"Union Pacific Faces Alarming Number of Defects, Federal Inspectors Discover"

Federal inspectors discovered an alarming number of defects in Union Pacific's locomotives and railcars at the world's largest railyard in Nebraska this summer. The railroad was reluctant to address the problems, prompting concerns about rail safety. The defect rates found by inspectors were twice the national average, but the specific nature of the defects was not disclosed. The Federal Railroad Administrator expressed concern over Union Pacific's poor compliance and questioned whether recent layoffs had left the company understaffed for necessary repairs. Union Pacific maintains that safety is a priority and is reviewing the concerns raised by the Federal Railroad Administration.