Tragedy Strikes as Railroad Worker Crushed by Remote-Controlled Train
In a tragic incident over the weekend, a railroad worker lost their life in Ohio when caught between two railcars controlled remotely by a train. This incident has raised serious concerns among labor unions regarding the use of such technology.
Calls for a Thorough Review
The Transportation Communications Union and the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen issued a joint statement on Sunday, emphasizing the urgent need for an extensive examination of remote-controlled locomotives. For years, major railroads have deployed these locomotives, both within and beyond railyards across the nation.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board is actively investigating this fatal incident, which occurred in Walbridge, Ohio, shortly before 4 a.m. on Sunday. Tragically, this marks the third fatality involving a remote-controlled locomotive, according to the unions.
Demanding Accountability
Transportation Communications Union National President Artie Maratea expressed his concerns in the statement, demanding a comprehensive review of the use and safety practices related to remote-controlled locomotives. He stressed that it is high time for CSX and all railroads to assess the true impact of these technological advancements on worker safety and not just as a means to replace employees and bolster profits.
CSX Response
CSX officials, based in Jacksonville, Florida, have not yet provided answers to inquiries regarding the incident. The rail company remains silent in the face of this tragedy.
Remote-Controlled Locomotives Since 2005
Remote-controlled locomotives have been authorized by the Federal Railroad Administration since 2005, primarily used within railyards to facilitate train assembly. While regulatory guidelines issued back then call for safety precautions, such as limiting train speeds to 15 mph, specific regulations governing their usage remain somewhat lacking.
How They Operate
Typically, a railroad worker on the ground operates a train using a remote control, though at times, a worker may ride aboard the train during its operation.
Safety Concerns Nationwide
This incident adds to the growing nationwide concerns about railroad safety. This year, an incident involving a Norfolk Southern train derailment and fire in eastern Ohio led to evacuations, ongoing health concerns, a massive cleanup effort, and calls for reform.
CSX – A Major Player
CSX, one of the nation’s largest railroads, operates in 23 Eastern states and two Canadian provinces. As the investigation continues, the industry as a whole faces pressing questions about the safety of remote-controlled locomotives and the well-being of those who operate them.