Category: Safety Alert
Cheaper to Burn Bridges than Inspect Them: Documentary Reveals Railroad Negligence
A new hard-hitting video from the Howard Center for Investigative Journalism reveals how the railroads’ widespread neglect of their bridges put our communities at risk and why that problem is about to get much worse if we don’t do something to stop it. Read on to see what we can do to spread the word.
CSX Trainee Death Exposes Glaring Safety Gaps
The NTSB has highlighted dangerous gaps in the railroad’s approach to safety and training. The agency’s findings align closely with long-standing concerns raised by SMART-TD. Read on to see how our union is accelerating steps to take matters into our own hands.
Razor blade found on brake wheel
The FRA recently sent notice of a razor blade intentionally stuck to the handbrake wheel of a tank car. Slow down, take a breath, and check your surroundings, especially when it comes to brake wheels, cut levers, ladder rungs, or anything else you come into personal contact with. Stay safe and report any suspicious activity to your local’s Safety and Legislative Representative.
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.
Help Promote Rail Crossing Safety on ENS Sign Awareness Day
Tomorrow (June 24) marks the first-ever Emergency Notification System (ENS) Sign Awareness Day, which brings attention to the blue and white signs that are posted at railroad crossings. Read on to learn how you can help raise awareness and prevent avoidable accidents from happening.
Victory in Colorado: SMART-TD Secures Permanent Funding for the Office of Railroad Safety
Colorado’s SMART-TD members have successfully secured permanent funding for the Colorado Office of Railroad Safety through the passage of State Bill SB25-162, marking a major victory after over two years of union-led organizing and advocacy. Read on to see how this bill spearheaded by State Legislative Director Carl Smith, ensures that rail carriers (not workers) will fund the office, which will collect critical safety data to drive reforms both in Colorado and nationwide.
Tesla sparks safety showdown with nation’s rail workers
Tesla calls itself a car company, but they’re really in the battery business. They have requested a permit to ship their lithium-ion batteries by rail, a request that neglects important safety and training measures. Read on to learn about SMART-TD's response to this potentially explosive situation.
Operation Lifesaver campaigns to promote rail safety in 11 states
Operation Lifesaver (OLI) has announced $219,155 in grants to fund rail safety awareness campaigns in 11 states. OLI understands the multifaceted nature of rail safety — with every tragedy averted a railroader is spared from trauma and a family is spared from pain. Read on to learn about their campaigns and to help spread awareness of See Tracks? Think Train!® Week (September 15–21, 2025).