A new federal rule finalized Monday will give fire fighters and other first responders critical information about the hazardous materials being transported through their communities.
The Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) rule requires railroads to transmit information to first responders regarding any hazardous materials on board as soon as they become aware of an accident.
“Fire fighters are all-hazard responders, often first to arrive at incidents like train derailments,” said General President Edward Kelly. “Getting fire fighters and rescue workers the information they need in an emergency helps us mitigate further risk, protect the community, and stay safe on the job.”
The change is part of a series of rail transit reforms initiated after a Norfolk Southern train carrying hazardous materials derailed in East Palestine, Ohio early last year.
While 11 tank cars burned in the incident, it was nearly two hours before fire fighters were alerted to what chemicals and hazardous substances were on board the trains.
“Getting fire fighters and rescue workers the information they need in an emergency helps us mitigate further risk, protect the community, and stay safe on the job.”
General president edward a. kelly
The DOT heard “first-hand from fire fighters” that responded to East Palestine about the need for future improvements to hazmat reporting, said PHMSA Deputy Administrator Tristian Brown. “This information will ensure the heroes that are responding to an incident can prepare for what they will encounter instead of waiting until after they get on scene to try to access this vital information.”
PHMSA’s new rule will prevent these delays by requiring railroads to document what materials are being transported and where they’re located on the train before departure. Information about the train’s starting point and destination, an emergency point of contact, and additional emergency response data must also be provided.
Fire fighters in the U.S. responded to more than 1.1 million calls involving hazardous materials or conditions in 2021, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Through its Hazmat Training Programs, the IAFF is committed to ensuring all fire fighters are prepared with the right knowledge and tools to properly address these dangerous incidents. The IAFF also worked closely with the Department of Transportation and PHMSA to develop this rule and ensure it provided the necessary information for fire fighters.
“The IAFF is committed to pushing for the reforms needed to protect the public and our members from hazardous materials emergencies,” Kelly said.
