Railroad Safety Improvements and Challenges in the United States
In the wake of the East Palestine accident, railroads in the United States have stepped up efforts to enhance safety measures. Mr. Jefferies, a spokesperson for the industry, stated that the previous requirement for railroads to stop and remove a rail car if a wheel bearing’s temperature reached 200 degrees Fahrenheit has been revised to 170 degrees. This change comes in response to the East Palestine train incident, where the wheel bearing temperature reportedly reached 253 degrees, as detected by track-side equipment.
Union Pacific, the largest railroad in the United States, reported a 32 percent increase in accidents. This rise was attributed to factors beyond the railroad’s control, such as objects on the track. However, the company emphasized a decrease in “serious” derailments, which fell by 5 percent last year.
BNSF, the second-largest U.S. railroad owned by Warren E. Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, also experienced a 10 percent increase in accidents. Despite this, the company highlighted its top safety ranking in the country based on federal government measures, attributing accident reduction to improved training and technology.
Meanwhile, CSX, the third-largest railroad, reported a 31 percent increase in accidents. The company attributed these challenges to the hiring of numerous new employees during the pandemic. However, efforts to bolster training led to a notable drop in accidents in the fourth quarter of last year.
Overall, the performance of the five major railways in the United States last year would have been worse if not for significant safety improvements at Norfolk Southern. The company reported a 37 percent decrease in accidents on its main lines, highlighting progress in enhancing safety measures.
Historically, railways have been integral to the development and growth of the United States, playing a vital role in transportation and trade. However, ensuring railroad safety has been an ongoing challenge, with accidents and incidents posing significant risks to both passengers and cargo transportation.
As the industry continues to navigate safety challenges, it remains crucial for railroads to prioritize the well-being of passengers, employees, and the public while working towards continuous improvements in safety protocols and technologies.