NCJ Number
83534
Journal
Training Key Issue: 305 Dated: (1980) Pages: complete issue
Date Published
1980
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This training key focuses on freight train derailments, including preplanning, investigation, cleanup, first response, evaluating hazards (mechanical, electrical, and chemical), fire, and information sources to be used for decisionmaking at the scene.
Abstract
Most train accidents are derailments -- indicating that the wheels of one or more cars have left the track. Since a train derailment can be a major catastrophe, preplanning of duties and responsibilities of several agencies is required. Coordination among the local law enforcement agencies, emergency response teams such as fire departments and medical evacuation units, railroad police, and railroad officials is essential for the rescue, investigation, and cleanup operations. Railroad officials initiate the investigation of all derailments as soon as is practical. A determination can usually be made at the scene when criminal action is involved. When a criminal act is suspected, the law enforcement functions of protecting the scene, collecting and preserving physical evidence, and interviewing witnesses should take priority over the cleanup operation. The first officer at the scene is responsible for gathering and reporting basic information about the incident and must request the proper emergency personnel. In evaluating the accident scene, officers should use their senses to observe leaks, listen for shifting loads and pressure buildup, detect chemical odors, and to feel unsteady loads. Mechanical, electrical, and chemical hazards are explained, and the threat of fire is discussed. To make appropriate decisions at the accident scene, officers should consult the 'car movement waybills' and 'consist,' which are documents carried on the train that indicate the train's contents. A discussion guide is supplied.