ryanch wrote: ↑Fri Nov 22, 2019 1:24 pm
In fact, Metra had a pretty well known incident because of automated doors. Conductors didn't notice someone who had exited but whose musical instrument case got caught between doors. She was dragged, then fell (or let go?) and her leg was severed.
That was a really sad case, but it's worth reviewing the facts and seeing if there are any lessons to be learned here. This case involved a college-age woman in Chicago's suburbs.
1. The door closed on her violin case, not on her person.
2. The door closed enough that the door light showed clear, even if there was no throttle interlock.
3. She was not trapped in the violin case, she chose to hold on because it was very expensive.
4. She was then dragged 300+ feet.
As someone who lectures frequently on industrial safety, I can tell you the first thing we tell people is that "items can be replaced, people cannot". Holding on to a violin whilst being dragged by a train is crazy.
Another important point - we get lazy and rely on our lights and sensors. If the door was closed enough not to throw a doorlight, it was closed enough to release a throttle interlock. Nothing was going to save this woman short of her letting go of the violin or the slim chance a passenger saw this and pull the e-brakes. Nothing. No sensor or light or interlock.
This is why NYCTA requires motormen and conductors to point out certain important indicators on the route, to increase their situational awareness and not let them just rely on lights and sensors.
What the open doors on old commuter trains taught us was "always assume the door is dangerous and stay clear". That's a safe way to do it even today.
The new Acela: It's not Aveliable.