New York completes latest round of crude-oil tank car, rail inspections

New York State's latest round of targeted crude-oil tank car and rail inspections uncovered more than 40 tank car and rail defects across the state, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday.

Last week, state and federal inspectors examined 541 crude oil tank cars, 207 miles of track and 80 switches. The inquiry uncovered four critical defects and 38 non-critical defects. The inspection teams took immediate action to correct and repair the defects, according to a press release issued by Cuomo's office.

Inspectors from the Federal Railroad Administration and New York State Department of Transportation surveyed crude oil tankers at CSX Corp.'s rail yards in Selkirk and Buffalo, and Canadian Pacific's Kenwood Yard in Albany.

Inspectors examined track, track hardware and tank car mechanical safety equipment, including wheels and brakes. The teams also performed hazmat inspections to ensure equipment — valves, valve closures and placards — is line with regulations. In addition, they checked tank car inspection and pressure test dates.

The inspections are part of a series of steps that the state implemented last year in an effort to improve public safety and reduce potential dangers associated with rail transportation of fossil fuels across New York.

"We will continue to work with our partners at the state and federal level to strengthen rail safety standards, increase response times and improve emergency preparedness," said Cuomo.