So it looks as though the train engineer was sleeping

[malaise]

He recently changed shifts and was clearly not accustomed to this early morning routine.

Frightening indeed.

[HappyMe]

1. I heard that this morning.

You would think they would be more careful when changing people's shifts. It takes at least a week to get used to different sleep/awake cycles.

[LisaLynne]

2. I also found it concerning that they can work 16 hour shifts if ...

they get a four hour break in the middle. That's not enough time to actually get any sleep. The lack of sleep seriously hinders performance. It's been of concern in the medical field for some time now (interns and residents not getting enough sleep and working really long shifts).

[TheCowsCameHome]

3. Railroaders experience some of the most erratic work hours

in any occupation.


It's a wonder more of this doesn't happen.

[Brickbat]

4. Heartbreaking.

Fatigue is so poorly managed on railroads.

[countryjake]

5. So sad...

This morning, they said that the engineer was distraught over what happened.

Who could live with that? I feel sorrow for all involved in this frightening tragedy.