OPRRMS Wrote:
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> Here's what the GCOR says:
>
> 8.4: Lining Main Track Switch
>
> When an employee lines the switch to let a train
> enter or leave the main track, the employee
> must then go to the opposite side of the main
> track and not return to the switch stand until
> movement is complete. If unable to go to the
> opposite side of the track, the employee must
> stand at least 20 feet from the switch stand.
>
> 8.7: Clear of Main Track Switches
>
> Except in switching movements, when a train or
> engine is approaching or passing on a main
> track, employees must not go nearer than 20 feet
> to any main track switch.
>
> When a train or engine that will be met or passed
> is on a siding or other track, the employee
> attending the switch must be in a safe location.
> The employee must not be nearer than 150
> feet, if possible, from the switch when the train
> is closely approaching and passing.
>
> By creating a rule, any rule, it acts as a tool
> for the company to place blame on a offending
> employee, and thus limit the company's liablity
> (as in, "We have a rule against it, and the man
> violated it."), but it doesn't prevent the
> infraction from happening. Only an employee with
> the ability to follow instructions and use common
> sense can do that.
>
> Saying that rules are written in blood is merely a
> scare tactic that one could apply to just about
> anything, whether they really do or not.


You could also look at it and think about how many switchmen have avoided injury because a rule was in place governing the lining of a switch. Clearly before the rule was in place people were getting hurt because they weren't all using a tested and safe procedure. Now when some tired MOW foreman spikes a switch and forgets to tag it, procedure dictates that the switch is inspected before lining. So not only is it a way for the company to cover its ass, it also may save someone from getting hurt. Again, if only one person is saved from this rule then it's worth it right?