A locomotive remote-control (LRC) technology pilot
on Union Pacific took a step forward Jan 21,2002 when a job assignment was posted
in Des Moines, Iowa.
A recent announcement by the National Wage and Rules Panel, which is
made up of the United Transportation Union and the six major railroads
in the United States, paved the way for pilot projects involving the technology.
Remote control has been used successfully by Canadian National and Canadian
Pacific for more than a decade. It allows a locomotive to be controlled
by a computer installed in the cab through use of a radio transmitter operated
by crew members.
"The panel believes the successful implementation of remote technology
will be substantially facilitated by the insights and experience gained
through these pilot projects," said a joint statement by NCCC Chairman
Robert F. Allen and UTU International President Byron A. Boyd Jr.
"There are a number of issues to be worked out before either side
enters into a definitive agreement on remote control," Boyd said. "Working
out those issues first requires that we collect data relating to safety,
compensation, job protection, levels of training required, economic impact
and other relevant issues. One thing we all know is that new technology
cannot be ignored, and we are all better off understanding and controlling
that technology."
Canadian National, the continent's largest remote-control user, reports
that accident rates in yards where remote control is used are half that
of those without locomotive remote control. The technology
also provides for reduced-crew operations.
Two suppliers produce the remote-control systems: Cattron and Canac.
UP has purchased five LRCs from Cattron. Des Moines employees using LRC
will receive two weeks of training beginning Feb. 4.
