The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued two safety alerts in November regarding rail operations: the first addressed the risks of shoving moves, and the second concerned the dangers of unexpected equipment moves. The BLET Safety Task Force urges all members to review and study both safety alerts and to remain vigilant while on duty.
SA-103, issued on November 5, warns conductors about the increased risk of death and injury while riding equipment during shoving movements. NTSB said that of the 20 conductor fatalities reported to the Federal Railroad Administration over a five-year period (January 2020-July 2025), 14 involved conductors riding trains during shoving movements. SA-103 provides safety guidance that conductors should follow while working with shoving movements. Click here to read SA-103 in its entirety.
SA-104, also issued on November 5, warns all railroad employees about the significant risk of injury or death from the unexpected movement of unsecured equipment on railroad tracks. NTSB said it has investigated five accidents in a one-year period (July 2024-July 2025) in which railroad employees were seriously hurt or killed when they fouled the track and were then struck by unsecured equipment. SA-104 reminds railroad workers to stay alert and expect equipment to move on any track, at any time, from any direction. Click here to read SA-104.