BNSF News

S-28.12 Weapons

While on duty or on railroad property, employees must not have firearms or other deadly weapons, including knives with a blade longer than three inches. Employees may possess these weapons only if they are authorized to use them to perform their duties, or if they are given special permission by the designated manager.

1. Know how to use the gun safely.
Before handling any firearm, learn how it operates. Know its basic parts, how to safely open and close the action and remove any ammunition from the receiver or magazine. Remember, a gun's mechanical safety device is never foolproof.

2. Be sure the gun is safe to operate.
Just like other tools, firearms need regular maintenance to remain operable. Regular cleaning and proper storage are a part of the gun's general upkeep. If there is any question concerning a gun's ability to function, a knowledgeable gunsmith should look at it.

3. Wear eye and ear protection as appropriate.
Guns are loud and the noise can cause hearing damage. They can also emit debris and hot gas that could cause eye injury. Shooting glasses and hearing protectors should be worn by shooters and spectators.

4. Never use alcohol or over-the-counter, prescription or other drugs likely to impair mental or physical functions before or while shooting.

5. Store guns so they are not accessible to unauthorized persons.
Many factors must be considered when deciding where and how to store guns. Remember, most gunshot injuries happen after children discover loaded guns at home. Lock your guns and ammunition separately, and hide the keys where children can't reach them. Gun-storage devices and locking devices that attach directly to the gun are available. Realize, however, that mechanical locking devices, such as the mechanical safeties built into guns, can fail and should not be used as a substitute for safe gun handling and the observance of all gun safety rules. Before transporting firearms be aware that you are responsible for the security of those firearms. Please take it seriously because, during hunting season, thieves watch for opportunities to take guns.

6. Be aware that certain types of guns and many shooting activities require additional safety precautions.