Chase Gunnoe

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — CSX Transportation workers are now permitted to step on and step off moving equipment while switching freight cars on the railroad’s system. In an employee document obtained by Trains News Wire, railroaders can make the moves on locomotives and other track equipment at a walking pace not to exceed 4 mph.



The bulletin, which took effect at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, March 14, applies to trained employees who have been qualified by a supervisor regarding the rule change and have demonstrated proficiency in the task, the bulletin reads.



The new rule change includes a checklist of items that must be performed before an employee can mount or dismount moving equipment, including scanning the area for obstructing objects, maintaining three points of contact, staying clear of adjacent tracks, and first applying a boot to the bottom step or ladder rung to verify proper footing before continuing with the mount or dismount.



According to the bulletin, the new rules supersede existing CSX "safe way" rules and will be a part of broader revisions that will be implemented in the new CSX employee operating manual that will take effect on April 1, 2017.



Sources familiar with the rule tell News Wire this is one of the first rulebook modifications implemented under E. Hunter Harrison’s leadership at CSX.



Trains News Wire has reached out to CSX for additional comment.

