CSX-Sucks!

Safety First

Rule #1 -- Don't get hurt.

    Safety is the first priority. Er, or is it the second, after money.... Or the third after getting the trains out....



Webmaster's note:

Since I go through the server logs regularly, I just thought I'd take this opportunity to point out that all of the comments in defense of the company seem to come from Jacksonville, while complaints come from everywhere that the company does business.

You do the math.



Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 07 January 2009

does anybody know what came about with the new hire entry rates? I
thought we was suppose to know something at the beginning of the year

Name: loco mojo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 06 January 2009

how are the laysoffs in philly going?

Name: co training
E-mail: 
Employed as: Employed in other capacity, for 1-10 years
Posted: 06 January 2009

Wake up!


How long is it going to take you knew hires to figure out that you were
doomed when you went to our school! Thousands upon thousands were spent
to build the school as well as expand upon it!

Use your head for just one moment. New recruits dont have to pay for
their schooling. Then they are sent to the yards of the companys choice
to receive up to as much as 16 weeks of PAID training. Then they turn
around and furlough them. Now, do the math! How in the world could csx
be making any kind of profit running the school like that. How are they
recouping their cost?  How can they possibly pay for the electric,
cleaning services, cooks, teachers, materials and everything else that
needed for the upkeep of the school?

The answer is federal grants.  As long as they keep getting assistance
the school will remain open. They also need employee turnover to
justify rounding up new recruits. DONT EXPECT head hunting in the
fields to slow down. TURN OVERS ARE A MUST! Nothing will change until
our federal gov. realizes they are throwing money into a school that is
doing nothing but hearding in the trainess like cattle then cutting them
loose just to cut their legs off. This is NOT a good investment for or
gov. or our economy for that matter. Especially with our country in the
financial shape it is now. When they finally wake up and get a clue they
will cut their funding off.  NO MORE FUNDS! Only then will csx change
their attitudes because those of you who have survived the storm will
be a precious commodity!

Name: T
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 06 January 2009

and they don't have to....

Name: Goober
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 06 January 2009

To Loyd from 1/3/09

I can tell you why some of the old heads do not retire.

1. They like to work and are single.
2. They are broke.
3. They can't stand their wife.
4. They want a new Harley.
5. They want a new Truck.
6. They want a few more bucks in the Bank.
7, They do not want to pull the pin, and have nothing to do.
8. They need insurance. medicare kicks in at 65
9  They like the money, are used to not having it.
10. The old heads are not your enemy, they can be your friend. I
borrowed money from them, they got me places to live and sleep. They
were tough but always came thru when ya really needed help.

GOOFY

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 06 January 2009

Get a lawyer as soon as possable.. find one that deals with labor law
and prefordably one that deals with railroad labor law... after you go
thought the "prossess" of the "chain of actions" that can drag on
for next to ever.. a lawyer can light a fire under it on your behalf to
get things moving alittle faster for you... GET A LAWYER ASAP!!!!!

that is all..........

Name: Shan
E-mail: ShannonSWalker@Katyisd.org
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 06 January 2009

While my husband was NOT an employee of CSX he was one for UP.  He was
dismissed after one mistake (and owning up to it) and never having a
blemish on his record for 7 yrs and several others have done far worse
than he and were put back to work within days of committing their
offense. Also, the jerk that turned him in had harrassed him since day
one and we have documentation where it was requested that some kind of
formal reprimand was done to take care of this and of course, NOTHING
WAS DONE !!  We have had a claim filed with BRS for 2.5 yrs and nothing
has happened with it.  It is still in arbitration.  Anyone have any
suggestions for filing a suit or getting an attorney??? What should our
next step be, we only have until July and then they dismissed it all
together form what we understand.  He is a great signalmen with alot of
backpay owed to him !!  God Bless and thank you very much for any help
you can provide.

Name: Retiree
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 30+ years
Posted: 05 January 2009

Furloughs happen.  Get use to it.  Young or old, when freight gets slow,
every age bracket gets a turn.  You may need 20+ years to hold ANY job
by the end of 2009. 

Great economic planning by our fearless leaders.  God bless em.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 30+ years
Posted: 04 January 2009

on my last post i made an errow instead of 60 years old to retire you
had to be 65 years old.the r.r. is still a good job if the boss would
just quit trying to get something on each and everyone this keeps
morale of everyone in a bad mood.also we could make as little as 120
days to qualify for a vacation it has double that now.if you donot get
to work for about six or seven months you will not qualify for a
vacation.you could have your retirement fund paid in by Nov today you
are lucky and must work your ass off to get retirement fund by the end
of the year.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 04 January 2009

Hey HTL:

What did you say?

Your 79 and sunning! Make sure you use at least a SPF 45 to keep your
baby soft carcass from burning!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 30+ years
Posted: 04 January 2009

to the young conductors that are furloughed. i am retired now thank
goodness after 42 years SErvice. when i hired out the r.r. was a real
good job but time has change all that. we had no gurantee extra board
sometimes we even made as much as 600 miles a half maybe 200.00 DOLLARS
OUR EXTRA BOARD WAS FULL NO CUTTING BECAUSE THE R.R. DID NOT HAVE TO PAY
SOMEONE TO SIT AT HOME SINCE THE R.R. HAS GOT A GURANTEE BOARD THEY
REGULATE THE BOARD. THE OLD MEN IS NOT THE REASON THAT ALL OF YOU IS
NOT WORKING IT IS BECAUSE THE R.R. GOT ON A HIRING SPREE AND DID NOT
KNOW WHEN TO QUIT AND STILL HIRING PEOPLE TO WORK WHEN THEY ARE
EMPLOYEES WITH OVER 3 YEARS SERVICE CUT OFF. THE R.R. IS IN THE PROCESS
OF JUST FIRING EMPLOYEES BUT IF YOU WILL NOTICE WHEN THEY DO THE R.R.
DOES NOT ADD ANOTHER PERSON TO THE EXTRA BOARD THE SAME IS TRUE WHEN
ONE OR TWO EMPLOYEES RETIRE.WHEN I HIRED OUT YOUR TRAINMASTER AND ROAD
FOREMAN WAS HIRED TO HELP EMPLYEES NOW IT IS RIGHT THE OTHER WAY THEY
ARE HIRED TO FIRE YOU FOR ANY AND EVERY LITTLE RULE YOU DO WRONG.THIS
MAY BE  THE ONLY JOB I KNOW OF THAT  THE R.R.HIRE YOU THEN THEY HIRE
SOMEONE TO FIRE YOU. YOU COULD NOT RETIRE UNTILL YOUR REACH YOUR 60TH
BIRTHDAY AND ALMOST EVERYONE WORKED UNTIL 70 YEARS OF AGE ACCT MOST OF
THEM HAD BEEN CUT OFF SO MUCH SOMETIMES AS MUCH AS 5 YEARS.EVEN WITH
ALL THIS WE HAD IT GOOD.NO LODGING NO TAXIE NO MEALS ALLOWANCE AT ALL
ALL DEADHEADING WAS DONE ON TRAINS.

Name: htlong
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 04 January 2009

hey dont blame me!   79 and sunny today......wish I could get in 1 more
trip this half......NOT!
retired and loving every moment.......whats the wind chill up there
today?

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 30+ years
Posted: 03 January 2009

The problems with the furloughs isn't the old heads not retiring. It's
the dingbats in CSX that are still hiring and training men now, while
you have men furloughed. Does this make any sense to anyone?
  The old heads today are retiring at a lot younger age than those old
shit bastards I use to work with when I started.

Name: Lloyd
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 03 January 2009

I think the conductor who posted earlier about the old heads might have
been whining but he does have somewhat of a valid point.  I know I know
a lot of you older guys out here work because you still have to because
of insurance needs or other family problems and that is totally
understandable.  What I dont get are the guys who are over 60 and dont
need the money but are still out here.  I don't think younger guys
feel the sense of entitlement as much as they are angry because when
CSX hired them, they felt (as I) that we were really needed and we had
a secure job.  The real problem is crew management down in Jacksonville
trying to predict when people are going to retire and bringing in way to
many employees in certain terminals.  With the way the job market is
today when you do get furloughed it is very hard to find something
decent and a lot of the men being furloughed cant even draw
unemployment yet through this company because they have not been on a
year.  On top of all that, when you do try to find a decent job you are
basically lying to anyone who will hire you by saying you wont come back
to the RR if they call...oh thats right I forgot they dont fall for that
usually.  

I think all who are furloughed, or most I should say know that a lot of
you guys with seniority had to go through the same issues but its never
easy and someone should be held accountable.  When you have guys who
are in certain divisions with 5 plus years of service being furloughed
where does that leave the guy who hasnt even been on a year?  I guess
all we can do is hope things pick up so all these guys are working
again but right now the future isnt looking so bright.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 03 January 2009

Hey Con 1-10:

It's not the old heads that's causing the furloughs. It's your
relative position on the seniority roster that gets you. You're at the
bottom of the roster...even if the all old heads left you'd still be at
the bottom of the roster. 

Also keep in mind that when the last of the protected employees retires
all the jobs on the RR will be peg legged. So you should be glad
they're there...that's why you have a job today!

Maybe you'll still be around in 15 years when that happens, you'll
then be an old head and you can listen all the new hires bellyache
about the old heads!!!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 03 January 2009

csx furloughed over 300 employees and from what i understand there is
more to come if you old heads would just retire and enjoy your life but
you must not have one and thats why you want to put young people out of
jobs and on the streets csx may have had a record year but if there
isnt freight to run they have to cuts jobs and if the 70  and 80 year
olds would just retire at my terminal some conductor just got a 50 year
pin ..come on its time 2 go  15 years ago...!!! this pisses me off!! i
know csx could probably afford to keep us all on ex bd. and make money
still..but old heads!!! retire there isnt gonna be a
buyout..jeez...happy new year oh and by the way we have 2 furlough
you..haha gotta love it...

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 02 January 2009

Mr. Trainmaster with 1 to 10 yrs, in responce to your claim of negative
post, this is not one, nope no negativity here. Just found it
intresting how you stated jobs were givin to us out of the kindness of
"OUR" hearts, your heart wasn't here when I hired out, but maybe
thats how you are taught to reply to adversity. Try putting your heart
is some of the guys that don't have a job right now. After all think
about it, fat can only be trimmed so thin on T&E employees until the
company looks other directions ie: management, so be careful how you
treat people, a Trainmaster of 1-10yrs isn't all that secure
him/herself. Management cuts wil be here before you know it hodrod.
Take it from someone whos heart is here, I have seen management
escorted off the property more than once. So treat people with respect
and dignity and you just might succeed as a trainmaster, someone will
work for, and things will get done. Just remember, when only a few
indians are left there is no need for an excess amount of
cheifs......cheif

Name: bob
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 02 January 2009

I don't feel like working tomorrow, I think I'll mark off safety.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 30+ years
Posted: 02 January 2009

TO THE TRAINMASTER THAT THINKS EVERYONE SHOULD BE THANKFUL FOR THEIR
JOBS. I POSTED THE LAST POST WHERE I WENT TO WORK IN 1966 BY THE WAY I
AM RETIRED NOW THANK GOODNESS. IT MUST BE ONE HELL OF A JOB JUST TO
KNOW THAT YOUR ONLY JOB IS TO RUN SOMEONE ELSE OFF AND MAYBE COST THEM
EVERYTHING THAT THEY HAVE WORKED FOR SOME FOR YEARS OF HARD WORK.I KNOW
OF A COUPLE OF PEOPLE THAT IS RUN OFF FOR RULE VIOLATION THAT WE WERE
REQUIRED TO DO YEARS AGO OR ELSE WE WERE NOT GOOD R.R. WORKERS.MOST OF
THE YOUNG TRAINMASTERS THAT IS WORKING NOW KNOWS VERY LITTLE ABOUT
RAILROADING JUST THE RULES THAT IS MADE TO GET SOMEONE FIRED. IN THE
LONG RUN I REALLY FEAL SORRY FOR YOU.IT IS ONLY YOUAND YOUR LIFE THAT
HAS TO LIVE WITH THE FACT THAT BECAUSE OF YOU SOMEONE DOES NOT HAVE A
JOB TO SUPPORT THEIR FAMILY.FOR YOUR SIDE OF THE STORY ALOT OF PEOPLE
GOT HURT WAS JUST LOOKING FOR A WAY OUT AND I LOOK BACK NOW AND I DONOT
BLAME THEM THEY WERE JUST SMARTER THAN ME.I COULD HAVE GOT A COUPLE OF
BIG SETTLEMENTS BUT DIDNOT NOW I AM SORRY I DIDNOT FOR A JOB THAT I PUT
IN 42 YEARS WITH. THINK A ABOUT SOMEONE ELSE LIFE BEFORE YOU RUN THEM
OFF TALK TO THIS PERSON INSTEAD HELP THIS PERSON INSTEAD OF TRYING TO
PUT A STAR IN YOUR RECORD.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 30+ years
Posted: 02 January 2009

TO THE TRAINMASTER THAT THINKS EVERYONE SHOULD BE THANKFUL. I WENT TO
WORK IN 1966 BACK THEN A TRAINMASTER OR ROADFOREMANS JOB WAS TO HELP US
WITH OUR JOBS IN GEETING A TRAIN OVER THE ROAD NOW THEIR JOB IS TO SEE
HOW MANY PEOPLE THEY CAN RUN OFF NOT HELP THEM.I SAW ALOT OF
TRAINMASTERS AND ROADFOREMANS COME AND GO BUT BACK THEN THEY HAD A JOB
TO GO BACK TO EITHER A CONDRS OR ENGINEERS JOB. NOW HOWEVER YOU HAVE NO
WHERE TO GO OR MOST TRAINMASTERS DONOT NOT IF YOU WILL BE LET GO BUT
WHEN. THIS IS WHEN YOU WILL CHANGE YOUR OPINION OF THE R.R.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 01 January 2009

I think the Trainmaster started his New Years celebration a little 
early..."the goodness of our hearts", those are gizzards that pump
blood!

Name: C&O JOE
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 01 January 2009

Anyone have the details on Scott Kuhners being fired in Chicago? Rumor
has it he's coming back to Yardmaster at Huntington.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Train Master/ supervisor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 01 January 2009

all of you who have posted anything negative should feel bad about
yourselfs.  Most of you came to this company hoping and praying for a
job that would support you and your family and out of the kindness of
our hearts you was given a opportunity to provide a service. Now you
have a job that is paying you well, so be happy and thankful and remain
safe.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 30+ years
Posted: 28 December 2008

Name: doesnotmatter
E-mail: 
Employed as: Corporate office, for N/A
Posted: 27 December 2008

To:FRA Inspector

Employees should be aware, giving negative infomation to a FRA
Inspector is not always going too be used against CSX or another
Railroad.  Some Inspectors are buddies with Management plus CSX can
bribe higher up government officials.   If you are trying too get your
employer in trouble then this might not be such a wise choice.   The
FRA does not send your paycheck every 2 weeks plus all the other
benefits.  Remember the kids and wife got too eat.

If this site was setup with better website software and format then
maybe this could be a forum for improvements. 

Railroad.net is a nice site and setup well

---------------------------------------------------------------------
You can't even use this site properly. How would you know what better
software is and how to use it? You put the same thread up under all
categories. Geeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeezzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

It has been my experience that the carrier usually tries to make the
employee sound like a disgruntled employee, if a on going violation is
reported. My advice is know who your FRA Inspectors are. Know all of
them, ops., hazmat, MP&E, signals and track. Invite them to your union
meetings to explain new CFR's when major changes are made.

I'm sure there are inspectors that hint to the carrier who the
employee was that reported a violation, but most don't. In fact most
of the times railroads know the violation already exist, but are
willing to let it slide and pretend they know nothing of it. The
carrier knows it will take time, money or both to correct a specific
problem. They let it continue until an employee gets hurt or a state or
federal inspector discovers the problem. Then the railroad blames the
employee or crew. Documentation is paramount. Even if you report the
problem to a supervisor verbally, they usually say it has never been
reported when push comes to shove. The UTU and BLE&T both have SLD's
in each state. If you have a on going condition, write it up to them.
They can address the problem without giving your name. If you have
developed a god relationship with the FRA and report legidimate
violations, they won't sell you out either. 

Sometimes you have to grow a set and report potentially dangerous
violations. I've reported many during my time and I'm still working.
I've always documented the problems in writing. First I do it with the
company and if I get no results I send a copy to the FRA if the problem
is serious enough. If it's a ongoing minor problem, I start verbally
and carry it to what ever level I'm forced to. Remember the company
says they want 100 percent safety, hold their feet to the fire. WE know
they only want safety when it doesn't cost anything.

I did loose a lot of respect for the FRA when the UP was paying for
vacations for a certain person. Of course that person is no longer
there. That has nothing to do with the inspectors in my local area.
These guys have done a good job to help us. I hope the funding isn't
cut for the new people who are to be hired. They have been understaffed
for years.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 28 December 2008

A good friend of mine is a terminal trainmaster for NS, he said that
there's been a lot of talking over there about a possible purchase of
the KCS sometime by the end of '09 or early '10. I told him it
sounded like good ole rr gossip but he said the a committee has been
hired to investigate this possibility with the Feds and the NS. Stay
tuned.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 27 December 2008

Hey Inspector:

Seems like doesnotmatter doesn't care for your suggestion...thinks
it might lead to employees filing false reports against CSX with the
FRA. 

Additionally, he seems to think CSX might attempt to bribe the
inspectors or their bosses; and doesn't think you're a FRA employee.

Finally, he says..."Remember the kids and wife got too eat." If I
didn't know any better I might be inclined to read that as a veiled
threat to intimidate everyone!

You got some one's attention...now it's the employees turn to add a
little to the pot!

Name: doesnotmatter
E-mail: 
Employed as: Corporate office, for N/A
Posted: 27 December 2008

To:FRA Inspector

Employees should be aware, giving negative infomation to a FRA
Inspector is not always going too be used against CSX or another
Railroad.  Some Inspectors are buddies with Management plus CSX can
bribe higher up government officials.   If you are trying too get your
employer in trouble then this might not be such a wise choice.   The
FRA does not send your paycheck every 2 weeks plus all the other
benefits.  Remember the kids and wife got too eat.

If this site was setup with better website software and format then
maybe this could be a forum for improvements. 

Railroad.net is a nice site and setup well

Name: FRA Inspector
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 27 December 2008

Mr. NoMo

Very astute!

If used properly, it would seem logical that, this site could be put to
good use for those of us who know "To do what's right" but are
restricted.

Many simple safety issues can be addressed through exposure.

Name: Ralph
E-mail: 
Employed as: Employed in other capacity, for 30+ years
Posted: 26 December 2008

Question......What do you get with CSX Layoff Employees?

A whine cellar.

HO HO HO  Merry Christmas to future CSX Layoff Employees !

Name: fedup
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 10-20 years
Posted: 25 December 2008

Just would like to know what our beloved company with its record
breaking profits got everyone for x-mas?

Ill start- notta a fukin thing, warm letter from ward letting me know
how Ive contributed to his wealth. we didnt even have a safety dinner,
but at least they annulled my job, by the way, by contract, im supposed
to be entitled to a 08 claim, i feel confident the utu will get me all
these 08's paid for this year, starting to lose hope about the
previous years 08 claims, surely my union wont let me down.

AND IF YOU DIDNT KNOW...CSX SUCKS AND OUR UNIONS ARE SUCKING THEM!!!!!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Brakeman, for Less than 1 year
Posted: 25 December 2008

I am a new employee with csx. I hired out this year and have not been
marked up long. I work out of Erwin Tn. I was reporting for work
yesterday ( the day before Christmas Eve ) and opened my ears up to a
consversation between two employees a trainmaster and the terminal
manager. The talk was that all yard switchman positions was going to be
cut off at the first of the year. They just installed electronic
switches all over the yard I guess is the reason. They are also cutting
off all utility and hostler jobs. This will affect me im sure. I knew
before coming to work here that there had been guys fourloughd for a
long time so i knew there was a chance, but I didnt expect to get hired
and then them cutt that many jobs off. My question is does mow employees
ever get the fourlough status? does csx ever cut back on trainmasters
where the bigger money is? does CSX ever cutt back on crew management
or payroll etc. Is it just transportation? You would figure by keeping
transportation strong your company would perform more smoothly. Watch
out for electronic switches cuting your switchman off at a terminal
near you. I cant imagine how this would affect a big terminal
considering the damage its going to do to a small terminal like little
erwin tn.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 24 December 2008

Hey Curious:

I'll tell you why...the FRA is stretched paper thin. I worked for CSX
for almost 5 years, in 3 yards and 4 LORs. 1.5 years after applying to
the FRA for an operating rules inspector, they notified me that I
didn't meet the qualifications, imagine that; probably the second
thing to happen to me(besides being fired by CSX).

The poster knows how the RR works, probably an ex-railroader. They know
if you file a formal complaint, you're a dead duck. They're just
trying to save you a lot of unnecessary grief.

They offered an alternative solution, use it...make CSX comply to the
rules, just like CSX makes you comply.

Everybody wins...the employees, the public, and in the final analysis
CSX.

Name: curious
E-mail: 
Employed as: APE, for Less than 1 year
Posted: 24 December 2008

MR.FRA

I noticed in your posting to NOMO that you suggested he make an
annonymous report on the bell and horn. I also noticed the webmaster
made a note on your posting that it did indeed come from a government
office. So Im going to assume it was really an FRA inspector who made
the comment.

Why would NOMO have to make himself annonymous in his report if what he
was reporting was truly a violation of your regs?  Are you saying that
maybe he might be retaliated against by the company if he reveals
himself. Why else would he have to hide his identity? If you feel this
way then you must be aware of this practice and how long it has been
going on. Why has the FRA not set up some kind of internal sting to
"NAB" the company officials who are doing such acts?

Name: C&O JOE
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 23 December 2008

anyone know anything about Dwayne Pelham?

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 23 December 2008

Hey Santa:

NS Merry Christmas   
http://www.nscorp.com/nscorphtml/ecard/norfolk_southern_ecard.html

Name: J.P.
E-mail: 
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for N/A
Posted: 23 December 2008

santa clause, you didn,t know you were going to get laid off! WOW, dude
im 13 and even i know that you will get laid off sooner or later. wow
your dumb.

Name: Santa Claus
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 23 December 2008

When I was hired I was never told that there was even a possibility of
being layed off as soon as I marked up. I was told that business was
booming and where I went to work at never furloughed. SURPRISE!! JUST
KIDDING!     I'm now layed off with no income with no clue of if or
when I'll ever get called back.(Merry Christmas) My last job didn't
pay as much but then again I didn't work 100 hours a week but it was
enough to pay the bills and feed the family and buy a few Christmas
presents.
  The funniest part about the whole situation is that I received
Tony's Christmas greeting letter in the mail a few days after I lost
my job telling me how valuable I was and what a great year we had and
that things were still going strong and that they were still hiring.
Nothing like a good slap across the face when your down!!LOL
 CSX is no different than any other company I've ever worked for.
Safety is a major concern as long as it doesn't cost any money to fix
the problem.     HO HO HO Merry Christmas to all' well almost
everyone!!

Name: J.P.
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 23 December 2008

Hey nomo im jack and jp. also whatever moron told me not to become a
train driver is dumb, stupid and is not holding me back. i know what i
have to do my grandfather worked on the railroad. plus every time i see
a train i go crazy.  this is to the website, i am sorry for the names.

Name: FRA Inspector
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 23 December 2008

Mr. NoMo

File an (anonomous) report of horn and bell problems to the FRA.
Keep a copy.
Post the report on this site.

FRA is limited in inspectors.  Reports of problems help in identifying
particular safety problem areas.
Webmaster comment: This was posted from a government office, if that's makes a difference to anyone.

Name: Lloyd Christmas
E-mail: 
Employed as: Train Dispatcher, for 10-20 years
Posted: 23 December 2008

Well boys and girls its Lloyd again and I've decided its time to
enlighten all of you with useless comments and points again (according
to Goober).

Its time for a "Race to Zero" where we are all striving in a
competition to beat other divisions with the least amount of accidents
and injuries.  In case anyone doesn't already know, the Mechanical
Dept will win so was there ever a race to start with?  Do you dumbasses
really expect us to believe there is anything in it for us if we do win
this assinine competition of yours?  Newsflash for Ingram and cronies =
nobody gives a fuck.  Especially when you try to nail people for not
testing hand brakes the right way and others for no safety glasses
while they are inside locomotives.  

In other news, now we have a challenge rule where we can basically make
a claim to point out whether we think the person accusing us of a rule
violation is actually in the wrong and we are right. 
Ahahahahaha...ahahahahaha!!  Are you fucking serious guys?  Now we all
know that your word is God and when you say we are breaking a rule we
most certainly are.  Why dont you stuff those challenge forms in the
crew packs so I can wipe my ass with them my next trip.

As for Deborah Donoghue, I am so glad that you felt like you really
needed 10 million dollars from the company all by yourself.  Granted I
think a lot of what this company does to its own employees is beyond
unethical but lets hope you are a little generous with your money since
you think you seem to deserve so much.  

As far as Michael Ward selling his shares and saying it was because of
a divorce...are any of you really buying that bullshit?  I mean I am
quite certain that other funds will invest in this company even if TCI
gets in trouble but why would the CEO of our beloved company sell his
own stock?  There should be red flags flying everywhere right now but I
guess everyone will look away until CSX finds itself in a predicament
like the Big 3.  

I hope everyone has a good Christmas and a happy New Year and please
spend it with your kids and family if you can.  Money is important but
family should always be first.  To the guys out there who are
furloughed I really hope you are getting by somehow and if you come
across another good job...TAKE IT! And dont look back either.  If you
CAN draw RR unemployment try to do it and get a part time job or stay
at home with your kids if your wife has a job to save some $$.  Either
way it goes if you are layed off I hope things get better soon and when
Sallie Mae or whoever loaned your money comes a calling forward them to
Jacksonville Crew Management so they can explain to them why they hired
you and put you on the street soon after.  (oh watching lloyd...like I
said if you know me..I know you so don't think I am real concerned.)

Name: suzannah
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 22 December 2008

NOMO,

You are right. Most engineer dont report problems they encounter
because they have done just that in the past and had no results.
In defense of the engine house, they have their hands tied with their
limited budget. I have heard them complain on numerous occasions that
they cant get parts so they have to decide which repairs are the most
important and fix those first. The others just have to wait.

After my unfortunate encounter with a Tm out on the road, I started
asking questions to make sure that I was doing my job properly. One of
the FRA inspectors was nice enough to bring a copy of the code of FRA
regs and leave it at the yard for me. It was suggested that when I
write up equip.I include the FRA reg that was violated. Alot easier
said than done. Some conditions have been grandfathered out of updated
regs due to age of equipment. Other issues are covered by alternative
methods(such as water to wash hands on engine, now covered by issuing
hand sanitizer). I have read and noted most enforceable regs. I hope to
have a pocket guide made soon. I suggest everyone get their own book if
they are planning on sticking around for awhile. Also keep copies of
what you report. I know an engineer who has kept copies for years! I
will forward you a copy of my guide when I get it finished.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 22 December 2008

Hey Sk

Horns and bells are supposed to work...then why don't they? Because
CSX won't take the time to repair them and nobody is calling the FRA
to report them. Nor is the FRA making the necessary inspections to
catch these violations.

Talking about horns not working properly. Several years ago an outbound
from Gentilly had a horn sound continuously the entire 130+
miles. Glad I missed that one!

As odd as that sounds, I'll bet there are even stranger tales of horns
and bells on the CSX.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Yard Master, for N/A
Posted: 20 December 2008

Ward has had smoke blown up his butt ever since Ingram and Brown came
into power, all these so called great measurements are nothing but
smoke and mirrors. They (Mngmnt) change times, change symbols or run a
crew into outlaw staus and then have yard crews (which should be doing
their own work)relieve those trains. It is like they are taught in
manager school to lie, cheat and instill upon them that its US
(managers)against them (labor).Then there is Ms. Sanborn...what can I
say, not one manager I know can make a decision based on experience
from working the job. So instead of cutting the oversized, under
experienced management team that they have accumalated they keep there
brainwashed robots and get rid of all of their experienced, dedicated
railroaders...Myself, just as many railroaders, at one time believed in
this road, bought stock and worked our tails off to make a go of it, But
just like all other companies they see what a great job your doing,not
understanding how or what you have to do to get your job done and
decide well that job can do even more...enough is enough before someone
gets injured or worse.........I'm selling my stock and advising others
to do the same!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for 1-10 years
Posted: 20 December 2008

Engine 1-10:

WTF??????  Reading this was like trying to read a book with several
chapters missing at key points in the story.  Try again!!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Engine repair, for 1-10 years
Posted: 20 December 2008

I can't say which branch I worked at...but, feel the need and am
compelled to share my story.  First off, I grew up in a small town,
joined the Armed Forces, and then came back and went to college.  I
went to work for CSX a couple of years ago and was working on the
locomotives.  I have always been a rail buff and never really wanted to
do anything else but to belong on the railroad.  I have been a long time
collector of railroad memoribilia..with that being said, if you work for
a railroad and am a collector, I would strongly suggest you get rid of
it.  Do not sell it!  burn it...or throw it in the trash.  It ended up
costing me my job.  I didn't get fired, but was asked to leave.  Not
having the money to secure a lawyer and fight the battle, I decided it
would be in my best interest.  Even though I had substantial
documentation and witnesses that knew I had the material prior to
working on the railroad, it didn't matter to them.  Just thought I
would share the information, as I wouldn't want anyone else to get
treated like the dog they made me out to be.  Not only this, before
everything was said and done, one of the managers was slandering my
name..before anything was decided.  I have never in my life been
punished in such a way.  I could understand maybe if I had a proven
track record.  I've never really been in trouble in any way.  A few
minor traffic infractions...that's it!  But, they responded as if I
was a convicted felon.  The union of course wasn't much help
either...(they advised me to resign)  what a great union!  All the dues
I paid....for nothing...
  I have sinced moved on an am receiving some job offers.  Can't wait
to get my weekends back and start living more of a normal life.


"A smart man learns from his own mistakes, but a wise one learns from
others."

Name: safety is spelled FELA
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 10-20 years
Posted: 20 December 2008

Was there any ever follow up on Collinwood Trainmaster Bob Hinds getting
caught taking a "wide stance" at a rest area bathroom?

Name: Goober
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 19 December 2008

Suzy, 
I see where you are coming from. Time for CSX to step up like the MRL.
It is called a headset, yep it is push to talk, protects your ears.
Same as Airplanes have had for years. NS has them also. Sit down plug
in and the noise is gone. I am shocked that the CSX does not have this
simple answer to your problem. Montana Rail link installed these things
8 years ago.

Head set has a voice activated feature that allows you to speak in a
normal voice to the conductor. The pust to talk is activated when you
push transmit on the headset or a button provided, it will transmit on
the channel selected, and you will hear absolutely nothing from the
locomotive, as the headset has jell cells that surround your ears.

I think the UNION is part of this problem, ear plugs are so foreign,
they are only good for Rap concerts, and cleaning the ear wax out.

GOOFY

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 19 December 2008

hey jp 
        
     let me save you from a headache. Lets start with lemmon head
becouse you sound like one. your headed to atlanta there they will fill
you full of bullshit.Facts are your real training begins when you get to
the yard. then when you become a conductor you will get the ax.That
schooling is nothing but a dog and pony show. dont be a dumb ass and
think this is your ticket to the good life. the good life was about 10
years ago.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 19 December 2008

hey jp 
        
     let me save you from a headache. Lets start with lemmon head
becouse you sound like one. your headed to atlanta there they will fill
you full of bullshit.Facts are your real training begins when you get to
the yard. then when you become a conductor you will get the ax.That
schooling is nothing but a dog and pony show. dont be a dumb ass and
think this is your ticket to the good life. the good life was about 10
years ago.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 19 December 2008

Hey J.P.:

Are you Bob and Jack related...seems like your family tree goes
straight up and doesn't spread out!

Name: J.P.
E-mail: 
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for N/A
Posted: 19 December 2008

Im a huge csx fan. I have ben loving them for almost 10 years. I don't
get why you guys want to make them look bad when thier not. I think
this website is stupid and thier is no point for this website. If your
going to pick on a railroad do it on BNSF

Name: slack action
E-mail: 
Employed as: M of W, for 10-20 years
Posted: 19 December 2008

Hey BOB,  I suggest you seek help.  Even though I do not believe your
story...

Name: John doe
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 19 December 2008

I appreciate the answer Suzzana.  Makes a lot of sense.

I talked to a guy at a crossing where they'd been having trouble with
the lights, gates and stuff comming on.

He said he'd put an order out to the trains comming through towm.  Can
you guys explain to me what takes place when you hear some kind of
message like this.  I always stop, look and listen but don't really
know what I'm to look for. Thanks

Name: Bob
E-mail: 
Employed as: Car repair, for Less than 1 year
Posted: 19 December 2008

I was harrassed by a co-worker. She touched me my private areas. I got
very frightened. Then i ran home to my mom after work and was crying
alot. She told me to call the police but when i picked up the phone the
woman was already on it. I heard her breathing. So i quickly hung up but
she called back. And my dumb mother picked up the phone and said i was
there. So she handed over the phone and the woman said she wanted to
touch me again. I was very scared. I didnt know what to do. So when i
went to work the next morning she touched my butt. So i told the boss.
And he said he didnt care. So then i hit him. I was scared that i was
going to get fired so i hit him again out of rage. Then told him i quit
and i ran with the wind.

Name: jack
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 18 December 2008

you guys are wrong csx rocks and im going to work for them

Name: suzannah
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 18 December 2008

John Doe

The bell is SUPPOSED to come on when you activate the horn. But as we
all know that isnt always the case. In the older models with the
conventional stand, over half of them that I have been on dont work.
You have to pull the handle for the bell and then push it back in to
turn it off. When the horn is blown the air for the horn is supposed to
be rounted to the bell as well and pop out the bell(handle) then when
you are done you push it back in to turn it off. The horns arent that
loud if they are mounted near the center of the hood. If they are
closer to the front they are louder. You have to leave your windows
shut. Sucks when it is 90 degrees outside. You can wear ear plugs but
then some of the older models are so loud and drafty if you do that
then you cant hear each other in the cab and in some cases you cant
hear anyone on the radio either. The horn is nothing. Its the air
exhausting into the cab instead of through the floor when you release
your independent brake that blows your ear drum out by the end of the
day! You are better off finding an old head off this site to sit down
with and pick his brain. There arent enough pages on this site to post
all the "THATS THE WAY IT'S SUPPOSED TO WORK" answers for your
questions

Name: goober
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 17 December 2008

To suzy,
5k or 6k is not the reason many stay and others leave. The RR has
always had short timers. I stayed 7 years and saw a bunch come and go,
many that left were 2nd and 3rd generation RR kids. You will see the
same thing and most likely you already have. Many leave so quick that
you will never know they ever worked there.

As far as TM's working the ground for years that is simply not good
business. You would build a Yardmaster, and not have a Trainmaster. I
can see where you might like that. Just remember the folks that design
a watch do not build it. Most likely they don't know HOW. Folks that
design and build Airplanes do not know how to fly them. Folks that
design and build locomotives do not know how to run them over the road.
I stand corrected they may know HOW, just can't do it.

GOOFY

Name: John Doe
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 17 December 2008

Just curious

Have some questions figured I'd come to the experts.

How does a train horn work?
Does the bell come on at same time?
If you apply air to the horn but not enough to sound will the bell ring
or not.
How do you guys stand this noise over your heads?

Name: rhino cock
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 16 December 2008

I work for another rail road and I love the fact that you recieved the
CEOs that you did. they will ruined your company as a hole then turn
around and sell it while the workers get stabed in the back by the
little fags"train masters" they have working under them and so on
till it finally hits the poor slob at 0200 who is not expecting it.
Then if thats not enough theres the utu reps what do they really do?You
poor hard workers  look at your personal life i bet there is a child at
home that would love to just see you.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 15 December 2008

Man things must be pretty bad right now. This is all CSX has as far a
hirings go.


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Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for 1-10 years
Posted: 15 December 2008

Dong Bagley:

Thanks for the information.  Hopefully, the light will come on that
velocity might go up if slow orders are removed.  Deferred maintenance
has been like a bad tattoo to CSX...... seemed like a good idea at the
time, but now they wish they had never entertained the idea.  After
all, one would think Ingram and Brown would know better!!!!!!!

Name: Dong Bagley
E-mail: undertonyingramsdesk@csx.com
Employed as: M of W, for 1-10 years
Posted: 15 December 2008

friend or family member of employee,
Cant use real name but i have met the individual's who are in power in
MOW in Jacksonville. The people are book and paper smart but common
sense dumb and have no clue what goes on in the field. 

SPG are capital and have nothing to do with section work. Section gangs
are abused and called out anytime on weekends if you answer your phone.
SPG's travel to where the production is but hey they get 175.90 a week
tax free. Service lanes SLWT get to work in their division and get 93.71
a week tax free. SPG's get to do overtime work such as quality that is
optional. 8 on and 6 off is mainly in New York State. Most is 4 ten
hour days. Most section gangs are 5 eight hour days and no expense
money.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 14 December 2008

CSX, they furlough Conductors, and at the same time are hiring new
conductors. 
CSX, they let 5 or 6 Engineers take temporary transfers, then have to
get temporary transfers in from another area to fill in for the ones
they transfered because they are low on manpower
  Who is responsible for making these poor decisions.

Name: suzannah
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 14 December 2008

Goober,

Let me rephrase my comment. All the employess who have been cut off in
my area are new hires who have just marked up and havent worked very
long. Now that they dont pay for the schooling, they dont have as much
to loose as others who forked out close to 6 grand to go.
Alot easier to say IM OUTA HERE!

NOMO,
You are right. I have already met tm trainees who never ran an engine
or pounded the rocks. Straight out of choo U. That is EXACTLY the way
they want it. When I worked at the prision they took us out in the
fields and bombed us with riot control and gased us with isper so that
we would be completely aware of the reactions that we could expect from
the inmates if it came time for us to use such equipment. They wanted to
stop doing this because management thought that it might cause us to
start feeling alittle sympathy for the inmates, but it never got passed
because if other officers got caught in the middle they needed to know
what they were in for and how to react.

Seems that we have the same procedure going on here except they are
keeping the new ones away from the job. No exposure to our conditions,
no sympathy. I think the fra should step in and make it a law that no
tm or rf can take a job until he/she has pounded the rocks for at least
5 years and ran an engine for at least 2 years with erad(big brother)
watching. THEN AND ONLY THEN would they have the right to judge my
actions while on the job.

Name: goober
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 14 December 2008

To SUZY,
I have no idea how long you have been on the RR, but think you have
been there long enough to be trusted with a locomotive. After all of
those years you feel that 90% of those layed off are as you state
PUPS.

It starts from the bottom of the roster, and can go a long way up the
roster. you might see 2 years or less as a PUP or it might be a lot
more. I have seen the time when we had Fireman come back to the RR
after 18years on the street. I worked with them, they were the last
hired on steam, and steam went away, they worked full time jobs in
plants, or free lanced doing everything. When they returned it was to
the right seat, no training and they were awful for years.
scared to death, and rightly so.

I came to the RR 5 years after this happened, and they were still
running really SLOWWWWWWWWWWWWW. They had no one to show them, tell
them, or help them. Pretty sad. I think it might just be a little
better now.

GOOFY

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 14 December 2008

Hey SK:

Where you been...oh yeah I remember. Did you ever get that order
straight:)!

CSX routinely shoots themselves in the foot...however it's the unions
responsibility, under the CBA to see there is adequate available
manpower to meet the carriers needs allowing for normal layoffs such as
vacations and illness. The UTU is just as, if not more guilty, than
CSX.

The UTU doesn't mind collecting the dues these members pay and if both
the UTU and BLEt did a better job representing their perspective
memberships in discipline proceedings, CSX wouldn't need to hire as
many people.

Let me comment about furloughs...they happen and it's unfortunate.
What amazes me though is the advice given about not taking calls.
First, working off the furlough board, in my opinion, is as good as it
gets. The phone rings and you decide whether or not you want to
work...it's your choice, not the carriers. Is it cold, rainy or
snowing; 1st, 2nd or 3rd trick? Is there a family gathering or are the
boys meeting for a beer? Your choice. Should you decide to be
aggressive and work every time CSX calls you will make more money than
you ever thought you could, even at 80%.

Frankly, the old-head switchmen rather you not take the call, it's
them that get the overtime and double overs; and if you think about it,
they are the same people giving the advise...the very same people that
will benefit from the lack of manpower; the same people who get the
safety days and keep the LC in power.

In New Orleans and probably the rest of the L&N, there was a Reserve
Board, although it hasn't been used in years. The Reserved Board was
for the most senior men who would mark up on it when it was opened and
draw a hefty percentage, I don't remember how much, of their wage to
protect the jobs. It allowed the younger men to work...but that was
before the guaranteed Extra Board.

I will also address a most serious point. Recently a trainmaster in
Birmingham, was assaulted. By whom and why is unimportant. I believe
behavior like this will continue and get worse as long as the current
discipline policies stay in place and CSX continues to hire morons with
no RR experience as front line managers. 

One of the side effects of these policies, which I believe is intended,
is the animosity created between the employees by CSX and conveniently
overlooked by the unions. It amazes me how stories change
between the incident and the investigation. I have recently had several
people that they have scores to settle with their Brothers before they
leave CSX. The scores are the result of changing stories.

It's one thing to disagree with a fellow employee it's another to let
CSX manipulate and threaten you into changing your story.

The employees better realize what is happening before there are dire 
consequences!

Happy Holidays and gig'em!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for 1-10 years
Posted: 14 December 2008

Hey Dong Bagley (cracks me up):

CSX has been hiring track guys all over the system.  How much travel
time do the SPT guys have?  Do they work 4 10s with overtime, or 8 on
and 7 off?  Do local section gangs work with system gangs?

Name: suzannah
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for N/A
Posted: 14 December 2008

NOMO<


You are right. They have been doing that for years.  For some reason
they havent figured out that all they are doing is shooting themselves
in the foot. Close to 90% of those cut off are young pups. After they
get a taste of being booted at the beginning of their careers it puts a
bad taste in their mouths. Then when they have to work every weekend and
listen to their phones ring all day and all hours of the night and they
have no social lives and they have their valid claims denied and have
to fight for whats rightfully theirs they say the hell with this. We
are young and can find another job. We dont need this. I know!  I have
heard it a million times.  The men/women who stick it out and have made
it to 100% are more likey to stay. 
I cant understand for the life of me why csx corps. would be so
STUPID!!!  The only thing I can think of that would benefit the company
by doing this is a creation of turn over so they can keep their training
school open. There you go!  Keep the field full of young unexperienced
workers!  Better watch your backs old heads!

Name: dong bagley
E-mail: undertonyingramsdesk@csx.com
Employed as: M of W, for 1-10 years
Posted: 14 December 2008

Job seeker,
Layoffs dont happen like they use to. The railroad has worn out and
broke down all of the older guys on the railroad. Somebody has to
repair the track because of the train traffic.

Name: dong bagley
E-mail: undermikewardsdesk@csx.com
Employed as: M of W, for 1-10 years
Posted: 14 December 2008

Job seeker. 
Being treated depends on who you work with and the type of road master
you have. Can be just 8 hour days and can be 26 hour days such as a
derailment. Some days you sit in the truck and wait for track time on
the mains and others you work hard. No time studies, no assembly line,
just keep a steady pace. Work safe, job brief, and dont get hurt.

Name: job seeker
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 13 December 2008

hey guys. I recently applied for a track worker position and I was
wondering if you guys have any info about that position. Such as lay
offs, working conditions,work hours, how they are treated,anything
would be helpful.

Name: Brake Stick
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 12 December 2008

Remember everyone it's Race to Zero------Zero jobs that is.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: APE, for 10-20 years
Posted: 12 December 2008

I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW JUST HOW MANY MORE JOBS ARE GONNA GET CUT AT
WILMINGTON NC.WE JUST LEARNED THAT AFTER THE FIRST OF THE YEAR THAT THE
POWERS THAT BE ARE GONNA MAKE THE LADDER JOBS ONE MAN CREWS.WELL HOW
SAFE CAN THAT BE ? IF YOU START SWITCHING UP THE LADDER AND YOU ARE AT
NUMBER 1 SWITCH AND THE ENGINE IS AT #26 WHO,S TO SAY THAT ONE OF THESE
CUT OFF GUYS WOULDN,T GO OUT AND JUST HAPPENED TO THROW ONE OF THOSE
SWITCHES BEHIND THE ENGINE.. JUST A THOUGHT, BUT KEEP ON SCREWING WITH
THE MEN AND I'LL GUARANTEE SOMETHING WILL HAPPEN,JUST HOPE I'M NOT
THERE TO SEE IT

Name: goober
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 12 December 2008

Goober number 2 has invaded the space. last Goober posting was not me.

GOOFY

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 12 December 2008

Under a new opporations plan to take affect in the 1st half of the year,
One Plan is going to be phased out.  In its place will be the new
designed around the ever expanding roll from the US governments TARP
bailout plan to boost the US economy.  This plan will consist of
wasting capital in order to shrink the bottom line of the books in any
way that the board can, so in turn, they can go to DC with there hat in
there hand for a bail out check to put in the board of directors
pockets.  This  new plan is code named "suck the government tit".  Do
you part as a good CSX employee and do as little as you can do and injoy
the pay checks while they come......

That is all..........

Name: Green Manalishi
E-mail: 
Employed as: Employed in other capacity, for 10-20 years
Posted: 11 December 2008

CSX has recently announced its new slogan for the upcoming year:

"SAVING MONEY BY SACRIFICING QUALITY"

While this has always been past practice at CSX, it becomes official
commencing with the first quarter 2009.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 09 December 2008

Hey From the Top:

No duh!...This has been going on for the last three or four years!

Name: from the top
E-mail: 
Employed as: Corporate office, for 20-30 years
Posted: 09 December 2008

HEADS UP!!!!


For those of you who are working in areas were employees are
furloughed, WATCH YOUR BACKS!

Orders have been sent down to supervisors to get out there and start
head hunting older employees for any observation failures that they can
get so they can start weeding these employees out. They have determined
that it is cheaper to bring back the new hired employees on the street
who are not at 100% pay than to pay older employees who are. SO WATCH
YOUR BACKS.


Also, seems Tom Wolfe and Tom Cook have been stirring it up in the
florence division.  Don,t have all the details yet but so far it doesnt
sound very ethical. 


If you havent noticed Engineers and conductors are getting harsher
discipline for minor offenses now. An offense that would have resulted
in a counseling is now moved up to days over head and some have even
resulted in employees getting 30 days off. This change in the idpap
policy has nothing to do with trying to enforce safety. 
IT IS A WEEDING TACTIC!  WATCH YOUR BACKS!

Name: 
E-mail: FITZGERALD GA
Employed as: Conductor, for 30+ years
Posted: 08 December 2008

THE U T U SUCKS ALMOST AS BAD AS THE C S X STAY IN THEIR SAFETY PROGRAM
EAT A FREE STEAK ONCE IN A WHILE ALL THE TIME THE R.R. IS HIDING IN THE
BUSHES TRYING TO RUN YOU OFF FOR SOME MINOR RULE VIOLATION.TOMORROW YOU
MAY BE THE ONE ON THE OFF BOARD SO GET THAT FREE MEAL EVERYONE SHOULD
BE HAPPY FOR TWO OR THREE PEOPLE IS GETTING PAID $280.00 A DAY TO TELL
YOU HAVE A SAFE DAY.BY THE WAY ONLY THE WORKING EMPLOYEES GET TO EAT
NOT THE ONES RUN OFF OR ANY RETIREES WHO PUT IN 40 YEARS OF SERVICE OR
MORE.NOT EVEN THE P T I DRIVERS THAT TRANSPORT US IS EVEN ALLOWED TO
GET FREE DRINKING WATER ANY MORE THEY HAD BETTER BRING THEIR OWN HOT
DOG.HAVE A HAPPY HOLLIDAY EVERYONE.

Name: Goober
E-mail: csx sucks
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for 20-30 years
Posted: 04 December 2008

CSX does it again in Today's Utica Observer Dispatch, Utica,
NY...Probably railroad police have already accessed blame on dead
person. Just like dead Los Angeles engineer that was text messaging 22
seconds before incident.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 03 December 2008

Kurtis and any others, 

Appreciate any comments on my post about a dad getting nailed at a
crossing. I actually tried to have it removed as I realized that dumb
folks getting slammed at crossings is a sore subject. From what I
understand it can rarely be the trainman's fault. They just get to
feel horrible because of nothing they did. 

However in my line of work we have something called idiot proofing. You
isolate situations away from the potential for human error as much as
possible. Make a system a closed loop with no room for dumb people to
hurt themselves. Of course they will find a way because people are
idiots. 

If you check this link and scroll down you will see the crossing. No
visibility. No flashing lights. Nothing to slow down a stupid move. 

 http://www.altamontenterprise.com/Weekly%20Pages/Feature_Story.html

Reading here is like reading one of the great American novels. Maybe I
can pull an Upton Sinclair who wrote about the meat packing industry
and changed things. It stinks what you all go through.  

BTW Our local newspaper is going to write about CSX. I have been
sending them info. Will keep you posted.

Name: kurtis
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 03 December 2008

Listen, crossing would't need gates if people had brains. END OF STORY 
    two big flashing red lights and a blairing horn isn't enough?????  
and besides everyone should be yielding at crossing anyways so I DO NOT
FEEL BAD AT ALL FOR ANYONE THAT GETS NAILED AT CROSSINGS!!!    LOOK,
LISTEN, LIVE.........but csx does suck, they are a backwards corp. but
isn't every class 1???? it's sad to see where railroading went to,
massive mergers and young gun ceo's that have no clue how to market or
run a railroad.

Name: C&O JOE
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 02 December 2008

Anyone on here know a friend of mine named Tuball Cain?

Name: concerned about trains
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 02 December 2008

Hello train people, 

Glad to find this website. Although not an employee, my twin brother
worked in the Selkirk, NY yards just before he went in the Navy. I tell
this to let you know I have lots of empathy and I think all of you are
incredibly brave. 

Last week two CSX trains demolished a Land Rover carrying a dad and two
daughters. They walked away with bruises. The train crossing had no gate
and extremely poor visibility. I can tell from the comments gate
crossing problems are too common. I am writing because for many years
people have been trying to get CSX to do something about the situation
there. 

Another issue at the same location is a landowner with a parcel
directly next to the track and a stream  wants to soil mine to create
four septic systems. I think this is crazy and should not be allowed,
but our town is lame and may let him do it. I wrote to CSX in Florida
about this and included a map. CSX wrote back that excavating directly
next to the rails had nothing to do with CSX! 

CSX operates all over our town, we have many crossings. I hear the
music of the whistles and admire the work you do. But what I have been
reading about CSX in the news and here is creating lots of anxiety.  

Your thoughts and advice appreciated. Hope it was ok to post without an
email address.  Godspeed to you all.

Name: C&O JOE
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 02 December 2008

I for one wasn't an advocate for the safety bill. There were some
favorable points, but overall it's gonna be bad. The hours of service
stuff is gonna get in our pocket and you know good and well what's
gonna follow the PTC. Conductor certification is pointless. Nothing
more then another bullshit class I've gotta sit through that dosn't
teach you shit, it's just a review of what you already know and I plan
to contact the general committe to suggest that on our next contract we
get the same $15 a day that engineers get for their card. As far as the
self contained breathing apparatus goes, you know good and well they
arnt gonna put them on every engine, meaning you'll probably have to
check them out as needed from a Trainmaster and your job will depend on
their safe keeping, yet another thing to be fired for. There's been
talk about it limiting crews to 12 hours. I don't totally get this
part. We're restricted to 12 hours of train responsability now, surely
they can't expect to limit us to 12 hours of total time on duty? If so,
that part will be by far the most difficult for the railroads to enact.
I'm all for quality of life. I have a 3 year old little girl, a
newborn son, and a very attractive young wife I love being home with,
but I want to provide for them as best I can and if that means
outlawing 14 trains a half, I like having that option. They ought to
make urinal biscuts with pictures of that metro link engineer and Ricky
Gates on them so we can piss on them everyday.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 02 December 2008

Hey Joe:

That's a load of mumbo jumbo if ever I saw any. It's amazing how
bureaucrats can take a relatively simple issue and make it complex.

Even though it's the carriers responsibility...guess who'll take the
heat. Just another coffin nail!

Name: C&O JOE
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 01 December 2008

For those of you wondering about the practical implications of the
safety bill there is a pretty good article on the BLE site in regards
to the hours of service stuff.  Go to ble.org and click on the picture
of the pocket watch at the top of the page that says hours of service
Q&A

Name: goober
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 01 December 2008

To T 10-30
You should have an 8 hour window, nothing wrong with that. You might
just get it if you want it. However can ya live with it if it was
there? you will get a lot of sleep, a lot of home/family time, and many
slim pay check's. Looks counter productive to me. The CSX will call
folks, that want to work around you 3 times before you wake up.
How you ask??? oh native man it is called an xtra board to support your
board.

GOOFY

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: APE, for N/A
Posted: 24 November 2008

$1000-$1200 per car is a good number for revenue.

Worth means nothing.  The revenue for hauling a car is what CSX gets.

First 5 loads usually pay for train from depart to arrival.  Empties
pay nothing until they get to a customer.

A coal train may be worth $1.5 million, but it's probably $70-$100k
for CSX.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: CSX Customer, for N/A
Posted: 23 November 2008

WELL Ipull containers out of the Chambersburg ramp and these chasis are
in bad shape but dont you dare ask Gary the so called mechanic to fix
it or he will tell you (you need to look at the whole pitchure there
are more people than just you pulling that chasis and nobody else is
complaining) And not only are the chasis in bad shape so are there
containers.

Name: goober
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 21 November 2008

There are many RR that swap trains and return home. Really nice concept
that works most of the time. Saves motels, and a lot of other stuff. RR
have had for years-- terminals that only go over the division. Smart RR
have started to set it up on both ends. It works.

As for the first 5 cars paying the freight for all of the cost of the
Crew's may be correct, However that is only a small slice of the price
cost PIE. Operating Employees are in the minority, not a lot of them.
Takes many more folks to just keep the locomotives running, than it
does to ride them.

GOOFY

Name: T
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 21 November 2008

Yeah I don't see how they will have you off duty in 12 hours every
time, especially in Chicago where you take trains all over town. I also
don't think that more rest days will help either. None of that matters
if you don't know when you're going to work. I can sit first out 5
minutes or 24 hours. We need an 8 hour call. Reduced starts is gonna
make all those who live out here mad, but they're trying to squeeze
blood from a turnip anyway. I know some who NEED to be out on their
rest every day to pay their bills.

Name: tonnage first
E-mail: 
Employed as: APE, for 1-10 years
Posted: 20 November 2008

2008 Rail Safety Bill- What are the implications of this? Less starts,
more employees, reduced wages? Rest vs. work? Will someone more
knowledgeable let us know what is in store? How will they ever limit
total time to 12 hours, I can't tell you how many times I have been
over 12.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 20 November 2008

The first 5 carloads of coal pays for all the crews needed to move the
train from the mine to where ever it is being unloaded.. all the fuel
used to move it.. ware and tear on the track and equipment.. the rest
is PURE PROFIT!!! so yes.. it is true.. 

that is all..........

Name: fedup
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 10-20 years
Posted: 18 November 2008

I over heard a conversation between 2 officials last week about the
revenue made from 1 loaded coal train, a 100 car train carrying around
14,000 tons is worth 1.5 million, wow, and these cheap bastards have
the nerve to rob us. the ones who are expected to load and move and do
paper work on this cash cow, any body that thinks this company feels
for you needs medicated, as for me, Ill medicate them(csx management)
as much as I can, mainly with loaded suppositories.

Name: Former NO&M Engineer
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 18 November 2008

To answer your question, no I'm still in the same industry just with a
MUCH better corporation in my opinion. Don't get me wrong it's still
railroading and I'm still subject to working on call and
etc...However, at my particular location 90% of the time from what
I've been told we come back home after being on duty as opposed to a
hotel somewhere. It's not like this all over the system but a few
places here and there with-in the system. Trust me the grass is
sometimes actually greener on the other side......

Name: 
E-mail: fitzgerald ga
Employed as: Conductor, for 30+ years
Posted: 18 November 2008

C S X IS HAVING A COOK OUT tUESDAY FOR THEIR WORKING EMPLOYEES PART OF
THEIR SAFETY PROGRAM. WELL TODAY ABOUT SIX PEOPLE GOT FIRED ACCT.OF
RULES VIOLATIONS. c s x thinks everyone is happy so be sure to get you
a free meal for tomorrow you may be the one that is gone.if all the
emmployees felt like i do they would only be the three or four safety
employees to eat and the only reason they are there is the r.r. pays
them $280.00 a day just to tell eveyone to have a safe day what a big
joke. until all of the employees stick together and let the  C S X
safety program go this r.r. will continue to hide in the bushes instead
of helping the working men and women get trains over the road. good old
U T U thanks for the meal kiss the company"s ass again.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for Less than 1 year
Posted: 18 November 2008

Former NO&M Engineer:

If you don't mind us asking, did you go to another railroad or change
industries altogether??

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 18 November 2008

Is that you Peter Boy?

Name: Former NO&M Engineer
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 18 November 2008

I've always heard about this site but ironic as it may appear this is
actually my first time really reading alot of the posts here.
Nevertheless, I agree with a vast majority of what has been expressed
here regarding CSX. Some things mentioned here are wayyyy over the top
in delivery, but hilarious nevertheless. Well having said all of that I
FINALLY made the decision to resign from this company recently, and my
only regret thusfar is not submitting my resignation form 8 to 9 years
ago. If you work for this company then you already are fully aware of
the deplorable conditions/policies that you're subject to adhere to
from CSX, so I will not engage in any "last or final insults" or
anything of that nature....however I will say that there are "greener
pastures" else where and that you should begin to explore any
available options as ticket away from this place if you are truly
unhappy as I often was while at CSX.

Anyway I wish you all the best and good luck to all of you. If any NO&M
subdivision guys are reading this I enjoyed working with all of you and
hope that conditions improve for yall. Peace!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 15 November 2008

waw waw waw waw your feelings hurt, suck it up. loco 30 it is not
personal it's just the rr. waw waw waw

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 30+ years
Posted: 15 November 2008

No one said anything about safety rules except you 1-10 engineer.
I said safety threads you big dummy. Your more than likely one of the
idiots that post the same thread under every section. We already knew
Goober is a moron, now we know you are too.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 15 November 2008

goober you are right.  WTF is loco 30 +looking for safety rules here
for, if he doesn't know by now i guess he will never know. OR MIGHT BE
HAVING SOME HEADACHES.

Name: goober
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 14 November 2008

loco 30 are you kidding, You came here because you do not know the
safety rules, or need a little help?
HUMMM
GOOFY

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 30+ years
Posted: 13 November 2008

I came on here to read safety threads. Where are they? All I ee are
articles that should be under other sections.

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 13 November 2008

It's shit like that which caused the problem in the mortgage, banking,
investment segment and will soon effect manufacturing beyond
any one's wildest expectations.

Smoke and mirrors!!!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for Less than 1 year
Posted: 13 November 2008

Loco: 10-20 years

You hit the nail on the head.  Then the crew gets the train moving in
the yard, key word is "moving", not departing, but just "moving" so
then the ODTD is okay as well.  It's amazing that CSX makes money in
spite of itself.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 1-10 years
Posted: 12 November 2008

what managers are you talking about, you have got to see the picture
with the pink bunny, then you will know. it is fuuuuunnnnnnyyyyy. all
you need is a first name and a face i guess.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 10-20 years
Posted: 12 November 2008

thats easy engineer 1-10...
so the terminal dwell numbers look better..once the train is
called..the cars come off the terminal dwell clock.. its a way to cook
the books to make the terminal seem more "fluid" and efficient so in
return the managers bosses bonus is bigger... 

that is all...........

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 12 November 2008

How come Csx calls trains for say 1800 and does not have you out of the
yard til say 2145? hmmmmmmm Mr Ingram where do you find your Managers
at?

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 12 November 2008

The 5 minute management course 

      

  Lesson 1: 


A man is getting into the shower just as his wife is finishing up her
shower, when the doorbell rings. 

 
The wife quickly wraps herself in a towel and runs downstairs. 

 
When she opens the door, there stands Bob, the next-door neighbor. 

Before she says a word, Bob says, 'I'll give you $800 to drop that
towel.' 

 
After thinking for a moment, the woman drops her towel and stands naked
in front of Bob, after a few seconds, Bob hands her $800 and leaves. 

 The woman wraps back up in the towel and goes back upstairs. 

When she gets to the bathroom, her husband asks, 'Who was that?' 

'It was Bob the next door neighbor,' she replies. 

'Great,' the husband says, 'did he say anything about the $800 he
owes me?' 

 
Moral of the story:  



If you share critical information pertaining to credit and risk with
your shareholders in time, you may be in a position to prevent
avoidable exposure. 

 

 
Lesson 2: 

 
A priest offered a Nun a lift. 

 
She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. 

The priest nearly had an accident. 

 After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg. 

The nun said, 'Father, remember Psalm 129?' 

 
The priest removed his hand. But, changing gears, he let his hand slide
up her leg again. 

The nun once again said, 'Father, remember Psalm 129?' 

The priest apologized 'Sorry sister but the flesh is weak.' 
arriving at the convent, the nun sighed heavily and went on her way. 

On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129.
It said, 'Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory.' 


Moral of the story: 

If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great
opportunity. 

 

 

 

Lesson 3: 

A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to
lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. 
 
They rub it and a Genie comes out. 

The Genie says, 'I'll give each of you just one wish.' 

'Me first! Me first!' says the admin clerk. 'I want to be in the
Bahamas , driving a speedboat, without a care in the world.' 

Puff! She's gone. 

'Me next! Me next!' says the sales rep. 'I want to be in Hawaii ,
relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of
Pina Coladas and the love of my life.' 

Puff! He's gone. 

'OK, you're up,' the Genie says to the manager. 

The manager says, 'I want those two back in the office after lunch.


Moral of the story: 

Always let your boss have the first say. 

 

Lesson 4 


An eagle was sitting on a tree resting, doing nothing. 

A small rabbit saw the eagle and asked him, 'Can I also sit like you
and do nothing?' 

The eagle answered: 'Sure, why not.' 

So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the eagle and rested. All of a
sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it. 

Moral of the story:  

To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very, very high
up. 

 

Lesson 5 
 

A turkey was chatting with a bull. 
 

'I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree' sighed the
turkey, 'but I haven't got the energy.' 

'Well, why don't you nibble on some of my droppings?' replied the
bull. They're packed with nutrients.' 

The turkey pecked at a lump of dung, and found it actually gave him
enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. 
 

The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second
branch.
 

Finally after a fourth night, the turkey was proudly perched at the top
of the tree.

He was promptly spotted by a farmer, who shot him out of the tree. 


Moral of the story:  

Bull Crap might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.. 

 



Lesson 6 


A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold the bird
froze and fell to the ground into a large field. 
 

While he was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on him. 

As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, he began to
realize how warm he was. 

 The dung was actually thawing him out! 

 
He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. 

A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate. 

 
Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow
dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him. 


Morals of the story: 

(1) Not everyone who craps on you is your enemy. 


(2) Not everyone who gets you out of crap is your friend.


(3) And when you're in deep crap, it's best to keep your mouth shut!






THUS ENDS THE FIVE MINUTE MANAGEMENT COURSE

Name: CSX BLOW
E-mail: 
Employed as: Locomotive Engineer, for 1-10 years
Posted: 07 November 2008

Dang man you didnt have to post that on every thread about Ward dumping
his stock.

He doesnt want to loss his ass just like everyone else. But you know it
doesnt say much for this company when the CEO is trying not to take a
hit. If he treated his employees alittle better maybe we would be more
productive and have less injuries.

Name: screwed over
E-mail: 
Employed as: Friend or family of employee, for Less than 1 year
Posted: 07 November 2008

Hey APE:

Mikey must think Obama will be digging into his pocket.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: APE, for 20-30 years
Posted: 07 November 2008

It looks like Mikey Ward has dumped his CSX stock on November 5, 2008.
Anyone know the reason why?  We are talking major bucks. CSX has been
extremely good to Mikey. Go to CSX on the finance page. Pull up insider
transactions. Mikey will be having a great Christmas!!  How will yours
be?

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 06 November 2008

This is a sad example how dangerous railroading can be. And this was at
no fault of the railroad or the train crew.



        2 killed after freight train hits a propane truck 

By Kasey Fowler, Staff Writer

MEDFORD — Two people were killed and another critically injured Friday
morning when a freight train hit a propane tanker truck south of here,
triggering a massive explosion.

The injured truck driver, Dennis Wayne Etherton, 52, of Tahlequah, was
airlifted to Via Christi Regional Medical Center-St. Francis Hospital
in Wichita, Kan., with third-degree burns over at least 50 percent of
his body, according to Oklahoma Highway Patrol. He was listed in
critical condition.

The two men who died were crew members on the Union Pacific train. They
were conductor Larry Benny Williams, of Oklahoma City, and engineer
Richard D. Pardarvis, of Anadarko. No ages were available.

“The explosion was massive,” said Mike Honigsberg, director of Enid and
Garfield County Emergency Manage-ment. “It blew the tank a quarter to a
half a mile.”

The accident happened at 9:20 a.m. on the tracks on U.S. 81 about three
miles south of Medford, according to Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lt. George
Brown.

Etherton had just filled his tanker at a ConocoPhillips LP underground
storage site south of Medford before the accident, Conoco Phillips
spokeswoman Shanley Wells said.

“He had just filled up at our facility and left,” she said.

Union Pacific spokeswoman Raquel Espinoza-Williams said the truck was
on the train tracks when the locomotive slammed into it.

“It was just a direct hit,” Honigs-berg said. “The train crew saw it
coming and hit the emergency brake.”

Donna Kush, another Union Pacific spokeswoman, said the two-person crew
sounded the horn and began trying to stop the train 140 feet before
impact while going about 37 mph.

Honigsberg said the actions of the crew before they died may have
prevented a bigger disaster by preventing the train from becoming a
runaway. 

“In my opinion, that was a heroic effort because if they didn’t, there
was nothing to stop that train between here and Enid,” he said. “They
probably prevented another major catastrophe.”

Enid is about 35 miles south of Medford. 

U.S. 81 was blocked to northbound and southbound traffic from Medford
to Pond Creek following the accident, and electricity was knocked out
to much of Medford, although power was restored later Friday morning.
Power lines, though, still were down across the accident area Friday
afternoon.

The highway was reopened Friday afternoon.

Michael Hunter, a worker at Kretchmar Distributing, located about a
quarter of a mile from where the accident occurred, witnessed the
explosion.

“I saw a big fireball and felt the percussion off of it,” he said. “I
was out working, and I preceded to run for my life.”

“The explosion was significant enough for close residents to see and
hear it,” Brown said. “It blew the semi tanker apart. The cab was on
one side of the train and the tanker on the other.”

Etherton was ejected from the truck an unknown distance.

The 76-car train was southbound from Wichita, Kan., to Fort Worth,
Texas, with a load of flour, wheat, possible metals and some flammable
substan-ces, said Espinoza-Williams. She said none of the flammable
sustances leaked. Brown said some of the cars were hauling ethanol and
methanol.

Brown said no evacuation order was given, but OHP cordoned off the area
a mile around the accident.

The ConocoPhil-lips LP facility is approximately 100 yards from the
location of the collision and sustained minor damage, including broken
windows caused by debris from the accident, Wells said.

According to ConocoPhil-lips employees, the collision was audible from
the facility.

The driver of the truck was employed by another company that purchases
its propane from the ConocoPhillips facility, Wells said.

“I don’t think it was someone that we know,” Wells said. “Truckers go
all over the place to fill up.”

The facility has been there since the early 1960s and employs 14
people. The underground storage cavern stores propane and other
hydrocarbon-based products, Wells said.

Crews responding included: OHP, Medford Police Depart-ment, Grant
County Sheriff’s Office, Alfalfa County Sheriff’s Office, as well as
fire departments from Medford, Pond Creek, Lamont, Nash, Hawley,
Blackwell, Vance Air Force Base and Enid.

“Everybody followed protocol very well. I am very impressed. It is just
tragic we had fatalities,” said Honigs-berg.

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 10-20 years
Posted: 04 November 2008

I worked for the RF&P for many years including some after the merger. 
RF&P had many safety rules including a requirement to report injuries
particularly those that resulted from equipment defects.  However, when
you reported what they considered to be too many injuries they would
hold an investigation to punish you.  I remember once they tried to
blame the victim for an injury from throwing a sticky racor switch. 
They said there was nothing wrong with the switch.  However if there
was nothing wrong with the switch, why had the Track dept replaced it? 
Turns out they didn't even realized it had been replaced.  Another
instance, RF&P had ATC for years with to make an automatic brake
application on trains exceeding the speed limit of the signal on which
they are running.  However, after the merger, CSX worked to disable ATC
and cab controls so that you would run on signal indication only.  Then
in 1996, a commuter train running on CSX trains exceeds the speed of an
approch and runs through a stop and hits an Amtrak train.  Yes the
engineer forgot he was running on an approach, but in any system on
which lives depend, it is considered only prudent to provide both
technological and manual means to implement the process.  (one backing
up the other).   The NTSB was critical of the resignaling by CSX that
had removed the wayside signal immediately before the interlocking
signal and lack of ATC which had been removed by CSX.  11 people died
because of CSX's concern for profit.  Since the merger look at the
number of accidents that have taken place due to the lack of ATC.  It
is totally impossible to reconcile this demantlement with a concern for
safety.

Name: htl
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 02 November 2008

csx contactor.........bite me!!!!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: Conductor, for 20-30 years
Posted: 02 November 2008

whats the deal on this darric skeens tm?  comes out of russell and has
already charged 2 of our guys.  whats the deal on him?

Name: NoMo
E-mail: 
Employed as: Other, non-employee, for N/A
Posted: 02 November 2008

I think the contractor misses the point...working safely is a condition
of employment, not a reason to drag one's feet.

CSX management insists on 100% rules compliance, which takes time
and slows production. The employees have to be careful...if they're
not, it will cost them their job.

The chip on the shoulder results from supervision which kowtows to
management's every fiat, no matter how ridiculous it is. Perhaps if
supervision occasionally supported the men and set the management
straight, the chip would go away!!!

Name: 
E-mail: 
Employed as: CSX Contractor, for 20-30 years
Posted: 01 November 20