Canadian government issues new rail safety regs

Canadian Transport Minister Lisa Raitt on Friday announced new rules aimed at further safeguarding communities located along rail lines.

The new measures introduce amendments under the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, Railway Safety Management System Regulations and Transportation Information Regulations.

The rules require 35 provincially regulated railroads and light-rail systems operating on federal track to develop and implement safety management systems. In addition, new "DOT-111" tank-car standards will be formalized, requiring thicker steel walls and other reinforcements to reduce the risk of spills on impact, and data reporting will be improved so railroads proactively identify and address safety risks before accidents happen, said Raitt in a press release.

The regulatory changes will help build a stronger safety culture among railroads, strengthen tank-car requirements and further reduce the risk of accidents, she said.

“Our government is committed to railway safety and the safe movement of dangerous goods. The upcoming regulations will further strengthen safety in Canada’s already robust transportation system," said Raitt.

Transport Canada will continue to work closely with various stakeholders — including railroads, shippers, municipalities, first responders and U.S. officials — to protect Canadian citizens' health and safety, she said.