Metal safety coils installed between New York City subway cars are causing injuries to Metropolitan Transportation Authority employees, the agency reported on Wednesday. The devices, which were added to keep passengers from falling between moving cars, have become a hazard for workers who service the trains.
MTA staff who perform routine maintenance, cleaning and inspections on the train cars have been struck or cut by the metal coils. The injuries range from minor abrasions to more serious lacerations, prompting concerns among the workforce about the safety of the equipment they must handle daily.
The safety coils were introduced as a preventative measure for riders, aiming to reduce the number of incidents where commuters accidentally slip through the gap between coupled cars. While the intention was to enhance passenger protection, the design places the coils within reach of personnel working on the exterior of the trains, increasing the likelihood of accidental contact.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has acknowledged the problem and indicated that it is reviewing the installation procedures and protective protocols for its employees. The agency emphasizes that the safety of both riders and staff remains a priority, and that any modifications to the equipment will be evaluated for effectiveness and risk.
The issue highlights a tension between passenger safety initiatives and the occupational safety of transit workers. As the MTA continues to operate one of the nation’s largest subway systems, it must balance the need for rider protection with the practical realities faced by its employees on the ground.
The situation is under ongoing assessment, and the MTA has not released a timeline for potential changes to the coil system. In the meantime, staff are being reminded to exercise caution when working near the devices, and additional training is being provided to mitigate further injuries.