UP set employee safety performance record in 2014

Last year, Union Pacific Railroad achieved the best annual employee safety performance in its history. Employees achieved a 0.98 reportable injury rate, surpassing the previous record set in 2012.

The reportable rate dropped 11 percent from 2013's 1.10 rate, "demonstrating a solid commitment to reducing injuries and generating progress toward the company's commitment to zero injuries," UP officials said in a press release. The reportable injury rate is the total number of injuries reportable to the Federal Railroad Administration per 200,000 worker hours, which is equivalent to 100 employees working a full year.

The three keys to ongoing safety improvements are a commitment to risk reduction through technology, process improvement and capital investments; all workers embracing the railroad's "Courage to Care" pledge; and the employee-led Total Safety Culture initiative, said Bob Grimaila, UP's vice president of safety, security and environment.

"Together, these activities engage employees to help keep safety top of mind for seasoned employees and prepare newer employees to be safe in the railroad work environment," he said.