Train Operations Worker

A train assembly worker is a field personnel with physical and technical competence responsible for coupling, uncoupling, arranging, and preparing railcars for departure in railway transportation. The correct and safe formation of trains, regulation of car movements, and ensuring load balance are directly under the responsibility of the assembly worker.

Duties and Responsibilities

According to TCDD Transportation Inc.’s General Order No. 205, the main duties of a train assembly worker are as follows:

• Perform coupling, uncoupling, and reordering of railcars.
• Inspect railcar braking systems and ensure they are operational.
• Apply special precautions for railcars carrying hazardous materials.
• Assist the movement officer in preparing the train according to instructions.
• Safely carry out field operations such as climbing, switching tracks, and using hand brakes.
• Assist in unloading, loading, and cover inspection procedures.
• Verify the train assembly log, coupling chart, and transport documents.
• Comply with on-site communication and signaling rules.

The work of the assembly worker directly affects train operational safety. Therefore, all procedures are carried out in accordance with safety-focused protocols.

Training and Qualifications

For train assembly work, a minimum of high school graduation is generally required. However, completion of the following modular training programs provided by TCDD and MEGEP is mandatory:

• Assembly and maneuvering techniques.
• Braking systems and hand brake operation.
• Railway signaling and communication systems.
• Occupational health and safety regulations.
• Railcar identification and fault detection.

Candidates undergo theoretical and practical examinations at the end of training. Those who pass are awarded the Assembly Worker Certificate. In some cases, psychotechnical evaluation and medical examination are also required.

Work Environment and Physical Conditions

Train assembly workers operate primarily in open areas such as yards, stations, logistics centers, and switch zones. The job requires physical effort, concentration, and balance. Night shifts, weather conditions, high noise levels, moving vehicles, and trackside work demand special attention for occupational health and safety.

Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)—reflective vests, helmets, steel-toed boots, and gloves—is mandatory.

Applications and Regulations in Türkiye

Train assembly workers are classified as “safety-critical personnel” under the Regulation on Safety-Critical Railway Duties. TCDD Transportation Inc. conducts the training, examination, and certification process for personnel assigned to assembly services at its own centers.

The “Train Assembly Instruction” (TCDD Internal Directive) serves as a reference document containing technical details such as railcar positioning, separation of hazardous cargo cars, and required percentages of braked cars. The assembly worker’s role is to physically configure trains in accordance with these technical requirements.

Assessment from Occupational Health and Safety Perspective

Train assembly work is one of the high-risk outdoor occupations. It involves hazards such as walking on tracks, night work, and simultaneous operations with reversing locomotives. Therefore, specialized training is provided on:

• Maintaining safe maneuvering distances.
• Use of hand signals and whistles.
• Coordination with locomotive drivers.
• Developing reflexes to prevent falls and entrapment.