8 Hazards That Can Injure Railroad Workers

| Updated on March 27, 2024

It’s obvious – railroad sites are among the most susceptible places for accidents. From falling off the tracks to being hit by a train, you don’t know when that unfortunate event may happen to you. And if God forbid something bad happens to you, it’d be important to know how to think straight and the right steps to take. To educate you on the same, we have compiled a list of workplace hazard instances injured railroad workers need to know. Take a look.

Electrocution

One of the biggest dangers that railroad workers face is electrocution. Electricity is everywhere on the railroad, from the third rail that powers the trains to the overhead wires that power the signals. Workers need to be careful around all electrical sources and ensure they are properly insulated when working with them.

Falls

Workers may be working on elevated platforms or trains, which puts them at risk of falling if they are not careful. Workers should always use safety equipment when working in elevated areas and be aware of their surroundings to avoid falling.

Chemicals

Many chemicals are used on the railroad, from cleaning products to fuel for the trains. These chemicals can be harmful if workers are not properly protected from them. Workers should always wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when working with or around chemicals.

Noise

Noise is an overlooked hazard but can be very dangerous for railroad workers. The constant noise from trains and other machinery can damage workers’ hearing over time. Workers should always wear hearing protection when working in noisy areas and have their hearing checked regularly.

Stress

Working on the railroad can be very stressful due to the long hours, tight deadlines, and dangerous work conditions. This stress can lead to health problems such as anxiety and depression. Workers must find ways to manage their stress levels and get support from their families and friends.

Musculoskeletal Disorders

The repetitive nature of many railroad jobs can lead to musculoskeletal disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome and back pain. These disorders can be debilitating and cause workers to miss work or be unable to perform their jobs properly. Workers should take breaks often and stretch to avoid these disorders.

Slip, Trips, and Falls

Wet or oily surfaces, loose cords, and cluttered work areas can all contribute to these accidents. Workers should always be aware of their surroundings and clean up anything they deem a safety hazard.

Train Collisions

Although train collisions are not as common as other accidents, they can be very dangerous. Workers should always be aware of oncoming trains and ensure they are clear of the tracks before a train passes.

Why Call an Accident Attorney After a Railroad Workplace Accident?

If your employer denies you medical help after the workplace injury, you must take legal action to seek justice. Calling an injury lawyer is one such decision; here are a few reasons.

You May Be Entitled to Compensation

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and pain if you’ve been injured in a railroad workplace accident. An experienced accident attorney can help you determine what types of compensation you may be eligible for and will fight to get you the maximum compensation possible.

The Railroad May Be at Fault

In many cases, the railroad company may be at fault for a workplace accident. For example, the company may be liable for any accidents if the railroad fails to maintain its equipment or provide its employees with proper safety training. An experienced accident lawyer will investigate the cause of your accident and will hold the responsible party accountable.

You Need an Experienced Professional

Railroad companies are large and powerful entities that have their team of lawyers working to protect their interests. If you’ve been injured in a railroad workplace accident, you need an experienced attorney on your side who can level the playing field and fight for your rights.

Time is of the Essence

It’s important to contact an experienced accident attorney immediately after a railroad workplace accident. There are strict deadlines for filing a claim against a railroad company, so it’s important to act quickly. An experienced attorney will make sure that your claim is filed on time and will work to get you the compensation you deserve.

Final Word

Working on the railroad can be dangerous, but there are many ways to stay safe. Workers must be aware of their hazards and take precautions to protect themselves. By following safety guidelines and using proper PPE, workers can minimize their risk of injury while working on the railroad.

Did you find this blog post informative? Share it with your friends and family to help them stay safe while working on the railroad!





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