NTSB Safety Alert: Unsecured Equipment on US Railroad Tracks

The NTSB warns of hazards from unsecured equipment on **railroad tracks**, after investigations revealed severe injuries. Ensure proper securing of all **rail** equipment to protect workers.

NTSB Safety Alert: Unsecured Equipment on US Railroad Tracks
November 9, 2025 3:54 am | Last Update: November 9, 2025 3:56 am
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Introduction

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued a safety alert this week concerning the hazards of unsecured equipment movement on railroad tracks, following investigations into accidents between July 2024 and July 2025.

Background

The NTSB’s safety alert aims to mitigate risks to railroad employees, who are at significant risk of severe injury or death when accessing the track gauge without verifying that all track equipment is stationary and correctly secured.

Accident Investigations

The NTSB investigated five incidents between July 2024 and July 2025 where railroad employees sustained severe injuries or fatalities after being struck by unsecured equipment while working on the track.

Risk Factors

The safety alert highlighted several causes for unexpected equipment movement:

  • Equipment may appear stationary but could roll unexpectedly due to accidental or incorrect brake release or the insufficient use of hand brakes.
  • Rail cars coupled with locomotives may move if locomotive controls are not properly secured or if the engineer inadvertently operates the throttle, reverser, or brakes.

Safety Recommendations

The alert did not explicitly provide any safety recommendations.

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Conclusion

The National Transportation Safety Board’s alert addresses the risks associated with the unexpected movement of unsecured equipment on railroad tracks, based on investigations conducted between July 2024 and July 2025. The alert outlines several causes for these movements, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities among railroad employees.

Company Summary

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB): The NTSB is responsible for investigating civil transportation accidents in the United States.

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