Transport Canada takes action on rail security, locomotive emission regs

Transport Canada recently proposed new regulations aimed at lowering the risk of terrorism on the Canadian rail system.

Published in the Canada Gazette last month, the regulations would apply to freight trains that transport dangerous goods such as flammable or radioactive materials.

The proposed Transportation of Dangerous Goods by Rail Security Regulations would require all railroads to develop a plan for security awareness training for all employees; additional training for employees with duties related to the security plan and security of dangerous goods; and appropriate measures to address assessed risks.

Additionally, railroads would have to conduct security inspections of certain rail vehicles containing dangerous goods; report potential security threats to the Canadian Transport Emergency Center; and employ a rail security coordinator.

Meanwhile, Transport Canada already has issued new regulations aimed at reducing locomotive emissions. Developed under the Railway Safety Act and released last week, the regulations stipulate mandatory emission standards and reduced idling.

Complementing the new regulations, 10 research projects at Canadian universities will receive funding under the Clean Rail Academic Grant Program, which supports academic research on technologies and practices that can reduce air emissions in the rail sector. Each research project will receive a $25,000 grant.

"Our clean transportation efforts will achieve emission reductions, improve human health and help protect the environment, while supporting clean growth," said Canadian Transport Minister Marc Garneau in a press release.