NTSB opens public docket in 2024 MARTA worker injury case

The National Transportation Safety Board last week opened the public docket into its investigation of an Oct. 19, 2024, accident involving a Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) employee, who was seriously injured while performing maintenance on train approach lights.

The employee was struck by a MARTA train while conducting maintenance work on the train approach lights about 280 feet north of a tunnel exit in between the Arts Center and Lindbergh Center stations in Atlanta. The employee's leg was amputated below the knee, according to the NTSB's preliminary report.

At the time of the accident, two employees were actively engaged in repairs alongside the watchman lookout. A fourth employee was in the train control room preparing to de-energize a relay to help identify the malfunctioning lights and possible oncoming trains.

While on scene, NTSB investigators inspected equipment, signals and track; performed sight-distance observations; and reviewed inward- and outward-facing image recorders, event recorders, radio communications and surveillance cameras. The NTSB also reviewed MARTA’s policies and procedures and completed interviews with the train operator and maintenance crew.

The NTSB’s investigation is ongoing. Future investigative activity will focus on roadway worker protections, MARTA policies and procedures.