Why do train drivers strike so much?
Why do train drivers strike so much? Why are rail workers striking? Unions say they want a pay offer reflecting the rising cost of living. But the rail industry is under pressure to save money, after the pandemic left a hole in its finances. The industry says changes to ways of working need to be agreed in order for pay to go up.
What do train drivers do all day?
Complying with professional and federal rules and regulations relating to train operation and safety. Monitoring the speed, air pressure and other operational measurements of the train. Using mechanical controls such as throttles and air brakes to control the speed and motion of the train.
How many hours do train drivers work?
With regular scheduled train services meaning a planned timetable, passenger Train Drivers work reasonably predictable shift patterns. On average, most operators work to a 35 hour week. Although some work more. A 35 hour week which is generally averaged out over the whole year, shift cycle or similar.
Will there be train strikes in September 2023?
Railway services, airport staff, train drivers, universities, and junior doctors are all set to go on strike during the month of September. The set of strikes comes shortly after RMT and ASLEF train strikes, junior doctors and airport ground workers went on strike in August.
Why are train drivers striking 2023?
RMT (the Rail, Maritime and Transport union) and ASLEF (The Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen) members are striking in an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions.
Why are there so many train strikes recently?
Why are rail workers striking? Unions say they want a pay offer reflecting the rising cost of living. But the rail industry is under pressure to save money, after the pandemic left a hole in its finances. The industry says changes to ways of working need to be agreed in order for pay to go up.
Are trains busy on strike days?
In addition to the disruption on strike days, trains on adjacent days may be affected. Trains on these days are also likely to be extremely busy due to passengers moving their journeys to avoid industrial action.
Will a railroad strike affect truck drivers?
Supply Squeezes If railroad workers went on strike, drayage freight truckers would lack the necessary equipment to handle the supply capacity of a freight train. With less space to transport goods via trucks, it would take longer to move the same amount of product.
When can rail workers strike again?
Under the law that controls rail labor, the unions can go back out on strike after Congress returns to session for five days.
How bad will a railroad strike be?
A potential strike could lead to $2 billion a day in lost economic output, according to the Association of American Railroads, which lobbies on behalf of rail companies. Freight railroads are responsible for carrying 40% of the nation's long-haul freight and a work stoppage could jeopardize these shipments.
Why do rail workers want to strike?
The rail unions are headed toward a strike over pay and ongoing grievances from members that the working conditions are grueling, and not conducive to a life off the job.
What did Biden do to rail workers?
After campaigning as the most pro-union presidential candidate in history, Biden signed into law a measure that makes a rail strike illegal.
What do train drivers earn?
As of Sep 26, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Train Driver in the United States is $17.76 an hour. While ZipRecruiter is seeing hourly wages as high as $28.61 and as low as $8.65, the majority of Train Driver wages currently range between $14.18 (25th percentile) to $19.23 (75th percentile) across the United States.
Why are there not more trains in the US?
While the US was a passenger train pioneer in the 19th century, after WWII, railways began to decline. The auto industry was booming, and Americans bought cars and houses in suburbs without rail connections. Highways (as well as aviation) became the focus of infrastructure spending, at the expense of rail.
How many dollars a day would it cost if the railroad workers go on strike?
The railroads, which haul about 40% of the nation's freight each year, estimated that a rail strike would cost the economy $2bn a day in a report issued earlier this fall.