Railroaders Still Suffer Quality-of-Life Issues After New Contract

The federal government imposed a contract on railroad workers last year to avert the prospect of a crippling strike that would being the nation to its knees. However, there are few indications that the contract has resolved quality-of-life issues on the railroad, according to reports.

Associated Press noted recently how railroad workers continue to suffer from the quality-of-life issues that people in many other professions take for granted. The lack of sick pay and regularly scheduled weekends drove some railroad workers to veto contracts that included large pay raises and $5,000 bonuses. However, a strike was averted last year.

AP reported that while some of the major railroads say they are seeking to address quality-of-life issues, workers are skeptical about real improvements to their jobs.

“I hope that they’re serious about putting their employees first. But the track record is less than stellar,” longtime Union Pacific engineer Ross Grooters told AP.

Signs of progress include a Union Pacific pilot program in the Kansas City area that’s testing a new schedule for engineers that allows them to have four days off in a row after working 11 days straight. CSX has also made changes to its attendance policy to allow workers to take time off for medical appointments without being penalized.

Although we welcome these small steps, the dispute highlights the lack of rights railroad workers face. The long shifts worked by engineers and others put railroad workers under strain and produce an environment conducive to accidents and injuries.

The unions are involved in ongoing the quality of life talks. Negotiations started after Congress blocked 115,000 rail workers from striking at the end of last year, forcing them to accept a five-year deal that included 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses but failed to address quality of life concerns.

AP noted a few jobs on the railroad benefit from regular schedules but many more do not. Railroad workers are often forced to be on call round the clock. Unpredictable schedules make it hard for workers to take time off and increase the stresses they experience on the job.

Tyler Ray, another experienced engineer involved in the pilot project, said not being able to know when he’ll have time off has taken a toll on his own personal life and that of other railroaders. Many other railroaders are under stress on a daily basis due to their long hours and irregular schedule.

Our experienced railroad accident lawyers see the effects of stress on the people who work for the railroads. Unfortunately, these conditions can result in accidents and injuries. Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers represents clients who bring claims against the railroads through the Federal Employer’s Liability Act. Please call us for a free consultation.