PREVIEW

Norfolk Southern Joins Federal Pilot Program for Workers to Report Safety Concerns. Some engineers and conductors at Norfolk Southern will have access to a federal system to anonymously report safety concerns without fear of retaliation. 'The Independent' reports that Norfolk Southern is the first of six major freight railroads to join the Federal Railroad Administration's program. So far, the one-year pilot program is limited to members of just two unions based in Atlanta, Georgia, Elkhart, Indiana, and Roanoke, Virginia. The agreement to participate in the program comes just days before the one-year anniversary of the fiery East Palestine, Ohio derailment. The disastrous crash prompted temporary evacuations and has cost over $1 billion to cleanup hazardous chemicals that were spilled and subsequently burned. 'The Independent' reports that the derailment has also given rise to lingering questions regarding the long-term health consequences for people living in the area. "Norfolk Southern has taken a good first step, and it’s time for the other Class I railroads to back up their talk with action and make good on their promises to join this close call reporting system and keep America’s rail network safe." Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Transportation Secretary, via 'The Independent'. Major rail companies have resisted joining the new federal reporting system, claiming their own internal reporting systems are sufficient. According to Norfolk Southern CEO Alan Shaw, the railroad's decision to join the new reporting program will hopefully set an example for the rest of the industry. "NS is proud to partner with our labor leaders and FRA to make another industry-leading advancement in safety." Alan Shaw, Norfolk Southern CEO, via 'The Independent’. THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT