New Rule Ensures Quick Hazardous Chemical Disclosure After Train Derailments

Norfolk Southern locomotives are moved in Norfolk Southern's Conway Terminal, June 17, 2023, in Conway, Pa. The goal of a new federal rule finalized Monday, June 24, 2024 is ensuring first resp

A new federal rule was finalized on Monday to ensure that first responders can quickly access information about hazardous chemicals on a train following a derailment. The rule comes in response to past incidents, such as the Norfolk Southern derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, where firefighters faced challenges in determining the appropriate response due to a lack of immediate information.

First responders need to know the specific hazardous materials on a train to access the government's official guidebook for proper protective gear and firefighting tools. This knowledge also influences the size of evacuation zones needed to protect the public.

The rule was introduced by the Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration agency to address the risks posed by the transportation of various hazardous materials across the country. The agency emphasized the importance of equipping responders with essential information to safeguard both emergency personnel and nearby residents.

The National Transportation Safety Board is set to hold a final hearing on the East Palestine derailment to determine the cause of the crash and recommend preventive measures. While train crews traditionally carried cargo lists in their locomotives, the chaos following a derailment often hinders immediate access to this information.

First responders require specific hazardous material information for proper protective gear and evacuation planning.

Rule addresses challenges faced by first responders in determining appropriate response post-derailment.

Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration introduced the rule to enhance safety during hazmat incidents.

To address this issue, the largest freight railroads developed the AskRail app a decade ago to provide quick access to cargo details for firefighters. Regulators are pushing for expanded access to the app, including in 911 centers, to ensure timely information dissemination to first responders.

Additionally, smaller railroads are now required to have plans in place to promptly provide cargo details to local fire departments. This includes simple measures like having the fire chief's contact information readily available. The aim is to enhance preparedness and response capabilities in hazmat incidents.

The recent rule underscores the importance of equipping first responders with critical information to enhance safety measures and mitigate risks in the event of a train derailment. While the impact of this rule on past incidents remains uncertain, the focus is on improving emergency response protocols and ensuring the safety of communities near railroad tracks.