NEW! Federal - Government announces measures for rail safety in Canada
On April 3, the Minister of Transport announced measures to reduce train derailments through three different Ministerial Orders directed to railway companies. The three new Ministerial Orders will come into effect immediately and will remain in place until permanent rule changes are approved.
The new Ministerial Order requires speed restrictions for key trains and higher-risk key trains.
Key trains have one or more loaded tank cars of dangerous goods that are toxic by inhalation; or contain 20 or more tank cars containing dangerous goods.
Higher-risk key trains carry crude oil or liquefied petroleum gases in a continuous block of 20 or more tank cars or 35 or more tank cars dispersed throughout the train.
In addition to the speed restrictions, this Order also directs companies to address the management of their track maintenance and inspection.
The second and third Ministerial Orders were issued to direct railway companies to update the current industry rules governing track safety, and the movement of dangerous goods in Canada. These Orders will ensure these measures to reduce train speeds and improve maintenance and inspection practices become a permanent part of safer railway operations in Canada.
The three new Ministerial Orders will come into effect immediately and will remain in place until permanent rule changes are approved.
The CPA will continue to collaborate with government to ensure these measures are reasonable and that carriers focus on safety to allow for the efficient distribution of propane.
