Fined for taking a toilet break - hmm, what next?
A Japanese train driver needed a toilet break and after taking one for around three minutes, gets fined!
We all have those moments of despair when we have a tummy ache or something worse (don't act like you don't know) and need to use the toilet. But what happens when you have a fast-paced job that doesn't always allow you to just pick up and take a toilet break when you need to?
This Japanese bullet train driver had to use the toilet and is now being fined because of it...
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The driver of the N700S high-speed train left the train unattended for a period of three minutes, with 160 passengers in the coaches. The 36-year-old driver left the cockpit under the supervision of the conductor, who was not trained to be in such a position.
The Shinkansen bullet train is known for its punctuality and when it arrived late at the stop, an investigation was warranted. The driver was said to have had an opportunity to stop the train at a nearby station so that he could ensue with a break, but chose not to, perhaps due to the embarrassment associated with his tummy situation.
The driver and the conductor are now facing disciplinary action, as much as the driver has apologised profusely for his inappropriate behaviour. (Business Insider)
"Running trains on time has almost become a culture in Japan. Though the high-speed Shinkansen do not require drivers to actually operate them as they are precision-controlled by the central command systems. The drivers occupy the cockpits to make minor tweaks to ensure a timely arrival, or manage the situation in case of a system failure. These high-speed trains can achieve a maximum speed of 360 km per hour on some routes." (News18)
If nothing else, at least we have learnt that when travelling to Japan we can definitely rest assured that we will arrive on time!
Watch the below video of a train that is said to be the fastest in the world in Japan.
Video Courtesy of YouTube
Image Courtesy of YouTube
