As a railway worker, you deal with an environment full of potential hazards each day you show up for work. Heavy machinery, high voltages and massive locomotives create a unique set of dangers. The risks are always there but understanding them can help you take...
How to cope with hearing loss as a railroad worker
High levels of noise can wreak havoc on your hearing. Across all industries, loud noise is a problem, but railroad workers are among the working population highly susceptible to hearing loss. Hearing loss affects not only your job performance but also your quality of...
TIH chemical exposure puts railroad workers at risk
Toxic inhalation hazard (TIH) chemicals are raw substances often transported through railroads for various industries, including mining, manufacturing, agriculture and pharmaceuticals. These chemicals could have toxic fumes, such as chlorine gas and anhydrous ammonia....
It can be challenging to seek compensation for preventable railroad injuries
In recent years, new business models have made railroad companies even more profit-driven. According to employees and their advocates, railroads are trying to support their bottom-line partly by cutting back on staffing, training, inspections and equipment maintenance...
Asbestos exposure continues to threaten railroad workers
Asbestos is a natural silicate mineral used in various commercial and industrial products because of its incredible resistance to both heat and corrosion. The government has since restricted its usage after the discovery of its harmful effects on the human body....
Are railroad whistleblowers shielded from retaliation?
Railroad workers actively safeguard safety standards. They handle hazardous materials to prevent environmental harm. They also maintain equipment for emissions reduction and energy efficiency. Yet, what if they uncover safety violations or unlawful acts with...
Does investing in technology reduce railroad worker injuries?
Railroad workers face numerous safety hazards on the job. Their daily tasks often expose them to various risks, including equipment malfunction, falls and collisions. The good news is that using new technology has significantly improved workers' safety conditions....
The links between cancer and railroad work
Many railroad workers with a variety of different jobs are exposed regularly to dangerous and toxic substances that increase their risk of developing cancer. This includes brakemen, conductors, pipefitters, trackmen, yardmasters and more. Among the dangerous...
5 dangerous substances railroad workers may encounter at work
As a railroad worker, you need protective equipment to help prevent direct exposure to harmful substances, including toxic chemicals. Without appropriate protective measures, handling these substances may increase your risk of contracting severe and long-lasting...
3 common railroad accidents that endanger workers
Certain professions face more danger because of multiple occupational hazards, including railroad workers. The nature of their jobs requires exposure to dangerous situations that put their lives at risk. No matter how many safety measures they implement, one mistake...