Safety

UTU CSX Safety Model 2013

UTU Safety Homepage

Safety Hot Line 1-304-522-5198

Public Safety Coordination Center 1-800-232-0144

Switching Operations Fatality Analysis (SOFA)

The 5 Lifesavers

1. Any crew member intending to foul track or equipment must notify the locomotive engineer before such action can take place. The locomotive engineer must then apply locomotive or train brakes, have the reverser centered, and then confirm this action with the individual on the ground. Additionally, any crew member that intends to adjust knuckles/drawbars, or apply or remove EOT device, must ensure that the cut of cars to be coupled into is separated by no less than 50 feet. Also, the person on the ground must physically inspect the cut of cars not attached to the locomotive to ensure that they are completely stopped and, if necessary, a sufficient number of hand brakes must be applied to ensure the cut of cars will not move.

2. When two or more train crews are simultaneously performing work in the same yard or industry tracks, extra precautions must be taken: • Same track—two or more crews are prohibited from switching into the same track at the same time, without establishing direct communications with all crew members involved. • Adjacent Track—protection must be afforded when there is a possibility of movement on adjacent track (s). Each crew will arrange positive protection for an adjacent track(s) through positive communication with the yardmaster and/or other crew members.

3. At the beginning of each tour-of-duty, all crew members will meet and discuss safety matters and work to be accomplished. Additional briefings will be held any time work changes are made and when necessary to protect their safety during the performance of service.

4. When using radio communication, locomotive engineers must not begin any shove move without a specified distance from the person controlling the move. Strict compliance with “distance to go” communication must be maintained. When controlling train or engine movements, all crew members must communicate by hand signals or radio signals. A combination of hand and radio signals is prohibited. All crew members must confirm when the mode of communication changes.

5. Crew members with less than one year of service must have special attention paid to safety awareness, service qualifications, on-the-job training, physical plant familiarity, and overall ability to perform safely and efficiently. Programs such as peer review, mentoring, and supervisory observation must be utilized to insure employee are able to perform service in a safe manner.

 

Life-Critical Rules

1. Improper Air Brake Test

2. Failure to control your train in accordance with a stop signal.

3. Overspeed.

4. On Main Track without Authority.

5. Tampering with a safety appliance.

6. Rule G Violations.

 

Family Emergency Contact Phone Number — You may need an employee ID number

1-800-232-0144

 

Report Suspicious Activity

1-800-232-0144

 

Employee Assistance Program Hotline

1-800-657-3366