Canada OKs rule changes to improve track safety

Transport Canada has approved changes to the federal rules governing track safety.

The changes are the result of a ministerial order that was issued in 2020 to address major risks that could cause derailments due to the condition of rail infrastructure, according to a news release.

Railroads must comply with the federal safety requirements when inspecting and maintaining track infrastructure. The new changes require railroads to:

• Put in place a certification process for employees who inspect tracks and supervise the restoration of tracks to make sure their personnel have the proper knowledge and experience to carry out their safety duties;
• Establish a process to ensure that track maintenance and repair work meets regulatory requirements and the railway companies' own standards to improve accountability; and
• Develop and implement comprehensive plans to manage rail wear and the condition of the rail surface that are to be approved by a professional engineer to improve track integrity.

The rule changes are part of a broader strategy to strengthen rail safety in Canada and respond to findings in the Auditor General's February 2021 followup audit on rail safety, Transport Canada officials said.

"These changes … will help ensure improved inspection and maintenance practices become a permanent part of safer railway operations in Canada. They demonstrate our government's commitment to directly address the Auditor General's recent findings, and mitigate the key risks facing Canada's rail network," said Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra.