Defective doors on railroad boxcars hazard alert.

October 23, 1978

The central purpose of this "Defective Doors on Railroad Boxcars Hazard Alert" is to provide for equitable nationwide inspection programming adjustments regarding disclosure of unusually grave violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. It will also provide employers, employees, and public officials with available information concerning a recognized hazard that has caused and is likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees exposed to defective doors on railroad boxcars. The Act requires employers to furnish each employee a place of employment free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm.

It has been brought to OSHA's attention that a nationwide problem exists for employees working in and around railroad boxcars. In many instances boxcars delivered at loading and unloading docks contain defective doors which are not properly secured and can fall on or against employees while in the immediate area.

Employers engaged in businesses requiring the use of railroad boxcars for shipping or receiving materials, supplies, etc., are required by the Act to provide a place of employment free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Defective doors on railroad boxcars, that may fall on or against employees working in the immediate area, is a recognized hazard and shall be corrected immediately. Regardless of who or what caused the damage to the boxcar door, each employer is responsible for the safety and health of the employees.

[Corrected 10/22/2004]