FRA, NY inspectors complete latest round of crude-by-rail safety checks

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office announced yesterday that targeted inspections of 445 crude oil tank cars, 128 miles of track and 66 switches in the state have been completed.

Federal and state inspectors completed the examinations last week, during which they uncovered and addressed four critical defects and 91 non-critical defects, according to a press release issued by Cuomo's office. The inspections were ordered to ensure safety of crude-by-rail transportation in New York.

"These inspections are critical to helping ensure these rail networks remain safe and that New Yorkers can work, travel and live near them without anxiety," Cuomo said. "This partnership with the federal government and railroad companies is an essential piece in improving rail tracks and tank cars in virtually every corner of the state."

Inspection teams from the state's Department of Transportation and Federal Railroad Administration carried out the crude tank-car inspections at Canadian Pacific's Kenwood Yard in Albany and CSX Corp.'s Selkirk Yard in Selkirk and Frontier Yard in Buffalo. Inspectors focused on track, track hardware and tank car mechanical safety equipment, including wheels and brakes.

Additionally, the teams performed hazardous materials inspections to ensure equipment complies with regulations. Tank car inspection and pressure test dates also were examined.

For a summary of the inspection results, click on this link.