For CSX, New Hazmat Education Train
Written by Marybeth Luczak, Executive Editor
CSX is expanding hazardous materials safety education across its 23-state network with a Responder Incident Training (RIT) train.
The new RIT train rolled into Fredericksburg, Va., earlier this month, allowing local first responders to complete hands-on exercises with the CSX Hazardous Materials team, according to the Class I railroad (pictured below).
The train not only includes high-tech equipment such as tank cars, but also a custom-built mobile classroom to help deliver tailored hazmat safety training for first responders as well as rail employees, customers and contractors, reported CSX (see video below). The railroad, which trains thousands of first responders annually, also offers classroom training in local firehouses, exercises and table-top drills, and web-based and self-study courses.
“CSX is excited to roll out our own customized fleet of rail training cars to educate emergency responders and government officials on how to safely respond to railroad emergencies,” CSX Director of Hazardous Materials Systems Chris Machenberg said. “Our goal is zero accidents or injuries. However, should an incident occur, we want to ensure first responders are best prepared to keep our communities safe.”
The RIT train’s home base is Jacksonville, Fla.
