Worker experiences electric shock while on train's rooftop - Worker perishes due to electrocution on the train's rooftop
In a recent incident, a 52-year-old railway worker experienced an electric shock while performing maintenance on a train in Munich, Germany. The worker, an Austrian electrician, was checking the functionality of an air conditioner on the roof of the train during a maintenance workshop.
Despite turning off the power, the electric shock occurred due to the catenary system (overhead power lines) retaining dangerous voltages or the presence of residual or stray currents. These systems are typically energized at high voltages and can remain hazardous due to capacitance and electromagnetic effects, or because the power was not fully isolated on that section of the line.
The police have ruled out any external involvement in the incident and could not exclude a technical malfunction as a possible cause. The worker was taken to a hospital following the incident and fortunately, he suffered only minor injuries, including burns on his hand.
Such incidents underscore the importance of strict safety protocols in railway maintenance and operations. Ensuring physically grounded and verified de-energization of overhead lines before crews work on train roofs is crucial to prevent such accidents.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential hazards that railway workers face daily. It is essential to adhere to standard safety procedures, such as ensuring both switching off and grounding of the overhead lines, to protect workers and ensure the safety of train operations.
[1] For more information on electrical safety in railway environments, please refer to relevant safety guidelines and procedures.
[1] The community policy on employment in the railway sector should prioritize regular training and awareness programs about the risks of electrical shock and safe maintenance practices on train roofs, given the recent incident.[2] In light of the medical-conditions that can arise from electrical shocks, it's important for the health-and-wellness of railway workers to have access to comprehensive medical support and resources.[3] To prevent similar general-news-worthy accidents, strict adherence to safety protocols is necessary, especially in circumstances involving the de-energization and isolation of overhead lines in railway work.
