Tag

Track Safety

All articles tagged with #track safety

transportation2 years ago•6 min saved

"Montana Train Derailment Report Spurs Demand for Automated Track Detection Systems"

Federal investigators have recommended that major freight railroads equip every locomotive with autonomous sensors to detect track flaws following a fatal Amtrak derailment in Montana. However, the cost and effectiveness of these sensors are still uncertain, and rail unions argue that they should not replace human inspectors. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report blamed BNSF railroad for the crash but noted that even with more frequent track inspections, the severity of the problems may not have been noticed without technology to enhance inspections. The installation of sensors on the tens of thousands of locomotives in the fleet would require a significant investment. Railroads have already spent millions voluntarily developing technology to improve safety, but regulators are considering drafting rules for automated inspection sensors.

via The Associated Press|

#autonomous-sensors #national-transportation-safety-board #railroads

transportation2 years ago•4 min saved

MBTA Struggles to Lift Green Line Speed Restrictions Amidst Crisis.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has not provided any updates on how it misplaced or failed to create documentation to verify the safety of its tracks, which led to a 25 mph speed restriction across the subway system. The MBTA has been inspecting tracks for defects and lifting speed restrictions where possible, but commutes continue to be unreliable. The Director of Maintenance of Way job, responsible for track safety, appears to have been vacant since late last year. Governor Maura Healey is asking the Legislature for $20 million in funding for the MBTA to better recruit and retain employees to meet its needs and deliver safe, reliable service across the system.

via The Boston Globe|

#investigation #mbta #speed-restrictions