UP 5385 Southbound; Crew Change at Dunsmuir, California

[chakdeychar]

They carry big baggage with them and big lunch boxes. How long does a pair of crew have to stay with the train ? Do they stay on duty by the hours or by locations untill one pair of crew gets relieved by another ?

[C60AC]

@chakdeychar A crew can work a maximum of 12 hours, but they are usually relieved at designated crew change points. So it is random as to just how long a crew will work. Most of the time they will not get in a full 12 hours, but there are times where they will go "dead on the law" and chief dispatch has to order a ride for them for a non designated area.

[chakdeychar]

@C60AC Many thanks 4 the info. I always wondered about train crews' work hours as I am a long haul trucker bound by log book, burried under ever-increasing DOT regulations. And yes I have a nasty dispatcher too and have to go "dead on the law" (I like the way you put it...lol) quite often.

Wherever a train passes I look at it like it's my first time (and my last), and start to wonder if those fellas behind the tinted windows do log books like me. I am sure its easier to run trains than truck

[GregInCalifornia]

Great location & shot!