The train chief is the authorized individual responsible for the safe, orderly, and punctual operation of a train in railway transportation, acting as the supervisor of the train crew. They serve on passenger and freight trains and are responsible for ensuring operational safety, coordinating personnel, and supervising operational procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities

According to General Order No. 205 of TCDD Taşımacılık A.Ş., the main duties of a train chief are as follows:

• Obtaining and checking the necessary documents before the train’s departure
• Inspecting the train formation for compliance with regulations
• Ensuring the order and safety of the train during the journey
• Assigning and supervising the duties of the train crew
• Intervening in and reporting extraordinary situations that may occur during the journey

Additionally, the train chief is the supervisor of all personnel assigned to the train and ensures coordination in train operations.

Training and Certification Process

To become a train chief, it is necessary to undergo a specific training and certification process. According to the Training Catalogue of TCDD Taşımacılık A.Ş., train chief candidates must complete the following training programs:

• Train Formation Training
• Train Formation Internship Program
• High-Speed Train (HST) Traffic and ETCS Systems Training

Following this training, candidates take exams and, upon successful completion, are appointed as train chiefs.

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Working Conditions and Occupational Health

Train chiefs work in shifts and their assignments may range from urban commuter lines to international freight corridors. Long-term concentration, decision-making under stress, and readiness for emergency situations are critical traits for this profession.

According to the 2020 Annual Report of TCDD Taşımacılık A.Ş., train chiefs undergo regular health check-ups and are subject to psycho-technical evaluations. From an occupational health and safety perspective, factors such as ergonomic cab design, noise insulation, and vibration damping are also important.

Types of Train Chiefs

Train chiefs are classified based on the type of train they serve:

• Passenger Train Chief: Serves on passenger trains and ensures coordination of passenger services
• Freight Train Chief: Serves on freight trains and supervises freight transport processes
• Service Train Chief: Serves on work trains assigned for railway maintenance and operational services