NS peforms route risk analysis on trains carrying:

• More than 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) in a single carload of a divisoin 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 explosive
• A quantity of a material poisonous by inhalation in a single bulk packaging
• A highway route-controlled quantity of a class 7 (radioactive) material
• A high-hazard flammable train (HHFT)***
• A continuous block of 20 or more tank cars loaded with a flammable liquid.
• 35 or more tank cars throughout the train loaded with a flammable liquid or flammable gas

These assessments deploy an analytical tool developed by the industry and the federal government that uses 27 risk factors, including population density along a route, local emergency response capability, track quality, and signal systems. Based on results of these analyses, Norfolk Southern has diverted a number of these key crude trains to avoid certain metropolitan areas.

RapidSOS and Norfolk Southern’s solution, which is free to public safety agencies across the U.S., provides first responders quick and easy access to cargo and hazardous material information, enables mutual aid requests, and provides ongoing training. The feature builds on similar programs available in the industry and evolves communication in a way that better integrates first responders, the way they work and how they communicate. https://rapidsos.com/our-latest/norfolk-southen-new-solution-makes-train-incident-response-safer/

Reduced the maximum speed of key crude trains to 40 mph from 50 mph in places designated by Homeland Security officials as High Threat Urban Areas. In April 2015, the railroad reduced the maximum speed for all trains with 20 or more carloads of any flammable liquids, including crude oil or ethanol, to 40 mph in High Threat Urban Areas. The company routinely conducts operating rules checks to ensure continued compliance with this speed.

Made at least one additional internal rail inspection above what is required by federal rules on main lines where key crude trains operate. In addition, the company conducts at least two inspections using a track geometry train to identify potential track safety issues.