CSX, Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency pact targets state's haz-mat traffic

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) on Monday announced it entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with CSX Transportation that will enable the agency to obtain information regarding the movement of hazardous materials in the state.

Under a three-year agreement, PEMA staff will be granted access to the CSX's computer network to monitor haz-mat rail movements in Pennsylvania. CSX personnel will train authorized PEMA staff to use the system.

"This agreement will further enhance our commitment to protecting public safety," said PEMA Director Glenn Cannon in a press release. "With direct access to the company’s information, it greatly increases [our] ability to prepare for and respond to rail incidents."

Along with the Hazardous Material Emergency Preparedness Grant Program, funding for specialized firefighting training and other state efforts, the agreement will help local communities increase their level of emergency preparedness, PEMA officials said.

A copy of the MOU can be viewed online under the "Forms and Documents" section of PEMA's homepage at www.pema.state.pa.us.