Trains are one of the safest forms of travel, yet risk is still present for rail workers. The long shifts, complex machinery, and hazardous cargo involved make for a high-stress and high-stakes working environment. Strict adherence to best practices for operating freight trains, as well as for storing and moving cargo improve safety for employees.

Onboard Slips, Trips, and Falls

Safely working on a moving vehicle is demanding even in the best conditions, and different train cars present all sorts of difficult and obstructive conditions. Maintenance and cleaning practices for rail cars are exhaustive, and often adapted to the specific type of train car and its variety of cargo. Some guidelines, though, are universal:

• Regularly inspect doors, tracks, gates, locks, and any other vital parts of the car for damage or wear.
• Clean or remove all debris, compacted residue, runoff, or spillage.
• Report any damage or defects to the railroad immediately.

Moving Hazards and Environmental Dangers

A different set of fall hazards presents itself when working outdoors near railroad tracks and rail yards. Environmental conditions create additional risks, when train tracks, elevated platforms, and stairs become slippery in inclement weather. Rail yards and the ground near train tracks can be uneven or littered with debris, while storms or high winds can push larger objects like tree branches onto train tracks. Perhaps most importantly, working outdoors puts you near moving trains, which can present impact hazards. Make sure to keep in mind specific best practices and regulations for outdoor work.

• Learn and strictly adhere to signal and monitoring protocols while working where trains may move.
• Wear appropriate, sturdy footwear with good traction that’s suitable for your environmental conditions.
• Clean or remove all debris, compacted residue, runoff, or spillage.
• Adhere to all fall protection regulations and use fall protection systems when working on bridges. Railroad bridge workers have detailed regulations regarding training and safety precautions that change based on the nature of the work being done.

Exposure to Hazardous Materials

Railroads move massive amounts of hazardous materials and are indicated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) as the safest form of hazmat transportation. They have a common carrier obligation to move necessary but toxic materials like fertilizer, ethanol, crude oil, refined petroleum, and chlorine. Proper inspections and signage can help keep employees safe in the presence of hazardous substances.

• All hazmat shipments must be inspected before accepting them, when receiving them, when loading them on a train, and at any other required inspection points.
• Inspectors should check for leakage; required placards and markings; secure fastening of closures, coverings, and loads; and any signs of tampering, damage, or signs that security has been compromised.
• Any rail car, container, or transport vehicle containing hazardous materials should be clearly marked with placards that communicate the hazard.