Re: Georgetown Loop, Now this:

"Dan, there is only so much work that one individual can do. If that person is overworked or fatigued, they are much more likely to overlook something that may make the difference between life and death. All nighters are not a good thing."

I agree. We are especially mindful of this with volunteers on the train. No more than 12 hours is allowed. And, it is sometimes up to the crew member to keep close track of his/her hours since we don't have management around at times. As Trainmaster I try to make sure no one works over 12 hours when I am around and when I schedule the crew assignments.

Speaking of FRA, we have a new inspector in the NW. Rumor has it he levied a fine on an employee at Mt. Rainier RR recently. As the story goes, he came in unannounced and found a mainline switch unlocked. Mt. Rainier rules require switches to be locked and lined for the main. He gave a warning. The next day he again showed up unannounced and found the same switch unlocked. My understanding is the employee (he may have been a volunteer) has to pay the fine, and the RR cannot reimburse him/her. Big brother is watching us.

dan