It's in our rules - no phones (etc) in the cab. Inasmuch as we are not issued "company" cell phone, our conductors are allowed to carry their personal device. Some still turn them off and stow them.
Note, too, that the engineer's cell phone must be off and stowed where he/she cannot easily access. Mine goes in my grip. Inspectors have been known to call such phones, and if they get anything that indicates the phone isn't off, crew members can be gigged, as well.
In addition, even if a crew member is allowed to have a phone on their person, they cannot use it when involved in a movement - no talking on the phone while manning a switch during switching, etc.
If a crew member must use a cell phone in the performance of their duties, a job briefing must be held. In our case, we sometimes cancel our Form D once we clear DCS territory so another train can get their Form D and depart as soon as we are in the clear. Assignments will be made so the conductor is not involved in movements.
We occasionally have visitors in the cab - we can (and have) ask them to secure their device, be it a phone, tablet, or even a camera...
Larry Resident Microferroequinologist (at least at my house) Everyone goes home; Safety begins with you My Opinion. Standard Disclaimers Apply. No Expiration Date Come ride the rails with me! There's one thing about humility - the moment you think you've got it, you've lost it...
Metra says it, Metra means it. Use those things on the job and you're history.
I'd hope all transit agencies enforce that rule with the same vengeance.
Whether caused by cell phones, tablets or whatever, distractions can lead to danger and even deaths, as in the case of the Philadelphia Amtrak NER derailment last year.
C&NW, CA&E, MILW, CGW and IC fan
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