RCO Safety: Staying Compliant and Reducing Risk on Your Rail Site

Remote Control Operators (RCOs) are becoming increasingly common in rail yards and industrial track settings. While technology offers certain efficiencies, it also comes with unique safety and compliance challenges that cannot be ignored. At Axiom, we help rail operations mitigate risks and maintain full FRA compliance — while protecting workers and assets.

The Hidden Dangers of RCO Usage

1. Limited Visibility

 RCO operators often work from a position that does not provide a full field of view of the train and surrounding environment. Blind spots can lead to missed hazards — whether that’s a worker, a vehicle, or a piece of misplaced equipment. This limitation makes strategic site audits and safety checks essential.

2. Reduced Crew Size

 Many RCO operations rely on just one operator, removing the redundancy and oversight that a second crew member offers. Without a second set of eyes and ears, errors and hazards may go unnoticed until it’s too late.

3. Inadequate Training

Compared to traditionally trained locomotive engineers, RCO operators may receive shorter or less comprehensive training. This knowledge gap can be dangerous when unexpected track conditions, mechanical failures, or operational hazards occur.

4. Technological Limitations

 While wireless communication is the backbone of RCO technology, it is not immune to interference, signal loss, or failure. A single disruption can cause serious operational risks — including derailments, collisions, and employee injury.

How To Stay Safe:

• Conduct Regular FRA-Standard Audits: Proactively find and address track and equipment issues before they cause incidents.

• Invest in Enhanced RCO Training: Go beyond minimum requirements — ensure operators understand emergency protocols and hazard recognition.

• Establish Redundant Safety Procedures: Create backup systems for communication, crew coordination, and visual oversight.

• Leverage Technology Wisely: Pair RCO systems with advanced rail inspection tools to detect hazards early.

  
  

Axiom specializes in FRA-compliant inspections and training audits that help ensure your RCO operations remain both efficient and safe.