Berlin – September 07, 2026 -- The German Fire Brigade Association (DFV) has published new technical guidance on grounding live overhead lines in rail zones, following DB InfraGO's decision to revoke existing voluntary agreements with fire departments nationwide.
DB InfraGO Cancels Prior Grounding Agreements With Fire Departments
Previous contractual arrangements allowing fire brigades to perform emergency grounding, known as "Bahnerdung," on Deutsche Bahn AG infrastructure have been withdrawn by the rail operator's emergency management unit. Fire department carriers and DB InfraGO, the infrastructure operator, must now negotiate new agreements based on updated regulations and revised training requirements.
New Rules Reflect Technical Upgrades and Training Changes at DB InfraGO
Stephan Peltzer, the committee member who authored the publication, said the shift stems from technical advancements in the rail sector and a revised approach to training "authorized persons" responsible for grounding procedures at the infrastructure operator. The changes affect how rail infrastructure companies and fire brigades coordinate on high-voltage safety during emergency responses.
Guidance Covers Six Core Areas for Emergency Responders
The document, produced by the joint technical committee "Deployment and Tactics of German Fire Brigades" -- a body combining DFV and the Working Group of Chiefs of German Professional Fire Brigades (AGBF Bund) -- addresses emergency preparedness for rail incidents, DB AG's emergency management framework, general hazards in rail operations, procedures for grounding live electrical overhead lines, and the discontinuation of prior DB AG/DB InfraGO regulations alongside the new framework replacing them.
DFV Vice President Dr. Frank Kämmer, who oversees the committee, said the recommendation is intended to inform fire department personnel of the updated conditions and requirements for grounding live rail installations. The publication is available for download through the DFV's official channels.