Switching Operations Fatalities Analysis

SOFA

In February 1998, a Switching Operations Fatalities Analysis (SOFA) working group, with representatives from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), labor and management was formed at the request of the FRA to review employee fatalities and to develop recommendations for reducing fatalities in switching operations.

The SMART Transportation Division is represented in the SOFA group by National Legislative Director Greg Hynes (1081), Minnesota State Legislative Director Phil Qualy (650) and Kansas State Legislative Director Ty Dragoo (1503).

In an effort to reduce injuries and fatalities, the group recommends that employees practice the following five life-savers:

1. Secure all equipment before action is taken.
2. Protect employees against moving equipment.
3. Discuss safety at the beginning of a job or when work changes.
4. Communicate before action is taken.
5. Mentor less experienced employees to perform service safely.

SOFA Documents:

• SOFA Lifesavers – Why Job Brief?
• SOFA Safety Alert – November 2020

(Note: SOFA updates are published quarterly.)