William M. Knowles
Vancouver WA 98685

 

February 10 2001

 

 

Richard Etienne
Local Chairman,
BLE Div. 758

Rick, I would like to document this event with the local. It is about the condition of the out bound G DILINB1 05A on 02-09-2002 out of Pasco.

Rob Kangas and I were called on duty for the grain train GDILINB1 05A at 0800 the morning 02-09-2002. We got a ride out to the grain yard and were informed that we had to make a cut in the train for the carman working the track so he could hang the Fred.

Well the flags were up and I didn’t get to talk the carman before he left back to the car shack to get us a Fred. So while we were waiting for the return of the carman, Rob went back to make sure that handbrakes were applied to the rear of the train before we made the cut.

Rob found no hand brakes on the bottom end of the track and I found out that the MU cables were not connected between the second and third engines in the engine consist. The consist 203 cards were signed at 0830 at Pasco. About that time the carman Seaton returned and I told him about the brakes and made sure that he was in charge of the flag and no one was working the track but him. Rob and I then attempted to separate the train. It would not move, so I when back to inspect the head end near the power and found that the air hose were coupled but were not cut in. There was no air in the train and no hand brakes.

  1. The track was not tied down in the grain yard.
  2. When the power comes from the roundhouse, it is suppose to be ready to go. The simple fact that the 203 cards were signed by them is supposed to certify that the consist was tested, checked, and ready to go.
  3. Why couple the air hoses and not have the air cut in?

Things are getting busy out there Rick, a couple of mistakes like this could keep guys out of work for long time. Worse, it could potentially kill our fellow employees. Please remind the membership to take their time and double check the other guys work.

 

Yours truly,

William M. Knowles

Cc: Mark Ricci State Legislative Rep.
        Jay Schollmeyer
        Steve Anderson Terminal Supt. Vancouver