Lancaster worker death in NTSB Amtrak accident investigation

The NTSB Amtrak accident investigation continued earlier this week. Progressive Railroading reported on the preliminary report into the Feb. 23 collision in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. In that collision, an Amtrak roadway worker was fatally struck by an Amtrak snow-patrol train.

NTSB Amtrak accident investigation details

According to the NTSB preliminary report, the accident occurred near the High Steel Industries facility. The three-person Amtrak roadway maintenance work group had been assigned to that task. That task was to remove snow and ice from a switch after a winter storm.

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Meanwhile, the snow-patrol train originated in Philadelphia. It was being used to clear ice from the catenary wires. Also, it was on Amtrak’s Keystone Service route between Philadelphia and Harrisburg. In addition, the goal was to restore regular passenger service after the snowstorm. The train crew included an engineer in the lead locomotive. Separately, a conductor was in the passenger car.

Train approach warning and on-track safety

The roadway maintenance work group included a designated watchman. At the same time, the foreman was clearing snow from the switch. Meanwhile, a third employee was in a truck about 700 feet from the site.

Before the collision, the train departed Lancaster Station eastbound on main track No. 1. Also, the foreman was using a gas-powered leaf blower on the same track.

At the time, the work group was using train approach warning. That was its method of on-track safety. In addition, the engineer soon saw a person at the switch. That person was standing in the foul of the track. He was operating through the work area at that point. Also, he sounded the horn. Separately, he placed the train into emergency braking. The train was traveling at 87 mph when it struck the foreman.

The NTSB said all aspects of the collision remain under investigation. Meanwhile, it is determining the probable cause. In addition, it aims to issue safety recommendations intended to prevent similar events.

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