June 2024 Update
FMLA - Brian Bailey has written a post about NS handling employees for FMLA abuse. Read it here
2025 National Agreement - The National Agreement is the working agreement between all the Class 1 Railroads and most of the Union crafts. It covers general wage increases, health and welfare benefits, and some quality of life matters for the Union Members across the Nation. Please follow this link to submit your suggestions for the 2025 National Agreement. Note: This agreement does not cover Norfolk Southern specific issues (e.g. - meals, detention time, scheduling, work rules, etc.)
Inward Facing Cameras - The Carrier has began the practice of reviewing the inward facing camera video logs for any incident (emergency brake application, PTC enforcement, etc.) and have contacted several Conductors about being on their cell phone. So far, the phones in question were proven to be the MTR device, but I want to bring this practice to everyone’s attention. Please ensure that you are following NS’ electronic device rules: OR-5.
Handbrakes - As I mentioned in the previous two monthly updates, NS is taking a firm stance on handbrakes. In the past week, two Conductors were charged with failure to properly release handbrakes. When building your train in the Forwarding Yards, please ensure that you are checking the head 6 cars for brakes, and at least 2 brakes behind the last released brake that was found. At outlying points, pick-up locations, and industries be sure to check each car as a part of your brake test/C-100. When releasing handbrakes, especially when operating the quick release, ensure that the brake is fully released and that 3 painted chain links are visible and the brake linkage isn’t bound on the end platform.
Off Day / Vacation Agreement - As I posted in last month’s update, the new rules regarding dropping to the bottom of the board / starting off time early are in effect, but I have had issues getting the Call Office to comply. Labor Relations instructed the Call Office to refuse any repositioning until the implementation of a program that will allow Conductors to reposition themselves. After escalating the issues to the General Chairman, I’m hopeful that there will no longer be any problems going forward, but if you elect to take one of the options afforded to you and the Call Office refuses, please inform a Local Chairman.
The program that allows you to enact these options without contacting the Call Office is tentatively scheduled for release by the end of the month.
Channel 2 - Concerns have been brought forward about excessive communication on channel 1. If you need to have a conversation with the PTC desk, MOC, IDS, Wayside, etc. over the radio, please tone them up on channel 2. If one of those desks call you, ask them to swap to channel 2 before having the conversation, to prevent walking on other crews trying to work.