Ohio’s comprehensive rail safety bill HB 186 is drawing significant attention. On October 10th, during a meeting of the House Public Safety and Transportation Committee, strong support was voiced for the bill, focusing on the issue of bob cad load and operational safety. Representatives from the SMART Transportation Division, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), and others spent over two hours presenting to the committee on why lawmakers should pass the bill.
The Importance of Safety in Railway Operations
Mr. Stu Gardner, Ohio State Legislative Director, emphasized the critical importance of safety for railway workers and the community. He argued that ensuring safety in railway operations, especially concerning bob cad load, must be a top priority. HB 186 addresses key issues such as the requirement for two-person train crews on freight trains, adequate lighting, safe walkways in rail yards, and laws against blocked crossings.
Terry Forson, experienced with a runaway freight train, testifies on railway safety.
Image: Terry Forson, who experienced a runaway freight train, shares his perspective on railway safety.
The Role of Rail Workers in Ensuring Safety
Nine participants in the hearing discussed the safety implications of the bill, particularly the need for two-person crews in freight train cabins, especially as the rail industry adopts strategies of lengthening trains and delaying investments to increase profits. Having two people on board, especially with heavy bob cad load, helps handle emergency situations more effectively.
Technology and Railway Safety Practices
HB 186, co-sponsored by Ohio State Representative Mike Sheehy, a retired rail worker and member of the SMART TD alumni association, and Brent Hillyer, addresses the following safety issues:
- Two-person freight train crews
- Proper walkways in rail yards
- Rail yard lighting safety
- Blocked crossings
While technology like Positive Train Control (PTC) has the potential to support rail safety, reality shows it is not yet operating as effectively as expected. Ryan Fitzpatrick, a member of Local 1397 and a volunteer with Operation Lifesaver, stated that he witnessed PTC malfunctions, not activating until thousands of feet after a signal was transmitted. This highlights the importance of human presence in ensuring safety, especially with heavy bob cad load.
Conclusion: HB 186 and the Future of Railway Safety
HB 186 will continue to be discussed, and testimony will be heard from opponents before the committee presents it to the full Ohio House for consideration. Passing this bill would be a significant step forward in enhancing railway safety, especially in the context of increasing bob cad load. This is an issue that needs attention and resolution to ensure the safety of both railway workers and the community.
