A downward-pointing steel guard attached to a locomotive or railcar bogie, positioned inches above the railhead. It acts as a final line of defense to sweep aside rocks, ice, or branches that bypassed the main pilot or snowplow. By knocking away small obstructions, it prevents foreign objects from getting crushed under the wheel tread and causing a derailment.
Write up the lead truck on the inspection report; the left lifeguard is bent inward and rubbing the rail.
Also heard as
- guard iron
Related terms
Cowcatcher
A wedge-shaped deflector mounted on the front of a locomotive to clear obstacles from the track.
Bogie
A wheeled chassis or framework attached under a rail vehicle to provide support, suspension, and guidance along the track.
Derailment
An incident where rolling stock wheels drop off the head of the rail.