Norfolk Southern trained 5,500 first responders in 2024

Norfolk Southern Railway trained more than 5,500 first responders across 20 cities through the Class I's Operation & Awareness Response (OAR) program in 2024.

NS created the program to train first responders, free of charge, on how to handle rail-related incidents. Training includes hands-on experience with multiple types of rail cars and equipment, and lessons on tank car identification, types of emergencies, and response strategies and tactics, NS officials said in a "Story Yard" article on the railroad's website. 

Since the launch of OAR in 2015, more than 51,000 first responders have participated in the training. 

“We’re proud to work alongside these dedicated local first responders, who are truly heroes in their communities, to ensure that they have the rail knowledge and applicable resources to protect the people they serve in the unlikely event of a rail emergency," said NS Director of Hazardous Materials Robert Wood.