Ohio train derailment spurs urgent response from AAR over safety issues
February 3rd, a Norfolk Southern freight train derailed outside of East Palestine, Ohio resulting in a 38 rail car pile-up with eleven of those cars resulting in hazardous material spilling out. After lots of public outrage over the situation, The Association of American Railroads (AAR) is issuing a memorandum and adding that it is taking the incident very seriously.
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) is a trade association representing the interests of the major freight railroads operating in the United States, as well as some Canadian railroads. The AAR was established in 1934 and its purpose is to advocate for policies and initiatives that support a safe, efficient, and sustainable freight rail industry. Some of the specific functions of the AAR include advocating for policies that promote a strong and competitive freight rail industry, such as tax policies, labor regulations, and trade agreements. Additionally, the AAR develops and implements safety initiatives, standards, and best practices for the rail industry, including safety programs related to hazardous materials, train crew fatigue management, and technology-based safety improvements. Overall, the AAR serves as the voice of the freight rail industry in the United States, and its mission is to promote the growth and sustainability of this critical sector of the American economy.
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