witness any unsafe acts by your co-workers, make sure they know that it is unsafe and know the proper, safe way to do the task.
Following are guidelines for working safely around tracks:
When you are required to work around live tracks, stay alert.
Expect movement from on-track equipment at any time.
Before approaching a track, look in both directions. Make sure its safe to get on or cross the track.
Never cross a track in front of oncoming traffic unless you are absolutely certain there is sufficient time and space to do so safely.
When on-track equipment is approaching, stay at least 30 feet from the track while the equipment is passing.
Watch for protruding structures on passing equipment as well as other hazards.
When rail traffic is approaching move away from the track, and warn your co-workers as well.
Never sit, walk, step, stand, or lay on rails; including other track components such as switch points, frogs, guard rails, derails, and wheel stops.
Do not lean on, climb on, or go under any on-track equipment unless your job requires it. Then do so only after all required safety procedures, such as lockout / tagout procedures have been put in place.
Do not walk between two pieces of on-track equipment unless they are separated by at least 50 feet.
Keep at least 25 feet from the end of standing trains, cars, or locomotives. This will allow you time to react safely to any movement of the equipment.
Avoid being trapped between on-track equipment passing on adjacent tracks.
It is the responsibility of the employee to be aware of the ever present hazards associated with working around tracks. Use good judgment and common sense in dealing with these hazards. Keeping alert at all times on the job will protect you and your co-workers from the various hazards of working on the rails.
Be safe out there.
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