Railroad Conductor Suffers Electric Shock Injury

This case involves a 50-year-old man who worked as a railroad conductor. The conductor had his hand on an iron handle while he was holding the door open to let a coworker enter the car. He used his other hand to hold a guardrail at the station, outside of the train car. He received a significant electric shock during the incident. It is alleged that the iron handle, was improperly grounded. This incident occurred at a station in Montana.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Describe your experience as it pertains to electrical grounding for railway cars and stations.

2. Have you ever served as an expert witness on a case similar to the situation described above?

3. Do you have specific experience with electric traction issues?

Expert Witness Response E-009849

I have served as a project manager for both rolling stock procurements ("railway cars") and as a project manager for new and rehabilitated passenger rail stations. In those roles, I was responsible for safety certification of all project elements, including the grounding requirements. Additionally, I was involved with electric traction construction. I have specific experience with the type of rail car in question. I have also reviewed similar accident/safety events internally.