chatanuga ...tarps, ...
A while back I was watching the Deshler rail cam and spotted a tarp hanging over a tank car. A Large Tarp.
The call taker at CSX was a little incredulous that someone in NY had spotted a problem in OH, but took the information.
I presume the unfortunate conductor had a bit of a walk ahead of him - it was closer to the rear of the train than the front. Not to mention the fun he probably had wrestling the tarp off the car.
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...
A public safety hazard at any speed.
In their frenzy for short term profits (before and above and beyond PSR) the railroads don't have enough personnel to run properly and safely. Cut too many corners and accidents happen.
chatanugaI've seen straps, chains, tarps, lots of stuff hanging off the sides of cars as trains roll past. I always keep a safe distance back, and I always prefer to watch the direction that the train is coming from watching for any trouble approaching rather than having my back turned and not see something before it's too late. Kevin
Kevin
By the same token - when stopped as the head out car at a road crossing - give the train room - 50ft cars go sideways in derailments - give yourself a chance.
Never too old to have a happy childhood!
I've seen straps, chains, tarps, lots of stuff hanging off the sides of cars as trains roll past. I always keep a safe distance back, and I always prefer to watch the direction that the train is coming from watching for any trouble approaching rather than having my back turned and not see something before it's too late.
http://chatanuga.org/RailPage.html
http://chatanuga.org/WLMR.html
We were boarding one of our Polar Express trains some years ago when an eastbound freight came through Utica on track two. Fortunately, our platform is on the north side of track one - a nice safety margin.
About ten cars from the end of the train we spotted a large chain dangling off a flat car, bouncing off the ballast.
As they say, "that would have left a mark."
We contacted the dispatcher, who presumably contacted the train.
Lading straps, scrap metal, wood chips, et al. When handing on train orders one was always best advised to stand back once the lead locomotive passed and step back in when the caboose markers neared until delivery was effected. Occasionally one would see a faint sparking as some object dragged in the ballast.
Thank You.
Lumber, pipe, and the steel banding used to tie down all manner of loads can do this too:
Greetings from Alberta
-an Articulate Malcontent
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