Li Bin prepares to start work at a train station in Baoding. (Photo by Zhang Yu/China Daily)
"I need to drive continuously for four to eight hours, during which I can only drink a little water because we're not allowed to leave our position," the 45-year-old said.
While a train is in motion, drivers need to be highly focused on the track ahead to ensure there is no debris or other blockages. If they spot anything, they need to stop the train immediately to avoid an accident.
Drivers also need to constantly communicate with their deputies about signals and other real-time updates.
In addition to the tough working conditions, Li Bin said he also appreciates his mother's initial concerns about family life.
"No matter whether it's a workday, weekend or holiday, we must be at our posts when the shift starts," he said, adding that as he regularly works nights, much of his time at home is spent sleeping.
"I can't help with the housework often or spend as much time with my wife and 17-year-old daughter as a normal office worker could."
Hao Ruimin, his mother, had a similar experience when her husband was working as a train driver. "When I married his father, I felt like I was the only one who was supporting the family and looking after the children," she said.
It looks like Li Bin can be more relaxed about the next generation, though. His daughter has said she is unlikely to become a train driver, but she still hopes to work with locomotives one day, to keep the family tradition alive.
