The Associated Press reports that the Department of Transportation and the American Association of Railroads have agreed to adopt broad crude oil transportation safety standards in the wake of a recent string of accidents. According to the AP, trains carrying crude will travel more slowly through major cities, increase track inspections and improve emergency response planning along routes that carry trains moving up to 3 million gallons of oil. It is not yet known how the standards will be enforced.
The recent spate of crude-by-rail incidents, some of which were fatal and caused severe property damage, has resulted in increased scrutiny from lawmakers and calls for more rapid development of pipeline infrastructure. Rail carriers have been pressured to improve the durability of tank cars that carry crude. Some companies have pledged to enhance or replace older fleets that are more vulnerable to puncture.
Photo: Harvey Henkelmann
