• 3 STEP PROTECTION Any crewmember intending to foul track or equipment must notify the locomotive engineer before such action can take place. The locomotive engineer must them apply locomotive or train brakes, have the reverser centered, turn generator field off, and then confirm this action with the individual on the ground. Additionally, any crewmember that intends to adjust knuckles/drawbars, or apply or remove EOT device, must insure 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 insure that they are completely stopped and, if necessary, a sufficient number of hand brakes must be applied to insure that the cut of cars will not move.

• 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 communication with all crewmembers involved.
• ADJACENT TRACK. Protection must be afforded when there is the possibility of movement on adjacent track(s). Each crew will arrange positive protection for (an) adjacent track(s) through positive communication with yardmaster and/or other crewmembers.

 

• SAFETY BRIEFING At the beginning of each tour of duty, all crewmembers will meet and discuss all 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 their performance of service.

• SPECIFY DISTANCE 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 crewmembers must communicate by hand signals or radio signals. A combination of hand and radio signals is prohibited. All crewmembers must confirm when the mode of communication changes.

• MENTORING Crewmembers 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 service safely and efficiently. Programs such as peer review, mentoring, and supervisory observation must be utilized to insure employees are able to perform service in a safe manner.

SOFA UPDATE OCTOBER 2006

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES