REMOTE CONTROL PROBLEMS


The FRA has issued a Safety Advisory, number 2001-01, concerning remote controlled locomotives.

It is imperative that the BLE stay on top of this issue. The carriers would love nothing better than to slash jobs by the use of remote controlled locomotives. Those jobs slashed will probably be BLE engineer jobs.

We must take a pro-active position on this issue and head of any job loss before it is too late. Waiting for them to propose it, is in my estimation, too late! We must identify the problems with remote controlled technology and push for laws or regulations that insure that only Certified Locomotive Engineers operate these machines.

In this regard I am asking you to report to this board any use of remote controlled engines or railroad car moving device that you know of or even suspect is in operation.

Please fill out the below form and either print it and return to the International Division to the address at the bottom of the form, or click the 'submit' button at the bottom of the form and it will be sent to Louisiana State Legislative Board for handling.

Enter the date of the accident/incident :

-- mm/dd/yy

Enter the time of the accident/incident :

-- hh:mm:ss am/pm

Railroad:


Enter the location of the occurrence.


Enter the remote locomotives number.


Enter the type of RC transmitter if known.


How many members are on the RC crew ?


Choose one of the following weather options:

Clear
Cloudy
Dark
Raining/Snowing

Was anyone injured ?

Yes No

How many injured?


Please describe the type(s) of injuries ?


How many employees were injured?


Was the injury an Accountable Injury?

Yes No

Was the event reported?

No
Yes
Yes, but not formally

How did the event happen?


In your opinion, was the event avoidable had the person operating the equipment been on the locomotive? Please explain.


Please enter your contact information, your confidentiality will be strictly maintained:

First Name
Last Name
Division Number

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Copyright © 2001 Louisiana State Legislative Board. All rights reserved.
Revised: June 04, 2001