Railroad Safety Tips

Railroad Safety Tips

When you're walking...

Always stop, look, and listen for trains before crossing the tracks - cross only at crosswalks and be sure to look both ways.

Don't stand on the tracks or step in front of a train - the operator may not see you or be able to stop in time.

* At 55 mph it takes 5280 ft. (one mile) to stop a train.

Do not cross between uncoupled cars.

Never step on the rails, as they may be slippery.

When you're in a vehicle...

Never race a train to a crossing - you will never have a second chance if you lose.

Be careful turning across train tracks - it's where more accidents happen.

Always obey all traffic signs and signals; never assume you have the right-of-way - and look both ways before crossing.

Expect a train on any track at any time - if a train goes by, watch out for a second one - and be sure to look in both directions.

Never stop your car on train tracks - if you stall or get stuck, get everyone out of the vehicle and off the tracks.

Don't anticipate lights or creep out at rail intersections - and never, ever drive around the crossing gates.

Remember: Trains can't stop as quickly as you can.

Remember: Many vehicles are required to stop at all rail crossings.

If you're on a motorcycle or bike, be sure to cross tracks at a 90 degree angle - and follow all the above safety rules as well.

When you're on the job...
72 hrs. prior to performing work within 6 ft of any railroad track, permission must be obtained from the owner client railroad supervisor or designated person to take the track out of service.
Always use the approved safety equipment. (Hard hats, high visibility clothing, metatarsal boots, and safety glasses with permanently attached side shields must be worn in designated areas associated with rails.)

Never attempt to crawl under rail equipment or climb over moving rail equipment or attempt to cross in front of moving equipment.
Never position any part of the body in a potential pinch point. Rail equipment can move in either direction at any time with no warning.

If you have children...
Talk to them about railroad safety - teach them the importance of crossing the tracks safely - "Stop, look and listen" is an important message for them to understand.
Take a field trip, go exploring, schedule a time to show your children rail tracks and the areas where it is safe to be and those where it is not safe.

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