NTSB Issues Safety Alert: Unsecured Rail Equipment Poses Risks to Workers

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has issued a critical safety alert regarding the significant risks of severe injury or death to railroad employees due to the unexpected movement of unsecured rail cars and equipment. The agency’s warning follows an investigation into five fatal or serious injury accidents occurring between July 2024 and July 2025, where employees were struck by unsecured equipment while working on or near the track.

Risks Highlighted for On-Track Personnel

Railroad employees are facing a heightened risk of severe harm or fatality when performing duties within the track gauge without first confirming that all rail cars and equipment are completely stationary and secured against any potential movement. The NTSB’s alert emphasizes that this oversight can lead to tragic consequences, as evidenced by the five accidents investigated by the board within a single year. These incidents underscore the urgent need for enhanced vigilance and adherence to safety protocols by all personnel operating in and around active rail lines.

Understanding “Fouled Track”

The safety alert clarifies the critical concept of a “fouled track,” defined as any situation where an individual or equipment occupies the track gauge or comes within a four-foot proximity of the nearest rail. This condition creates a dangerous environment, as it places personnel or assets within the potential path of moving trains or on-track equipment. The NTSB’s findings indicate that a failure to recognize and mitigate the risk of a fouled track is a recurring factor in preventable accidents.

NTSB’s Safety Recommendations

In response to these findings, the NTSB’s safety alert provides essential guidance to railroad employees on how to prevent unexpected movement of on-track equipment. The document details the potential causes behind such movements and outlines specific, actionable steps that personnel can and must take to ensure their personal safety. Adherence to these recommendations is paramount to reducing the frequency of accidents and safeguarding the lives of railroad workers across the industry.

Industry Context

This proactive safety alert from the NTSB carries significant implications for rail operators and their supply chain partners. The financial and human costs associated with serious workplace accidents are substantial, impacting operational efficiency, insurance premiums, and corporate reputation. By highlighting these risks and providing clear mitigation strategies, the NTSB aims to foster a stronger safety culture, encouraging investment in training and technology that prioritizes the well-being of the railroad workforce. CEOs and senior management must recognize this alert as a critical call to action to reinforce safety protocols and ensure robust oversight to prevent future tragedies.