Network
To keep our network strong and traffic flowing safely, we invest heavily in track repair and replacement of rail, ties and bridges.
BNSF has a longstanding and broad-based risk-reduction program that addresses operational safety across our network for
all types of freight. We have implemented new, more restrictive safety and operating practices for transporting crude oil
and ethanol to build on that strong foundation, including lower speeds, secure routing of trains, increased track inspections,
additional trackside safety warning technology, and increased community emergency response training and planning. We are also
working aggressively with the petroleum industry and other tank car owners to ensure new, stronger tank cars take to the rails
as soon as possible. These will be built with thicker steel shells, extra protective head shields, thermal insulation and enhanced
pressure release valves.
Technology
New technologies that are keeping our network safe:
− BNSF has been a pioneer in the testing and development of positive train control technologies that act as a safety
overlay to help reduce the potential for train accidents. BNSF’s PTC system is under construction across 9,400 miles
of our network in 21 states.
− BNSF Railway was named to
InformationWeek
magazine’s list of the top 500 information technology innovators in 2013
for implementation of a mobile, land-based tool that uses lasers to capture thousands of measurements per second of
track and related assets for precise monitoring and enhanced safety.
− We are adding more trackside safety technology along our track to detect defects or problems before they can cause
a train derailment.
− Automated gates for trucks to enter and exit some of our largest intermodal facilities include a biometric driver
identification system and digital cameras to record images of containers, chassis and tractors. The technology
helps increase security while improving throughput and reducing truck idling and emissions.
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