Photo: Železničář/ČD
Train drivers’ unions in the Czech Republic and Slovakia are criticizing the authorities’ plans to install video cameras in locomotive cabs, considering the measure unnecessary and even counterproductive for railway safety.
In the Czech Republic, the Federation of Train Drivers (FSČR) has sent a letter to the director of the Railway Authority, arguing that the idea of cameras is just a “smokescreen” that hides the lack of real solutions to the problems in railway operations.
The real problems, say the drivers
According to Czech engineers, the authorities have been ignoring the problems reported by operational staff for years.
Among the main difficulties mentioned are: According to the engineers, these elements can lead to information overload for staff, which affects their attention to the line.
excessive complexity of operating regulations, which exceed 2,000 pages;
frequent rolling stock failures;
very short times for preparing trains before departure;
major differences in the operation of ETCS systems on different locomotives;
the increasing number of screens and digital systems in the cab.
The union argues that installing cameras will not reduce the number of railway incidents if the structural problems are not resolved.
Strong opposition in Slovakia too
A similar position has been expressed by train drivers in Slovakia, where over 85% of drivers from the two state operators – ZSSK and ZSSK Cargo Slovakia – have signed a petition against the introduction of cameras in cabins.
In total, 1,554 of the 1,809 drivers signed the document.
They argue that the work of drivers is already monitored by train recording systems, which collect data on speed, braking, and other operating parameters.
In addition, many locomotives are already equipped with cameras that monitor the track ahead of the train, a measure considered useful for safety.
Criticism of working conditions
Representatives of Slovakian mechanics say that investments in cameras should be replaced with measures to improve actual working conditions.
According to them, in some locomotives: Mechanics warn that ignoring the problems reported by staff could affect the stability of the railway sector.
the cabs do not have functional air conditioning in summer;
and in winter the doors are improvised sealed to reduce the cold.
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