Exploration of Training to Address Human Factor Risks in Railroad Switching and Shoving
- Federal Railroad Administration
Switching operations remain one of the highest-risk areas in railroad operations, with shove movements linked to a large share of human-factor incidents. This research examined safety risks and training gaps and developed a supplemental two-day pilot course delivered at the TTC in Pueblo, CO. Data from 2016 – 2024 showed 59% of human-factor incidents stem from switching operations, and shove-related fatalities remain a growing concern. Interviews and CTA identified inconsistent OJT, situational-awareness challenges, and the need for scenario-based training. Pilot course feedback from participants supports expanded TTC training focused on shove movements, close clearances, error-based “don’t” scenarios, situational awareness, and communications driven by SOFA incident cases.