Category: Operator safety
Fewer Eyes Mean More Derailments
We're sounding the alarm before tragedy strikes: SMART-TD calls on the FRA to reject a waiver request to cut track inspections by 75% in favor of automated solutions, which miss many common hazards. Read on to learn about the railroad industry’s latest misguided attempt to replace experience with technology.
Bad Actors to be Restrained Thanks to New SMART-TD-backed Transit Bill
California joins a growing list of states where SMART-TD members are fighting for stronger protections for transit operators, employees, and passengers. Read on to learn what changes could be coming to current law that would ensure our members’ enhanced safety.
Fighting for Stronger Heat Protections for Rail Workers
As temperatures soar, railroaders are challenged to stay safe on the job. OSHA is considering a new rule intended to prevent heat-related injuries and illnesses. SMART-TD presented the reality of what it means to walk a long train or idle for hours with a broken AC. Read on to hear what was said and where we go from here.
PHOTO GALLERY: SEPTA Drivers Provide Bulletproof Barrier Feedback
SEPTA bus drivers in Philadelphia provided real-world feedback on the bulletproof barriers that have been installed on eight of the fleet’s vehicles. Once adjustments are made, these barriers will be gradually installed on all SEPTA buses. Read on for details, including a photo gallery of today’s testing.
Snipers test bulletproof barriers for SEPTA: SMART-TD was there
A new type of glare-resistant, bulletproof barrier has been installed in eight SEPTA buses, and SMART-TD got a live, in-person look at the most recent round of testing. Read on to see the results and learn what this means for transit workers across the country.
Bus operator summons SWAT team in LA bus hijacking
SMART-TD Transit Union member safe after he alerted police to fatal shooting, hijacking aboard LACMTA bus.
De-escalation training helps conductors avert potential Amtrak disaster
Nathan Hatton learned de-escalation techniques at SMART-TD's 2024 National Training Seminar in July. A month later, he was confronted with a situation which, improperly handled, could have been catastrophic.
Crews run blind after CN’s Comply365 app crashes
The Canadian National Railroad (CN) sent their crews rolling through communities without access to essential safety documents after a failed software upgrade. SMART-TD Alternate SLD Eric Stanger told SMART News that “The idea that there is not an adequate contingency plan in place for this is mind-blowing.” If you work for CN, fill out the safety condition report for every incident. The form is available on the SMART App and SMART-TD website.