The Aerodynamic Effects of Passing Trains to Surrounding Objects and People

Book excerpt: Two safety issues are raised on the aerodynamic effects of a passing train on its surroundings. First, a high-speed train passing other trains on an adjacent track exerts aerodynamic pressure that can affect the structural integrity of window mount and glazing, and the stability of the railroad car being passed. Second, as a high-speed train passes train stations immediately adjacent to the platform without stopping, people and objects on these station platforms are exposed to strong airflow causing debris and objects to be blown about and people to potentially lose their balance. This safety issue also extends to railroad workers on trackside as a high-speed train passes.