{{Anderson’s death raises concerns about the safety of remote-controlled trains}

Remote-Controlled Trains: A Safety Hazard?

WALBRIDGE, OHIO: Fred Anderson, a 56-year-old carman with 19 years of experience at CSX, tragically lost his life on Sunday, September 17. Anderson was killed in a CSX railyard in Ohio when he was crushed between two railcars by a remote-controlled train. This incident has sparked concerns among unions regarding the safety of remote-controlled locomotives, which are reportedly used by every major railroad in the country.

Anderson’s unfortunate death was not an isolated incident. He is the third carman to be killed in an incident involving a remote-controlled train since June. Transportation Communications Union & Brotherhood of Railway Carmen National President, Artie Maratea, stated in a news release that their understanding is that this fatality involved a remote-control locomotive. If confirmed, it would mark the third carman fatality related to remote-control locomotives.

The Rising Death Toll

Since June, three carmen have lost their lives due to incidents involving remote-controlled locomotives. These accidents have raised serious concerns about the safety protocols surrounding the use of this technology in rail yards. The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the recent incident that claimed Anderson’s life, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning in Walbridge, Ohio.

Following this tragic event, the National Transportation Safety Board has called for a comprehensive review of the use and practices surrounding remote-controlled locomotives. Artie Maratea emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that a full-scale review is long overdue. He further stressed the need for railroads, including CSX, to evaluate their implementation of remote-control locomotives. Maratea believes that these technological advancements should prioritize worker safety rather than solely serving the interests of Wall Street.

Safety Measures Moving Forward

With the increasing number of fatalities related to remote-controlled trains, it has become imperative to implement measures to prevent further accidents. The investigation of the recent incident in Ohio has prompted the National Transportation Safety Board to call for a thorough assessment of the usage and practices surrounding this technology.

Remote-controlled locomotives were approved by the Federal Railroad Administration as early as 2005. However, there is a lack of clear guidance on their operation, particularly regarding safety protocols. These locomotives are primarily used in railyards for train assembly, allowing railroad workers to control them either from the ground or inside the train itself. The absence of standardized safety guidelines raises concerns about the potential risks involved.

CSX CEO Joe Hinrichs expressed his condolences to Anderson’s family and emphasized the significance of prioritizing safety in all operations. He called upon every member of the CSX community to strengthen efforts in creating a safe work environment. Fred Anderson’s untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the importance of diligently observing safety protocols.

The impact of this tragic incident extends beyond Anderson’s immediate family. He is survived by his wife and adult son. CSX employees have been urged to honor Anderson’s memory by actively contributing to the ongoing commitment to creating a safe and supportive workplace.

Conclusion

The recent death of Fred Anderson has ignited concerns regarding the safety of remote-controlled trains. With three carman fatalities in recent months, it is imperative for railroads to reevaluate their use of remote-control locomotives and prioritize the well-being of their employees. The National Transportation Safety Board’s investigation and call for a thorough review of this technology’s usage and practices highlight the critical need for enhanced safety measures.

As the investigation unfolds and railroads grapple with balancing efficiency and safety, it is crucial for the industry to come together and find innovative solutions that minimize risks and protect the lives of their workforce. By fostering a culture of safety and ensuring comprehensive safety protocols, railroads can prevent further tragic incidents and create a work environment that prioritizes the well-being of their employees.