The introduction of the Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) is becoming a revolution for freight transport in Europe, providing a long-term competitive advantage. However, beyond increasing efficiency and safety, this innovation also brings new benefits for those working in this field, easing their daily routines. The profession of a shunter is a challenging task that demands significant physical effort and is performed under extreme weather conditions at all times of day and night. In the future, this profession will become more diverse in its tasks and, in terms of physical exertion, safer and simpler. Currently, trains are manually coupled, involving lifting and transferring the heavy 20-kilogram coupling hook between the wagons. DAC automates this process, making it significantly more efficient and safer.
ÖBB employees connected to DAC and selected stakeholders, in cooperation with “WKO Fachverband Schienenbahnen” and “Verband Privatgüterwagen-Interessenten,” had the opportunity to witness these changes firsthand on October 4th in Vienna and October 12th in Fürnitz. The primary focus was on mutual exchange of experience, DAC demonstrations, and open discussions on current topics related to DAC with experts from the ÖBB DAC Corporate Program. Despite the numerous process innovations brought by DAC, it became clear that motivated individuals will still be needed in this field, and the professions of shunter and wagon master will become more attractive. Particularly gratifying was the great interest and the shared, honest exchange on various topics related to work safety, technological development, schedules, and much more.
Image source: https://www.railcargo.com/en/news/dac-is-introduced-tooebb-employees