Transport Canada approves changes to rail operating rules

Canada's Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra has announced that Transport Canada approved changes to the Canadian rail operating rules that involve uncontrolled movement of rail equipment.

The rules now prescribe:

• when air brakes must be used during switching operations to ensure a consistent approach across a railroad's system;
• measures to ensure that stationary equipment is secured during switching operations to prevent uncontrolled movements; and
• speed restrictions when switching is conducted with a remote-controlled locomotive.

The changes are the result of a September 2020 ministerial order that required Canada's rail industry to adopt new practices designed to improve safety and prevent uncontrolled movements while switching, and to ensure that equipment is properly secured.

The rule changes build on the measures that Transport Canada has already taken to reduce the number of uncontrolled rail equipment movements.