Transportation Equipment Electrician how-to
How to Work Safely Near a Third Rail
Third rails can kill.
Quick answer
Third rails can kill. In short: get; confirm; test, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Get track access approval.
Confirm power is off.
Test for voltage.
Apply grounds.
Stay clear of the rail.
Restore properly.
Safety reminders for transportation equipment electricians
- Follow lockout/tagout
- Treat rails as live
- Wear arc flash PPE
- Follow track safety rules
Key terms
Schematic · Traction motor · Third rail · Pantograph · Control circuit · Relay: see the full transportation equipment electrician glossary.