Working on freight train

I had a pacemaker put in early Dec. of 2014. Doctor released me back to work on Dec.29th. My release was with no restrictions as to employment. My Superintendent at Union Pacific and the Health & Wellness Dept., seem to disagree that I can go back to my job as a conductor. Superintendent (who has no medical training) says I can't return to conductor job. The Health & Wellness people say that Union Pacific has allowed employees back on trains in regions other than mine. My question is this, are there any Class I railroad conductors or engineers out there with PM, either working at their pre-PM job or were not allowed to return to those two occupations? Union Pacific employees or ex-employees would be exceptionally helpful.

5 Comments

Work.

by Rogue427 - 2015-01-14 03:01:42

I am a electrician. I had to fight for several months to get my job back. So far the only thinf I can't do is use a hammerdrill. (vibs). I told HR that I was getting a lawer and finally they started moving. Been back to work for six months and no problems.

Work Restrictions

by Claret - 2015-02-27 08:02:36

Hi,
I am a health and safety manager and have previously managed occupational health services.

In simple terms, you should not be stopped from carrying out any work task unless there is a genuine significant foreseeable risk to yourself or others that is brought about because of your medical condition or pacemaker, etc.

The types of equipment and activities that should be avoided will be listed with the information supplied with your pacemaker. It would be reasonable for your employer to ask you to undertake altered duties that do not involve any of the listed equipment or activities. It may also be possible that there are specific hazards associated with the nature of the work that you do that could lead to significant risk. These would need to be systematically assessed, with clear rationale for any conclusions. I would usually suggest that managers working with staff are best placed to make assessments but this is more specialised and I feel that Occupational Hygiene (called Industrial Hygiene in some countries) and/or Occupational Health input would also be needed.

Hope this helps, happy to provide further advice.

railroad work

by hack - 2015-07-05 07:07:57

I'm a railroad worker that's trying to get back on it just had a pacemaker put in I don't have to weld on my present job just a car inspector wondering if I'm going to have a hard time.I guess I'll get a lawyer also if I need to

Same situation

by Rusty11 - 2019-02-09 13:23:36

Just wondering if we have any updates on this topic  currently a conductor for a class 1 railroad. I know some of the medical requirements have changed. I am going to need a pacemaker in the future and possibly soon. Can they fire me for getting one? Any update on what happened to the other conductor would be appreciated. Thanks

Hello all

by Mosco79 - 2019-06-05 20:51:41

I have a pacemaker installed and work at a class 1 railroad. Has anyone been able to return to work yet? 

You know you're wired when...

The dog’s invisible fence prevents you from leaving the backyard.

Member Quotes

It made a HUGE difference in my life. Once I got it, I was finally able to run, and ride my bike long distances.